30 TAL Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our TAL 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. We often present to a variety of groups at TAL. What is your comfort level here? Tell me about your experience giving presentations in front of large groups.
How to Answer
Public speaking can be intimidating, so assure the interviewer that you are capable of communicating well in front of large groups. Have you taken any courses or training in public speaking? Perhaps you have so much experience that it comes second nature. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of giving presentations should it be required in your role with TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my last two roles I have been responsible for regularly presenting to my team of 43 staff as well as to our entire warehouse team of more than 200. I have also been part of my local Toastmasters group, which helped a great deal. Overall, I feel that I am a confident public speaker."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have a lot of experience in presenting to large groups, but I do present regularly to groups averaging around 4 to 6 people. I am a confident speaker in that setting and am sure that I could present in front of many people - I'd be happy to take on that challenge."
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2. How would your current or former supervisor describe your work ethic?
How to Answer
This is a chance to offer some real-world examples of when you've gone the extra mile or solved a tricky problem in a previous position.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current/former boss would describe me as an employee who puts in the time and effort to make sure my work is something the company can be proud of. I pay attention to detail and never leave a task unfinished. I believe I would be described as dependable and committed and would be a tremendous asset to the TAL team."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am the type of person who can identify a problem or workplace challenge and put a plan in place to solve it. [Provide your specific example(s) here.] I believe this is why I was promoted so quickly in my previous role, and why I would do well at TAL."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
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3. When planning, how often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
How to Answer
Being able to problem solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a very valuable skill set. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that it is very important to create alternative scenarios in all situations. One cannot guess what will happen in the end, so it is smart to be prepared for all possible outcomes. I try always to create 'what-ifs' because I know that plans change and fail. Plan B - or C or D - is always ready to go."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love having contingency plans. It's important for my team to understand that ideally we are going to do X, but if that fails, we need to be ready to make sure Y happens. It takes out the uncertainty at the moment and better prepares everyone to adapt if a problem should arise."
Written by Ryan Brown
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4. When have you shown a willingness to learn a new method or new approach to solving a problem?
How to Answer
It is a great skill to have when you can approach a problem in a new way. Discuss with the interviewer your ability to approach a problem using new methods.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When our company came under new management last year, many new methods and policies were implemented. As a result, I was able to learn many new approaches to our challenges in sales and customer management. Ultimately, they were very effective, and I enjoyed the process of taking a different approach and trying something innovative."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Our company switched to an SAP system last year that I was not familiar with. I enrolled myself in a 4-week evening course at our local community college so that I could quickly learn the system without it affecting my performance at work. It helped a great deal, and my employers were impressed with my willingness to learn. In addition, I was able to share with colleagues new ways to employ the system to solve some of their day-to-day business challenges."
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5. How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?
How to Answer
One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to people that you work with and care for. Whether it is delivering a less than positive work review or terminating someone - it doesn't come easy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of task in a transparent, concise and professional manner.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe no one enjoys sharing bad news with a co-worker, but I do have experience in doing so. When this type of task is required, I make sure, first, to practice empathy. Truth is always key, so I will be honest and clear when sharing the news. For instance, if I am to terminate someone's employment, I will not sugar coat the reasons. It's best they know so that they can learn from the experience."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I try to be very direct with my communication skills. While showing empathy is always important, I try not to be over-emotional when sharing non-ideal information with team members - most news of this nature is fact-based and can be presented calmly and rationally. A sense of optimism can also help. Good or bad news, there is always a way to improve the situation and create something good from it. After delivering bad news, I will work with my coworker to find a positive solution."
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6. TAL encourages continued education. Tell me about a time when you took on a new course to study in order to improve your own work performance.
How to Answer
Once you are in your career, it certainly doesn't mean that you need to stop learning. There are many job-related courses available. Talk to the interviewer about the last time you took advantage of these available courses. Discuss your interest in continuing your education even after joining TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am a huge proponent of professional development and continuing education. We have to stay current in our industry in order to keep up with the fast pace of change and innovation. Our company recently offered the Sandler Sales program to anyone in the company who was interested. I took this workshop and really enjoyed it - plus, my sales increased by 23 percent that year."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Last year, I worked toward my Project Manager certification while working full time. That experience alone greatly increased my multitasking skills, and I'm confident that the PM certification is a strong addition to my already existing management skill set. I believe strongly that it's important for employees to seek training and professional development opportunities in order to make sure they're not only competitive, but also adding the best possible value to their organizations."
