29 Stantec Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Stantec Inc. interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Part of our responsibility in consulting in the construction industry is overseeing a budget. What experience do you have in managing a construction budget?
How to Answer
Working with clients at Stantec, you'll have the opportunity to work with them on many aspects of their project budget. Some clients will set their own total budget and you'll have to work around that budget to make it work. Others will look to you as the consultant to set the most cost-effective, yet realistic, budget possible. Talk about the experiences you have in working with a budget and make sure that you pinpoint your step by step approach to budgeting projects.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As a current project manager, I am tasked with both planning a budget for upcoming projects as well as managing budgets throughout the length of a project. During my time as a general contractor, I learned to do's and dont's of managing a strict budget all the way through. I learned that keeping detailed records of every cost of a project versus what was budgeted was very important. I also learned that communicating with my team on progress towards budget goal was very important as well. In this consultant role, I would feel very comfortable in helping clients set and achieve their budgets."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If hired for this role with Stantec, you can rest assured that my comfort and ability in managing large scale budgets will greatly impact clients here. I am thorough in my budget planning skills by taking the time to research costs and getting bids for services that will be subcontracted. During the build, I pride myself on my organization to track all costs and reconcile all costs against the budget."
2. Part of our work here at Stantec entails obtaining buy-in from clients on energy conservation. How would you sell energy conservation ideas to clients?
How to Answer
As Stantec moves into the future, part of the work that they do will be selling companies on the need to be more energy conscious and efficient. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear your tactics for educating clients on the importance of sustainability in their operations. The reality is that many clients don't have energy conservation at the top of their minds and your job will be to convince them otherwise. Be sure to speak passionately about this aspect of the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can probably already tell from our conversations so far, I am very passionate about sustainable energy and the need for every organization and person to keep that in the front of their mind in all of their efforts. I would approach clients with statistical data that proves the positive facts that sustainability projects can achieve. I understand that the clients here at Stantec are driven by data and I would be able to deliver that to them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Being a firm believer that utilizing energy on the earth in a wise way is the right thing to do, my approach with clients here at Stantec would be to take an educational approach that is empathetic to the environment and even their own pocketbooks. What most organizations don't realize is that while costs up front can sometimes be a little higher to implement energy savings programs, it doesn't take long for initial costs to be negated due to cost savings down the road."
3. If you are hired for this position here at Stantec, what do you think the biggest hurdle for you would be from the start?
How to Answer
For this question, you can showcase your research that you've done on both Stantec and the role you are interviewing for by being upfront and honest about what you feel would be the biggest learning curve for you if hired for the position and giving your plan for how you would approach this hurdle. In your answer, make sure that you highlight your skills and abilities in making a molehill out of a mountain on your way to success in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, most of my career experience is in the food industry. If fortunate enough to be hired for this position, the biggest area for learning for me would be the finance side of other industries like technology, telecommunications and healthcare. From day one, I would begin by thoroughly research the clients here at Stantec and speaking with as many industry experts that I know through business networking. While learning the ins and outs of other industries is the biggest learning curve for me, I see it as a great opportunity for me to become more proficient and effective in the work that I'd be doing for you."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"While this may sound funny to you at first, I think the biggest challenge for me from the start will be adapting to the great corporate lifestyle and culture here at Stantec. When I saw this position being open for applicants and I did my research, I was extremely excited to hear about the flexibility and openness to the ideas of your staff members. I've been working for six years in an environment that is very opposite of an open culture for new ideas and for me personally, it will feel foreign for me to bring new ideas to the team here and have them be accepted."
4. In your point of view, what environmental issue will require the most attention in ten years?
How to Answer
As you come to Stantec to interview, your interviewer has a pretty good understanding of your skills and abilities that you'll bring to the table by looking at your past work history and speaking to references. For this question, your interviewer is looking to hear your philosophical view on what you believe is the key environmental issue in ten years. Be sure to speak openly and honestly with what you feel is the key issue and focus your answer on why you believe it is important and give some ideas with how you feel it can be monitored and fixed.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"To me, the availability of quality water on our planet will continue to be a major issue and if desperate measures aren't taken, it will continue to worsen as we move forward. Water is one of the key elements of survival in the human race and that's why I've dedicated a lot of my effort in my career towards wastewater treatment using nanotechnology."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I think to truly answer this question and all of the issues that face our field moving forward, we have to look at overpopulation of the planet and how we will deal with pollution, water and natural resource issues. Each year, global industrialization and expansion creates less and less natural areas on the globe and resources like forests are wiped out on a regular basis. There are many theories to tackling this issue and more research and education of the general public will be important."