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7. Do you prefer doing work on a routine day-to-day basis or do you prefer mixing up your routine occasionally?
How to Answer
Are you the individual who prefers to know what the routine will be, or do you thrive on the challenge and excitement of unpredictability? The interviewer would like to know if your work style will be a fit with TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Actually, I thrive in both environments. I feel I perform well when I have routine, day-to-day tasks that can be fine-tuned and perfected over time, but I really shine when I get to solve problems while dealing with unexpected developments with a project or initiative. A healthy mix of both is the best environment for me."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I like to have a bit of both, honestly. I have a general schedule that I follow in the morning including a team huddle, setting objectives for the day, following up with clients, and then setting new meetings with prospects. That said, the in-between of that framework is always pretty unpredictable. In sales, you never know what might happen, especially when selling a product, as I do. More often than not, there is some challenge or drama throughout the day (or 20), so that variety keeps me on my toes, engaged and excited."
Written by Ryan Brown
8. If TAL hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
How to Answer
When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate and hired at TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My first priority would be soaking up as much information about culture, process and KPIs as possible. I'd embark on a 'listening tour' in order to engage in deep conversation with my team and with my colleagues to discover the greatest current needs and how to prioritize them based on company goals for the quarter. Overall, I would strive to meet or exceed all KPIs for the business quarter as efficiently as possible."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter and year to identify any challenges and set a plan to address them. I'd also look for team and company strengths in order to capitalize on or expand them in order to increase the company's bottom line. Overall, I'd be looking for patterns that help me make an immediate contribution to the team and the organization."
Written by Ryan Brown
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9. How can TAL motivate you, as a leader?
How to Answer
Your motivation may be that the idea of success and achievement drives you. Perhaps you are working toward career advancement. Take some time to think about what truly motivates you.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe that, for the most part, I am intrinsically motivated. However, I am often encouraged by verbal recognition of my impact, along with compensation-based rewards. This could be a competition for a gift card or a contest where I can earn a bigger holiday party budget for my team. Being a leader comes naturally to me, so I don't find it to be an onerous task very often. My competitive side keeps me motivated as well."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In a competitive industry, I want to work for the best and with the best. I am motivated by a company that sets high performance standards, and by colleagues who work hard to meet them. I love being challenged by my peers to deliver my very best work."
Written by Ryan Brown
10. We value communication at TAL. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team also lets me know if I need to clarify anything. Based on this feedback from my current co-workers, I would rate my communication skills as an 8 out of 10. I'm definitely strong in this area, but still have room for improvement as I continue to grow as a leader and become more familiar with the TAL communication values. "
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I believe in being clear, direct and up front with my co-workers. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator - to always be clear but kind - so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
Written by Ryan Brown
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11. At TAL, we greatly value collaboration, which hinges on exceptional communication. Tell me about a time when your communication skills greatly benefited your team.
How to Answer
Strong communication skills are required to be an effective leader. How have your communication skills helped your team in the past, and how will they help the team at TAL?
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"There's a lot of great research available showing that teams that communicate well are able to complete projects in a quicker and more efficient way than those who don't communicate well. They also are more accurate in their work. This is the kind of teamwork I try to encourage among my colleagues - I believe in regular touch-base appointments - both for the whole team and for individual members - plus regular written communication that can be archived and accessed at a later date for clarity."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Communication is so important within an organization, especially when it comes to implementing major initiatives. We recently rolled out a large organizational change at my company, and I took a transparent approach to communication throughout the process. I asked my team for feedback and buy-in early in the process. We discussed some challenges that could be expected and how to mitigate them, so the team felt well-prepared. When the time came to roll out the change, there were very few surprises and the transition was surprisingly smooth."