5. Being successful in consulting and working here at Stantec requires the ability to work effectively with Type A personalities. What are your experiences in working with this personality and how did you make the relationships a success?
How to Answer
To first understand this question, it is important that you know that Type A personalities are exemplified by being competitive, motivated, organized and goal driven, among many other traits. These traits often lead to success in high level roles within organizations and your chances of working with this personality type are high. Think of a time you worked with a typical Type A personality and explain the methods you used to ensure that you had a sound and successful working relationship. Make sure that your interview walks away knowing that you can work effectively with difficultly driven individuals with high expectations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For the last six years, I have worked under your prototypical type A personality as my director. Being a self admitted type B, being under my new director was difficult at first. For me to be successful under her and for our relationship to flourish, I learned quickly that she liked me to regularly communicate timelines for projects and give updates when necessary as she was very time driven. As well, small talk and getting to know me personally wasn't a priority so our communications to this day are pretty succinct and to the point. In this role, I would feel very comfortable with working with high level type A's because of my firsthand experience."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If you haven't been able to tell during my interview so far, I am a type A personality myself. My personality has helped me become very successful as a Financial Analyst. Having had formal training in the different personality types, I know that I need to take a meticulous approach when working with other type A personalities. My current team is loaded with type A's and regular communication is key in ensuring that expectations are clear and timelines are being met. If hired for this position, I would know my place in working with leaders from clients and I can easily be both cognizant of my approach and have the ability to put my desire to be in the lead aside with them when needed."
6. Talk about a time that you utilized a creative solution to help with an environmental issue on the job. What resources did you use to help make the creative solution a reality?
How to Answer
As an environmental engineer/expert, being creative and innovative should be a part of your soul and DNA. For this question, your interviewer will be looking for your ability to use education and/or research to come up with a creative solution to an issue. Be sure to speak in detail about the steps you took to put a creative plan into action and don't forget to talk about final results as well.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"During my time working for the state of New Jersey, I was tasked with water cleanup projects to help save natural lakes and ponds that were subject to major pollution from nearby factories. To first help sustain life in the waterways, I researched and attending some training on biofiltration systems. With the training I underwent, I utilized a strain of cabbage in the ponds that effectively filtered and destroyed many of the VOC's in the ponds. This allowed life in the waters to thrive while we searched for more solutions on the contaminants."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Last year, I worked hand in hand with mechanical and design engineers on new wind turbines that would dramatically decrease the killing of birds and bats in the areas where wind farms currently existed. I utilized my knowledge of bird flight patterns and flight control to help convince the team that vertical turbines were the best route to take. While a little more costly to produce and get up and running, the lessened effect on the local ecosystems were well worth the efforts."
7. Talk about some of the safety related projects you've been involved in during your time in the industry. What safety related perspectives would you be able to bring to the clients here at Stantec?
How to Answer
A constant in the transportation industry has always been to make safety a top priority. As technology and innovation has greatly changed over time, safety procedures and processes have also greatly changed. To hear that you will have a continual eye gazing at safety with their clients, your interviewer is looking to hear about a project that you worked on that centered around safety. On top of you example, talk high level about your safety philosophy and how you'll help bring that to the clients of Stantec.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"During my time working in the highway and road construction industry, I've been a part of some great design implementations to make roads safer. By utilizing detailed traffic studies/forecasts and animated 3D design, I've been a part of the design of many roundabout applications that take away all dangers of collisions at busy intersections. In my mind, eliminating the risk of head on and t-bone type collisions is a top priority to help save lives and I'd bring this philosophy when working with clients here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"During my years in the rail industry, highway crossing was always a top concern when building new lines or re-routing existing lines. To design and build things from the safest place possible, a team effort was always necessary. I have worked with civil engineers and executives of short rail lines to create lines that make sense from both a logistical and safety point of view so it is a win-win situation for everyone involved, including the general public. It is very easy for some to lose sight of the general public, but I never do in my work and I would see to it that no client would either."
8. At Stantec, you will have the opportunity to work with high level executives and leaders from the companies we contract with. What experience do you have in working with people at these levels?
How to Answer
As a business advisory and consulting firm, Stantec works with Managers, Directors, CEO's, CFO's, CAO's and leaders with other titles on all of our projects. Your role will likely involve working closely with these leaders. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable in working with the leadership team of the organization's clients by having you talk about your experience. Make sure that the examples you provide include some details on how you worked effectively to get the job done with the leaders you worked with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work directly under our Chief Financial Officer and sit on a couple of different committees that our Chief Executive Officer is on. Under the direction of my CFO, we have a great working relationship. I am comfortable approaching him at any moment with questions or to bring forward new ideas. He is aware of my strengths and respects my opinions on matters in my wheelhouse, so he never hesitates to come to me with important things. I think the keys to our strong relationship are the respect we show for each other and our open lines of communication."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with employees at all levels of the organizations that I've worked with. To me, working effectively with anyone requires a personal touch and a respectful approach. Whether I work with front line sales staff or members of the C-Suite, I take the time to get to know the person, their job and how I can best be of help to them in my role. This approach really helped me build a relationship with a Sales Executive that a few of my colleagues had struck out with in recent interactions."
9. Being successful in the consulting industry requires adaptability and the ability to learn a business fast. What would be your approach to help you learn the ins and outs of a new client?
How to Answer
Stantec contracts with businesses in different industries for their services and it is likely that your job would require you to learn the fine details of each business that you would work with. Demonstrate your ability to be flexible by giving examples of times you've had to do this during your career. As well, describe the approach that you would take to get the know the businesses you would be working with so you can apply your knowledge and expertise toward helping them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've been in corporate training and education for over ten years. In my current role, I have to use similar techniques working with different departments to try and tailor programs that meet their specific needs. I feel that my current approach of hosting an intake meeting with leaders would be effective in a consulting role with external customers. The current intake meetings that I lead are an opportunity for me to ask questions and learn as much as I can about my customers. In turn, it is an opportunity for me to lay the groundwork for the project and set expectations. Do you see this as an effective approach for this role?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in quality roles for most of my career in both the private and public sectors, I think my career experiences have shaped me well for this role. Transitioning to a consultative role would definitely be a transition for me and the biggest transition will be this need to work in many different industries. For me, researching clients, their business and their industry will be the first step to my approach in learning about them. I want to make a great first impression when I am face to face with a new client and that first impression starts with my knowledge. Then, my openness and ability to communicate would take over when I am working directly with clients. I know the right questions to ask for laying out quality initiative projects and I know the right things to educate clients on."
10. A key component to success here at Stantec is building solid relationships with new clients. How do you effectively get to know new people and lay the groundwork for a long lasting relationship?
How to Answer
The fast paced world of business consulting requires the ability to build relationship after relationship with all of the clients that you will potentially be working with. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to gain insight into how you build relationships with new people from the first time you interact with them. In your answer, talk about how you gain and build trust with new people and explain how the little things in your initial interactions go a long way toward building long lasting working relationships.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
Answer Example
"I am a firm believer that success in any role I've played in my career was due in part to the relationships that I've built in those roles. Whenever I have the chance to work with a new colleague or a new customer, my approach is to create an initial connection with them to build trust. After that point, my interpersonal skills take over through active listening. I use my listening skills to learn about the motivating factors and needs of the person that I will be working with and this helps mold that respect and trust between us even more. I think this approach would be very critical in working with new clients on a regular basis here at Stantec and I'd love the opportunity to bring these skills to the table for you."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
11. What experience do you have in implementing cybersecurity technology in the transportation industry?
How to Answer
With the semi-recent advancements in the internet and wireless communications, the transportation industry has been put at risk of cyber attacks from both near and far. As a consultant with Stantec, you will be asked to work with clients in ensuring that their cybersecurity plans and processes are in place and up to date. Talk about your experience in this arena and be sure to reiterate to your interviewer that you are always open to staying at the forefront of changing technologies in the field.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As part of a government contract that I worked on through the USDOT, I was part of a team that implemented new technology for infrastructure related to roadside equipment, devices and systems that helps keep our nations highways safe on a daily basis. I love learning new technologies in cybersecurity and feel comfortable transferring my knowledge over to the rail and aviation industries as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"With my experience stemming from the rail industry, the threat of terrorism with large rail lines really escalated as GPS and wireless technology became more prevalent in the industry. With several large clients running all over the country, I helped implement and install malware and virus scanning technology in systems to prevent hacking from abroad. This technology is necessary across all spans of the transportation industry."