Written by Ryan Brown
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12. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
Others don't always communicate with you in the style that you would prefer. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have handled a supervisor who does not interact with you in a way that you like or that is clear to you.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Whenever I have had a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I first try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. I also try to ask a lot of questions and document instructions in writing as much as possible in order to make sure I'm understanding."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"There are times in business when this happens. I make sure I regroup with the supervisor to explain the strain a gap in communication causes on the team. I then go into mending mode, ensuring the information that needs to be communicated gets disseminated out to the team."
Written by Ryan Brown
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13. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.
How to Answer
Due to a wide variety of personalities, relationships can take time to form. How do you ensure that you have a strong line of communication with your co-workers and supervisors, right from the start?
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe the first few weeks of any new position should be devoted to listening and understanding the culture, landscape, needs and expectations of team members and colleagues. In previous positions, I have found 'listening tours,' valuable, in which I schedule coffees, lunches or short meetings with as many colleagues as possible during the first few weeks to discuss their challenges, successes and expectations for the position. This sets us up as collaborators from the very beginning."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"First impressions are everything, and I make a strong attempt to build relationships with all of my peers right up front when starting a new job. I schedule meetings to make an introduction and ask discovery questions to learn how I can best support them when working together. It is also important to gain insight into their preferred methods of communication. Also important, I try very quickly to show an interest in their lives outside of work - who they are, their hobbies, their families, etc., so that it's clear that I value them as individuals, not just as professional roles."
Written by Ryan Brown
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14. What experience do you have using team-based messaging applications?
How to Answer
There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the applications you are experienced in and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have used a variety of team-based messaging applications - they are powerful tools for encouraging and organizing team communication. I am most familiar with Slack, Apple Messenger and Google Hangouts Chat. Most of these programs are fairly user-friendly and intuitive, so I feel confident that no matter which system you use, I can pick it up very quickly."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have a lot of experience with team-based messaging applications besides MSN Messenger years ago. I do pick up on technology quickly and have no concerns when it comes to my ability to learn. What team-based messaging applications do you use at TAL?"
Written by Ryan Brown
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15. At TAL, we take great pride in how our team members present themselves in writing. How would you describe your written communication skills?
How to Answer
Being a clear communicator, in written form, is a crucial skill to master. Have you taken any courses in communication and writing? Are you confident in your written communication skills? Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a brief example or story.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my written communication skills as very strong. Writing has always been a passion of mine on a personal level, and I appreciate the importance of expressing oneself clearly, succinctly and without error in a business setting. That's a tremendous piece of building one's professional reputation. I have studied communication, writing and journalism at the university level and feel confident I could represent TAL well in my written correspondence."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My written communication skills are solid. I often utilize written communications as a follow up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for associates to go back to and reference, plus might answer any questions that come up along the way."
Written by Ryan Brown
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16. Tell me about a time when you improved communication between yourself and a co-worker or client.
How to Answer
Possessing the skills to improve communication in the workplace is a very valuable asset. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to enhance communication in the workplace. Be sure to tie in how your skills will benefit TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I have one particular client who is an exceptionally brief communicator. If I ask two questions, he tends to answer only one. I learned quickly that he would not acknowledge anything for which he did not have a direct answer, so I began to ask him questions in a different way. For example, I would say 'Do you have an answer for me on question X?' and he would say yes or no. We would then go from there. This method was an effective form of communication for that particular client. I have a few approaches that will be useful when working for TAL."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I once had a client who often missed email updates. It caused us to cross our wires a few times. I suggested that we book a quick call every week to review any outstanding areas that need to be addressed, and I followed each call with a status report so that the conversation was documented. This process worked well for us, and I believe it would work well for clients at TAL as well."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
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Situation: The background information an interviewer needs to make sense of your story.
Task: Continuing to set the stage, you then give the interviewer an idea of your role and responsibilities in this specific story.
Action: Next, you offer a detailed description of the steps you took to tackle the situation.
Result: Last, you talk about the specific achievements and outcomes that resulted from your actions.
If you would like to learn more about STAR, we have a guide here: Master Behavioral-Based Interviews Using The Star Method
17. We value effective communication at TAL. Would you say you are a better oral or written communicator?
How to Answer
In which manner do you prefer to communicate - oral or verbal? Discuss your preference with the interviewer and support your answer.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe both oral and written communication are important for business success, and each has its strengths. I feel confident in both - in-person communication can be valuable for reading facial expressions, body language, etc., while written communication is ideal for establishing a record of important information. Over the course of my career, I've tried very hard to hone skills in both areas so that I'm a well-rounded, strong communicator."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I do not lean one way or another when it comes to oral or written communication. Both are equally important to me. If I have to choose just one, I will choose written communication as one can always refer back to written communication for reference."
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18. Tell me about an error or mistake you made because of a breakdown in communication from you or one of your team members.
How to Answer
On occasion, mistakes will happen, and communication will be broken. Talk to the interviewer about a time that this occurred in the workplace. How did you resolve the situation?
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"This happens so easily when people are involved! I recall one instance where I misread an email from one of my team members. The tone was unclear, and I read it as sarcastic rather than in the positive tone my team member intended. After a tense conversation, the employee clarified her intention, and I learned that I was mistaken. She and I agreed to pay closer attention to email tone and to err on the side of positivity to avoid a similar situation in the future."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My current team recently suffered a missing link in communication with one of our vendors, whom we engaged with to complete a large service contract. We did not clearly communicate a change in the agreement, which affected the way the company executed against the contract, costing my team wasted time and resources. We were able to identify the breakdown in communication and change the process to ensure it does not happen again."
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19. At your current or former place of employment, how important was communication and dealing with others?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working in an environment where clear communication with others is critical? Talk to the interviewer about your most recent work and how communication played a part.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my previous role, healthy communication was required to protect the safety of our employees. We transported dangerous goods, and our management required that we all take specific workshops on team communication and appropriate documentation. The company was committed to upholding the body of research that shows that teams who communicate better also perform better. Because of this, I feel confident in my prior training and am sure that my communication skills are solid."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I currently do not enjoy a healthy level of team communication in my workplace - communication skills are neither required nor modeled by our management team. This is part of the reason I am seeking new employment. I highly value clear communication and believe I do my best work within teams who are highly communicative and collaborative. How do you encourage strong communication among employees here at TAL?"
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20. At TAL, we give everyone the opportunity to be a mentor. Have you had the opportunity to teach an important skill to a co-worker?
How to Answer
Interviewers want to hear that you have experience teaching or mentoring other employees one-on-one. You may have taught a new hire all of your department's standard processes. Perhaps you taught a long-standing employee how to use Excel. You may have mentored an employee who was struggling to hit monthly goals. All of these scenarios are great examples to draw on.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have always enjoyed the opportunity to teach or mentor my colleagues. For example, last month our company introduced a new module in our SAP system, and I could see that one of our team members was having some trouble with the new module. I was familiar with it already, so I offered to help him. We spent his lunch hour for the next three days working on it. He eventually perfected his interaction with the module, and he's now teaching others."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Absolutely. In each of my two previous roles, I have been tasked with leading a small team. I have worked on everything from appointment-setting and overcoming objections to price negotiations with those respective teams. What's more, I always look for an opportunity to connect with new team members. I try to always invite them out for coffee so they not only have a friendly face in the office, but also know that I can be a resource for them. I was promoted from their role, so I am always happy to share how I did it on such a fast timeline and what I've found effective that can help them be a change-maker in the company, too."
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21. At TAL, we value calculated risk. When have you taken an unusual risk in the workplace? What was the outcome?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of taking calculated risks in the workplace and that you understand the difference between a calculated risk and a risky choice.
Think of a work-related risk, like trying out a new idea to solve a problem. You may even take on a new responsibility that you're not trained in, which is a little bit of a risk. Give an example that shows you are thoughtful and strategic when taking risks.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Last month I took an unusual risk by accepting an outside sales call when I am an inside sales employee. An existing client asked me to meet him because he had some additional business he was thinking of awarding our company, but he wanted to make sure we had a strong rapport before he handed the business over. I met him in person, and we got along so well that he gave me an additional $1M in annual business. I knew it was a risk because my traditional area of expertise is inside sales accounts, but I knew the reward was greater than the potential risk, so I took it. It was well worth it!"