12. Talk about a time that you successfully educated another individual or group in your area of expertise. What made your educational experience effective?
How to Answer
The role that you are interviewing for with Stantec will likely involve providing education to clients in your area of expertise. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable and effective in providing education by having you talk about a time that you have done so. In the example that you provide, try to point out some key items to making business education successful like developing a plan/goals, respecting differing viewpoints/opinions, making it hands on and making it fun.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Probably the aspect that I love the most about my current job is being the lead for training new hires into our department. Because of my years of experience and my innate ability to effectively orientate new employees, my director asked me to take this duty about four years ago. My approach with any new hire is to customize their training based on their knowledge and experience so the training is effective for them. What works for one person may not work for another and I always need to be fluid with this. I also prioritize the need to make orientation and training a hands on experience for the new hire because classroom learning can only take a person so far in the learning process."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last seven years working in the corporate tax field. While in this job, I worked very independently for a private organization, so I've been out of the training and education side for a while now. During my first job out of college as a CPA though, I was very adept at providing education to the clients that I worked with on a daily basis. What I learned in that experience was the importance of putting material out there in a manner that the person being trained understood. As well, talking to clients and understanding my client's wants and needs were very important for me to be able to best educate them. I really believe that these skills would enable me to hit the ground running with Stantec and your clients would benefit greatly."
13. What experience do you have in leading or overseeing the work of others? How will this be beneficial to Stantec if you are hired in a consulting role here?
How to Answer
In the construction consulting industry, you will be charged with leading the clients of Stantec in their construction endeavors. From your resume, your interviewer can likely get some sense of the experience you have in leading others. But, for this question, they are looking to hear from you directly both about your experiences that you have in leading and supervising others and your comfortability in doing so. However you answer the question, ensure that your interviewer leaves your conversation knowing that you have the ability to lead others into big projects.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"From my early days as a foreman for a small commercial contractor to where I'm currently at with a large commercial contractor, I have many years of leading teams and delegating work among large teams of laborers. My big picture mind knows the tasks it takes to finish a project efficiently and my leadership style bodes well for motivating others and delegating work efficiently. In my dream of moving to a consulting role with Stantec, these skills would prove very beneficial for your clients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If hired here at Stantec, I would come with many years of experience in leading teams of workers on the job site. Having been trained in the many leadership styles, I try to be as adaptive as possible to my audience. I can be a coach, a servant leader and a democratic style leader if the situation calls for it. If warranted with your clients, I can also provide the visionary leadership style necessary to see big projects through to the end."
14. Talk about a time that your thoroughness in inspecting a construction site helped identify a critical issue. What did you learn from that situation?
How to Answer
As a consultant overseeing major construction projects for clients, your inspection skills will counted on and be vital to the success of the clients of Stantec. Your interviewer is looking to hear that you are detailed in your inspection processes by having you talk about a time that your detail helped spot an issue and correct it before it was too late. Be sure to pull any lessons from that situation that you carry forward with you to this day that will help you in this consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"With the current contractor that I work for, I am charged with final internal inspections of finished facilities. Being that a large portion of our business is new school construction, I take great pride in being thorough for the safety of the students and the staff. Last year, I flew to Kentucky to spend a few days onsite of a project that was finishing up. Upon inspecting the air conditioning unit and associated duct work, I noticed that the power supply was not sufficient enough for the main unit. Other inspectors may have quickly looked past this item as an oversight, but I immediately called in our project manager to have the issue taken care of the next day. I've found that the small things often get overlooked, so I take any time necessary on a site to go over every minor detail like this."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in residential construction for many years, I know the common areas where building mistakes can be detrimental to the home or building years down the road. Based on my experiences, I recently inspected a new home with several differing roof surfaces. The rain gutter system was putting all of the water into two spots and I knew this would cause major issues for the foundation of the house falling major rainfalls. To test my theory, I simply used a hose overnight to run water through the two main drainage areas to prove my point to the builder. Within days, the subcontractor was back onsite to reroute the gutter system to multiple exit points."
15. Talk about a time that you applied a new technology or new information to your work as an engineer?
How to Answer
During your career as an engineer up to this point, you've likely had to learn and work with new technology or information that has improved the way that you perform your work. Ideally with this question, your interviewer is looking to see that you are flexible in working with new technologies and/or processes as you consults across different businesses and industries. Prior to your interview, think of an example of a time that showed your ability to be open to new ways of doing things through advancements in technology and talk about why this ability is important in a consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Having been an engineer for over 20 years, today's digital age has certainly altered the way that we work on a day to day basis and I've loved every minute of being on the forefront of these changes. In my current role, I am utilizing nanotechnology that wasn't available even five years ago to create UV resistant and waterproof glass that just wasn't able to be produced before. I'd love to help bring innovation to the clients here at Stantec in this consultant role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a manufacturing engineer by trade, I've worked with many of the recent advancements in robotic technology to help boost production output and quality. Last year, I helped implement a new production line for light bulbs that utilized a fully automated assembly process where machine tenders were operating all processes from a touch screen. The project required a lot of research and education for my engineering team and we all welcomed that with open arms."
16. In what ways would our clients here at Stantec benefit from your knowledge and services?
How to Answer
This question is your chance to talk about the unique skills and knowledge that you would bring to Stantec and that is exactly what your interviewer is looking to hear. In your answer, keep your focus centered on how clients of the organization will benefit from the things that you bring to their table because Stantec is client focused in all that they do. To be effective with this answer, be sure to do your research on the clients at Stantec and think about how your experience will be beneficial for them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I have extensive experience in risk management in the healthcare industry. Having worked with some major players in the industry, your healthcare clients would benefit the most from the experience and solutions I could help provide them. Not to leave other industries out, I think my experience in the healthcare realm will also translate nicely to your clients in other areas of the private sector."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in accounting and tax law in a few different industries during my career to this point, I also have the unique experience of creating new organizational policies and procedures in my current role. In hearing more about this role, I think this experience would be very beneficial for your clients as I would be helping advise them in their practices and creating new policy would be crucial in that process."
17. If you were to join Stantec in this role, you will be counted on to lead projects. Talk about a time you had to lead a team of individuals. What leadership skills do you have that you will bring to the table here?
How to Answer
The ability to lead others in project work or any other aspect of a business comes down to the fine details and traits of being a great leader. The experience you have can come from many different areas and can include project management, supervising/managing or even mentoring others. When you answer this question, be sure to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, bring unity, lead by example and empower/teach others and talk about how you will use these skills if hired at Stantec.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I've been asked on numerous occasions to lead finance projects for my organization and I always do so with open arms and an open mind. On a recent project, I pulled together a team that included members of sales, production and upper management. to make this project successful, it was up to me to know each team member's area of expertise and delegate tasks based on their knowledge. A great part of the teams success was due to my ability to lead in a manner that promoted communication among individuals who never had the chance to work together and I accomplished this through fun ice breaking activities with the team and regular email communications outside of our in-person meetings."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my background, I have extensive experience as a Sales Manager and Director and I know that the skills I honed in these roles will transfer nicely to this position. I have always found that leading teams is best accomplished by leading by example and walking the talk that I put out to my staff. I feel that I've also developed great skills in mentoring and coaching my staff and I've been commended on these skills by both sales leadership peers and my team. In this role, I would bring this same approach when working with clients."
18. Throughout your career, what types of roles and positions have you worked closely with and which roles are you most comfortable working with?
How to Answer
A consultant role with Stantec may require you working with CEO's, Presidents and high executive leaders of organizations and your interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you have experience working with this level of leadership and that you are comfortable in that relationship. If you have experience working with this level, draw on your experiences to talk about how you'll be effective in a consulting role with Stantec. If you don't have direct experience working with this level of leadership, pull from your personality and your relationship building skills to project to your interviewer that you'll be comfortable in the consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Since graduating from college, you can see that I've been employed with my current organization for almost 12 years. In my role, I've grown into the VP of Engineering role. In this role for almost three years now, I get to work closely with our CEO and CFO on upcoming projects. I have regular weekly touchpoints with each leader. I've learned that they look to me for expertise and we have a great working relationship because I speak openly and honestly in my areas of expertise. They continually tell me that they appreciate my no bull approach with them. I think the clients here at Stantec will appreciate that about me as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've sat on different committees and led projects that involved our Senior Vice President and our Production Managers. I work really well with leaders at this level by speaking openly and honestly while asking a lot of clarifying questions. I regularly keep them updated on statuses of projects and communicating issues that may arise."
19. Would you say that you are a goal oriented person on the job? Why would you say that?
How to Answer
Success in business consulting is most often measured in the achievement of goals for clients and for this question, your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear that you are driven by goals and that you have the ability to set them as well. In your answer, give your interviewer the sense that you are goal oriented by giving an example or two of a time where you set and worked towards a goal as part of a team effort. Explain your part in the achievement of the goals and your ability to stay focused on the end result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, one of the first things that you'll learn about me is that I am very driven to succeed in all that I do on the job. For me, personal drive definitely centers around goals and my desire to achieve them. I have the focus to set goals myself and to work towards goals that are set by my organization, my leaders or my customers and I would bring this ability with each client that I work with here at Stantec."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would definitely say that I am goal oriented in the work that I do on a daily basis. In project management, I work off of both time related goals and production related goals and these really drive my daily tasks and my delegation of responsibilities to other team members. If given the opportunity to come work for Stantec, my clients would greatly benefit from my ability to both set and achieve goals with them."
20. What interests you in joining the business consulting world here at Stantec?
How to Answer
Anytime the question regarding why you want to join the company is asked, it is very important to do your research on the organization and the position you are interviewing for so you can match your skills and desires to the job. In your answer here, be sure that you also speak to the potential move to a consultative type role if this will be the first time for you with a consulting organization. Be sure to highlight your qualities that make you an ideal fit for the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"At this point in my career, I feel like I have really maxed out my capabilities in my current role as the IT Director with my current organization. Over the past two or three years, I've found so much fulfillment in my work when I've been helping others and providing education to them that I've narrowed my job search down to the IT consulting field. The prospect of helping other IT departments grow and become more efficient under my consultation is an adventure that I would love to embark on here at Stantec!"
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As I've grown in my role in the Training & Education department with my current employer, I've gravitated toward leadership development and succession planning with my organization and I'd like to bring these skills to work here at Stantec as this position fits right in that mold. Using my experience and knowledge, you'll quickly find that I have a great ability to work alongside and train the top level executives with your clients in a manner that is professional and effective at the same time. My experiences in both healthcare and manufacturing sound like they'd fit well with your client base as well."
21. Talk about a time you had to work with a very difficult person. What was the situation and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
At some point in any person's career, they have to work with a colleague or customer who is extremely difficult. Rather than looking to hear the fine details as to why this person was difficult, your interviewer will be looking to gain insight into how you personally handled the situation and others like it to ensure that a sound relationship was fostered even when you faced difficult circumstances. In your answer, some key things to focus on are your ability to be tolerant, understanding and a great communicator in these situations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I have a customer that flies off the handle very easily if things don't happen just right and I learned this from my first interactions with him. In seeing this happen from the start, I have always maintained a calm demeanor when he was upset and showed empathy by asking questions about his expectations and how to fix situations for him. To this day, I expect difficulty from him when we work together and the years we've had a working relationship together have better prepared me for more clients like him in the future."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, a close colleague of mine had a very abrupt turnaround in her attitude and performance on the job. She was very curt and abrasive in conversations when she was normally very talkative and friendly on the job. After noticing some concerns in her work, I approached her with an open mind and asked her what was going on to cause these things to change. I showed concern and approached her as a friend and this approach prompted her to tell me about some issues happening in her personal life. By taking this approach, rather than getting upset or even made with her, I showed her that I cared and valued her as a person and my approach helped her open up and turn her life at work back around to the positive side."
22. Part of our consulting business here at Stantec is advising clients on new technology and advancements in environmental engineering. When have you had to learn and implement new technology during your career?
How to Answer
As a consultant, you must be well versed in changing technology in the environmental engineering field. As you answer this question, be sure to speak to your ability to both learn new systems/technologies while also being able to educate others on the advancements as well. If you have a particular time that you did this, be sure to let your interviewer know.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Over the last couple of years, my projects with major urban areas have incorporated roof gardens on buildings. Once believed to be incorporated in ancient Babylon, the rooftop gardens do a great job of absorbing CO2 and giving off oxygen while lessening the need for air conditioning in the buildings. During the process of learning about implementing the gardens, I trained many different contractors on our process for building and sustaining these gardens. I am very comfortable in the role of providing education to others and think I'd be a huge asset to the clients here at Stantec."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in the auto industry for many years, I feel very fortunate to have been a part of the design and implementation of the current electric cars that are on the market. As a leader of the program with General Motors, I was tasked with bringing new ideas to our design and engineering teams. I helped build great training programs for staff to help build buy-in to the new technology and to help put ideas into motion for new vehicles on the road."
23. In looking to make the move to an Engineering Consultant here at Stantec, how would you approach clients, and potential equal colleagues, as the expert in your field?
How to Answer
For this question, your interview is really looking how you will effectively transition to a role as a consultant in the engineering field, working with clients across many different industries. Prior to your interview, prepare and be ready to talk about how you plan to make this transition to the consulting role. Be sure to highlight the ways that your education, skills and experiences will translate smoothly to working with leaders and engineers in different industries. Also be sure to talk about your personal approach you will take in the consultant role so that clients are assured that you are the expert that they are paying for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For the past few years, I've really been looking to transition to the consulting field because of my broad area of expertise across many areas of electrical and mechanical engineering. When I was part of a company merger a couple of years ago, my manager commented on my ability to work with new staff and lead them into our new processes and procedures. My personable and knowledgeable approach went over well with my colleagues and is definitely an approach I would bring to clients here at Stantec."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my experience, I've worked in the manufacturing industry for many years and think my experience here will be a great asset to your clients. I am trained in Six Sigma and Lean principles and would be able to bring these strategies to help benefit engineering practices of your clients. If hired for this position, you'll quickly find that I have a passion for education and I feel that is a vital quality for being a successful consultant."
24. Working with our clients here at Stantec often involves some initial conflict with our clients. How would you rate your ability to handle conflict or disagreements in the workplace?
How to Answer
When a consultant comes into an organization to help better an aspect of their business, there are many factors that can lead to initial conflicts with the consultant and their firm. Big egos not wanting a fresh new face and the fear of change are inevitable in this business and your interviewer wants to hear that you have the experience and ability to handle inevitable conflict that will come your way if hired for the position. While obviously rating yourself highly in this area, try to talk about a time where you handled difficult conflict on the job with ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my role as a Project Manager with a large private organization, one of my first steps on any new project is setting a budget. Last year, I was leading the effort on a project focused on waste reduction in our manufacturing facilities. In the initial meetings for new projects, our CFO is always involved so she has a high-level overview of what the project will entail. In the meeting, she immediately berated me for the initial budget that I was proposing and vehemently insisted that the amount just wasn't correct or feasible. Rather than taking offense to her thoughts, I wanted to make sure that she, and the rest of the group, had a solid understanding of all that was taken into consideration for setting the budget. After I explained and showed line by line what the proposed budget broke down to, she was very thankful and didn't realize that team member labor was part of that equation. I think that my ability to understand why she was conflicted and my ability to keep a calm, cool head in that situation was vital and a perfect reason for me rating myself high on my conflict resolution skills."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"From my call center days, I think I developed great conflict resolution skills where I would rate myself an 8 out of 10. Handling customers who were upset about a product or service they received required a calm tone, an educational approach and the ability to not take things too personally. If hired for this position, I would be able to bring this same approach to the client of Stantec."
25. With this potential move to consulting in the construction industry, what unique things do you think you can bring to the clients here at Stantec?
How to Answer
The ability to move to a consultant role in the construction industry takes a special type of individual that has many key skills and qualities. Prior to your interview, be sure to reflect on the reasons that you are looking at moving to a consultant role and why you think you'll be successful in the role. In your answer, be sure to keep a customer/client focus in mind to stress to your interviewer that you will be able to succeed in a consultant role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As I've worked my way through my career starting with swinging hammers on small job sites all the way to leading large scale buildings as a project manager, I have no doubt that the major reason for my successes were my interpersonal skills. Whether I am working on coaching an employee or handling an upset contractor, my approach with people is to be friendly, knowledgeable and humorous, no matter what the situation is. I believe in holding people accountable for their action, leading by example and second chances for people. As I've talked with other consultants, I realize that my people skills would be a huge asset in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've always had a passion for teaching others in the construction industry. I love learning and educating my colleagues and employees on new technology and processes to help us become more efficient and building better products. My ability to teach would be a big benefit for the clients here at Stantec."
26. An often difficult part about working for Stantec and our clients is the need to be fluent and adaptable to the cultures of our clients. Why would you say that you'd be able to handle this aspect of the job with ease?
How to Answer
In the business consulting world, organizations work with clients that all have different backgrounds, leadership styles, cultures, industries and motivating factors. Consultants hired to come in to these organizations have to possess a chameleon-like ability to ingrain themselves in a new company's culture. For you to be successful in the role that you are interviewing for, you must possess this same ability. In your answer to this question, be sure to point out your fluidity to adapt to new situation in your work by giving an example or two of a time you had to do this to give your interviewer a sense of your ability to be flexible with clients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"During my career to this point, I've been very fortunate to say that I've worked for one employer for over ten years and the experience that I've gained with them is a huge asset to me personally. But even though all of my relevant work experience is with the same employer, I've worked under six different department managers during my time there and each person had their own unique management style and expectations of me. As well, my organization has undergone three mergers in my time there and each merger brought a new and bigger organization to light with new values and culture. Whether it was a manager change or an organization change, I always prioritized openness and asking questions to get to know new processes better. I would bring this approach with each and every new client that I would work with in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would liken this role as a Client Manager to working with my customers in my current job. I approach each new customer with an open slated mind while getting to know their motivations, their needs and their expectations of me to help me get a better understanding of how I can best suit them. If hired for this position working with your clients here at Stantec, this approach would be vital because of the variety of businesses and industries that I would be working with."
27. What factors would you consider when determining the feasibility of new engineering project as a consultant with Stantec?
How to Answer
As a Engineering Consultant with Stantec, you will be counted upon to determine the practicality of projects that clients are considering and your interviewer will be looking to hear that you take a concise and methodical approach in considering all aspects of the project for the client. You will be counted on to be the expert in this aspect for the clients at Stantec, so make sure to project your confidence in your answer to your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, I really wouldn't change anything about my current processes for evaluating projects from the start. For my process, I start by assuring that the need for the project is sound. Then, I establish a basic design of the project that take into account all measurements, resources, equipment and overall budget. At this point in time with clients, it would be important to ensure that they are able to take on all of those considerations of the project. With it being their resources, their labor and their budgets, I see this as the biggest aspect that I would be hired for as their consultant."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having went through formal training in project management skills five years ago, I've been able to take a much more high level approach to all of the project that I work on. As a consultant, this training would prove very beneficial in my approach of learning the business and operations of clients and the needs for the project I would be consulting on. Then, I'd be able to use my expertise in the field to be as cost effective and efficient as possible while delivering the best results possible."
28. What are some of the bigger energy sustainability projects that you've been a part of during your career or training?
How to Answer
In looking to move to the consulting world at Stantec, your prior experience in energy sustainability projects will prove to be an asset for the clients that you will work with. Talk in detail to your interviewer about a major project or two that you were a part of. As you speak, be sure to reiterate that this type of project would be beneficial to clients that you will work with at Stantec.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"With my current organization, I have traveled throughout central and South America to help design and build geothermal power plants for countries in dire need of efficient and environmentally friendly electricity. These projects have put me working with people from all over the world and I've learned so much great information that I can pass forward to the clients here at Stantec."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Solar energy has always been a passion of mine. I've had the opportunity to work with the installation of photovoltaic cells on the sides of large skyscrapers and the implementation of solar power towers in countries around the world. The power of the sun to create energy on earth is so powerful and I truly believe that our technology is just touching the surface of what we can harness. I would look forward to working with clients on new and exciting projects as we move into the future."
29. How do you stay organized and on track when working on a long-term project?
How to Answer
Working for Stantec in the role you are interviewing for will require an innate ability to manage projects from conception to final implementation. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to maintain organization to meet deadlines and customer expectations. Talk about your personal methods for organizing project work and give any examples that you have of your methods being successful. In the consulting and advisory industry, customer satisfaction and word of mouth are integral to success and growth of a business and effective project management is key in satisfaction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I really pride myself on my ability to multitask and my ability to stay organized in key in multitasking. For me personally, organization starts with using technology to my advantage and I do this through the use of my Outlook calendar and tasks functions. I take time each day to update my tasks and project work and use my ability to prioritize tasks to ensure that the right things are being worked on. In looking to bring these skills to long-term project work with your clients, staying organized and on task will be extremely important for the success of both Stantec and your clients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my work, the ability to stay organized and on track comes down to having a plan of attack for each project and keeping track of the plan as milestones are hit. If you are familiar with the program Trello, it really helps me organize all of the components of the projects that I work on and give me the ability to track who is doing what, what deadlines are coming and what milestones have been hit. But even with a great program like this, I always have the ability to re-prioritize due dates and new tasks as needed with any project."