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I certainly took a risk by leaving my strategic account management position to take an entry sales position in another organization. My family thought I was nuts. But, while it was risky, I wanted to get into sales and I wanted to experience a startup environment. It worked out great, as I got basic sales experience, and then have been steadily promoted since. My career has moved in an upward trajectory so much faster since I took that leap of faith."
Written by Michelle Clark on September 10th, 2018
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22. Work volumes can become very high at TAL. How do you handle a larger than average workload?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be assured that you can handle the workload required of you in this position and that you will not become overwhelmed if/when workloads unexpectedly increase. When workloads increase, stress levels do too. How do you react?
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When I have a large workload on my plate, I do not stress over the tasks that are in front of me. Rather, I make a simple plan of which tasks are a high priority and which tasks are a lower priority. The higher priority tasks, I complete first. Through this system, I can focus on my tasks individually, rather than stressing out about the multitude of tasks ahead of me. I also love the satisfaction of being able to cross things off my list!"
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I try to take a few deep breaths, review my list of tasks, and concentrate first on those that are of highest strategic priority to the organization - in other words, the tasks most likely to positively affect the company's bottom line. If I can put my highest expenditure of resources there, I'm more likely to make a positive impact on the organization overall."
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23. When a major problem arises, what is your first reaction?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. How you react will significantly determine how you fit with the existing team at TAL.
Perhaps your computer crashes and you realize you may have just lost all of your hard work. Or maybe you are limited on time and have a deadline rapidly approaching. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you take a methodical approach to problem-solving, rather than reacting in an impulsive way when a problem occurs.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When a major problem arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened, define it and clearly articulate its consequences. I then go into 'brainstorm mode,' jotting down potential ways to resolve the issue. From there, I can generally use a pros and cons list to determine the best course of action for a fast and amicable resolution."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have taught myself to be as calm as possible with my first reaction when problems arise. I take some deep breaths, step back and review my options for solving the problem rather than allowing myself to become frustrated or panicked. I often can confer with my team and/or peers on worst-case scenario repercussions, along with how to mitigate them. We typically explore several different scenarios in order to make a collaborative decision on which path forward is best for the company."
Written by Ryan Brown
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24. Give me an example of a time when you had to troubleshoot to solve a problem.
How to Answer
Troubleshooting is like reverse engineering - it takes skill, effort, and patience. You have to understand the problem to know how to work backward from it to find a solution.
Knowing how to solve problems with technical equipment is always a solid skill, and a great way to demonstrate your example. Show that you are insightful in your approach.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Last week, while working in our new SAP system, I received a repeated error. I entered in a few different codes, but that didn't solve the issue. I then did a hard reset on my system. Then, I referred to the user guide for additional suggestions. It took a little time and patience, but I was able to resolve the issue without calling the support line and waiting on hold. It felt like a major accomplishment!"
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"We do not have an IT department in my current office, so whenever a technical issue arises, I am the person my team calls for help. Troubleshooting is fun for me - it's like a new challenge every time. Google and IT-related forums are often my best friend, and with some time and research, I've been able to solve the issues my team brings to me."
Written by Ryan Brown
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25. How often do you discuss work with your colleagues, in order to think up new systems and styles of working?
How to Answer
Do you use your creative mind with your colleagues to discuss ideas and systems in the workplace? Talk to the interviewer about how you have used creative thinking in the workplace and how this will benefit TAL, if hired.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a policy with my team that if they have an innovative and helpful idea they can bring it to me at any time. If their idea or system is something that I think could work, we then create a plan, and sometimes even a prototype, together to present to our head office. This policy has generated some powerful ideas in our office over the past three years including a work-share program and some health and safety initiatives."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think it is important to discuss work with colleagues in a collaborative nature to encourage all types of ideas to come forth. Often, when people put their heads together, they will create something better than something one individual could have done alone. I'm a big fan of the improv comedy philosophy of 'Yes, and,' in which team members always say, 'yes' to one another's ideas and then try to build on them to make them more viable."
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26. We appreciate innovative thinking at TAL. When have you created a new product or service?
How to Answer
Using your creative mind, have you ever introduced an employer to a new product or service opportunity? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have created a new product or service.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my previous role I was fortunate enough to introduce my company to the idea of a 'gold level' priority service where, in addition to our general customer service program, we added other options for our highest-yielding customer segments. Our customer base responded enthusiastically, and we were able to grow several accounts because of the extra attention. In fact, we kept the program running for a few years."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to my career, so I have not had opportunities to create a new product or service in the workplace. In my personal life, a lot of my neighbors have pets. I started a neighborhood dog walking, sitting and vacation service when I was in college. It was highly popular in the summer. I made some money and helped my neighbors enjoy their vacations. This was a positive experience for me at a very early age, so it has encouraged me to be mindful of opportunities and not afraid to raise my hand to express an idea or try something new."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
27. Do you prefer doing work on a routine day-to-day basis or do you prefer mixing up your routine occasionally?
How to Answer
Are you the individual who prefers to know what the routine will be, or do you thrive on the challenge and excitement of unpredictability? The interviewer would like to know if your work style will be a fit with TAL.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Actually, I thrive in both environments. I feel I perform well when I have routine, day-to-day tasks that can be fine-tuned and perfected over time, but I really shine when I get to solve problems while dealing with unexpected developments with a project or initiative. A healthy mix of both is the best environment for me."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I like to have a bit of both, honestly. I have a general schedule that I follow in the morning including a team huddle, setting objectives for the day, following up with clients, and then setting new meetings with prospects. That said, the in-between of that framework is always pretty unpredictable. In sales, you never know what might happen, especially when selling a product, as I do. More often than not, there is some challenge or drama throughout the day (or 20), so that variety keeps me on my toes, engaged and excited."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
28. If you were given a choice, which work related task would you leave for last? Why?
How to Answer
Often we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last in the act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully move a particular responsibility for last because we feel that it makes the most sense. Help the interviewer to determine which personality type you are by answering this question.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"If given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time selling and hitting targets; that's the most energizing and satisfying to me, so completing tasks related to documentation during business hours often feels like a distraction from business development. I do understand the importance of appropriate documentation; I just prefer to save it for after the workday."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think it's natural to want to save the hardest or most demanding tasks for last, so I make a conscious effort not to do that. I try to review my to-do list each morning and pick the most difficult task on the list to complete first. That way, I feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment, and it's a nice confidence boost as I move on to tasks throughout the day that aren't quite as challenging."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
29. How can TAL motivate you, as a leader?
How to Answer
Your motivation may be that the idea of success and achievement drives you. Perhaps you are working toward career advancement. Take some time to think about what truly motivates you.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe that, for the most part, I am intrinsically motivated. However, I am often encouraged by verbal recognition of my impact, along with compensation-based rewards. This could be a competition for a gift card or a contest where I can earn a bigger holiday party budget for my team. Being a leader comes naturally to me, so I don't find it to be an onerous task very often. My competitive side keeps me motivated as well."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In a competitive industry, I want to work for the best and with the best. I am motivated by a company that sets high performance standards, and by colleagues who work hard to meet them. I love being challenged by my peers to deliver my very best work."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
30. What excites you?
How to Answer
Every hiring manager wants to know how to keep you best motivated and excited about the job. Talk to the interviewer about what excites you and keeps you happy at work.
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a healthy competitive edge, even if its a personal competition. For me, I am excited and motivated by winning, whether that be winning over a new client, exceeding my KPIs or being recognized for a job well done. I am also motivated and energized by a strong team that supports and challenges one another."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I get excited when new challenges are presented in the workplace. This could include a new program, a new customer initiative, a sales contest, or even the training of a new employee. A fresh problem to solve or a fresh obstacle to conquer is highly motivating and exciting for me."
Written by Ryan Brown on September 9th, 2018
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback