28 Tenneco Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Tenneco interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Communication Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Creative Thinking Questions
- 7. Customer Service Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Education Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Performance Based Questions
- 13. Problem Solving Questions
- 14. Trust Questions
Accomplishment
1. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your career.
How to Answer
The interviewer is giving you an easy question to offer you an opportunity to brag about yourself. You have likely gained many great skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include skills that will potentially benefit Tenneco, if you are hired.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In the past few years I was able to upgrade my education and learn a lot more about the ways companies operate. The most critical skill I gained is my ability to multi-task. I am a strong leader too. I believe that working on my MBA has given me those skills, and has improved my ability to have a motivating impact on my coworkers."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my most recent position, the skills that I am most proud of acquiring would include my well-honed leadership skills, my scheduling abilities, and my ability to stay focused on the task in front of me."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Adaptability
2. We are moving quickly into second interviews. What is your availability like over the next few days?
How to Answer
Good news! If they are asking for your availability in the next few days, you likely made it to the next round. Try to be as flexible as possible with your availability.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I can make myself available at any time, with some notice. The most ideal times for me to interview are between 8-10 AM and 2-5 PM Monday through Friday."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to make myself available at your earliest convenience. I am interested in this role and will be flexible when it comes to interview times."
Written by Nolan Henry on September 3rd, 2021
Career Goals
3. At Tenneco we seek to hire individuals who have a keen interest in the automobile industry. What interests you most about what we do?
How to Answer
The interviewer is seeking to determine what may have attracted you to apply for a position at Tenneco. Having a genuine interest in the automobile industry can be an indication that you intend to make this position a career and not just a temporary stop-gap until something better comes along. Think about the attributes of Tenneco that appealed to you as you researched the company. Be positive and enthusiastic about sharing your desire to be employed by Tenneco.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I was impressed to learn that Tenneco is one of the leading manufacturers of auto parts and clean air solutions in the world. Not to mention that one of your divisions is the exclusive shock provider for Nascar, which is a sport I love. I am very excited to have an opportunity to work for Tenneco and I intend to be with them for a long time."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The automobile industry is always changing, and what interests me most about this industry is that your company is a leader in providing auto parts to many manufacturers in the world. I love the fact that you supply Toyota and Audi and VW, as well as most retail parts stores in the US. I cannot wait to get started with Tenneco and would be proud to represent them."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Career Goals
4. Tenneco is always looking to promote from within the company. Share with me why you might be a good candidate for advancement.
How to Answer
Every company wants to hire workers who see a future with their organization. List some of the qualities that you have that might make promotion possible. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself, and be enthusiastic about the abilities you possess.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself to be a leader. I like teaching, strive to support and affirm others, and I am good at capturing a vision. I can hardly wait to bring those qualities to my position at Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would welcome any additional responsibility that Tenneco feels I could handle. I would like to be promoted and eventually have a position in QA or in the inventory management department. I believe that Tenneco will see the qualities I have and offer me a chance to move up the ranks."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Communication
5. What experience do you have using team-based messaging?
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 James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have used a variety of team-based messaging applications. My recent experience has been by email and messaging to smartphones. I am more than willing to learn your system. No matter what Tenneco uses, I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous positions I have not used any team-based messaging applications. However, I am technically savvy and confident that I can pick up any program I would need to succeed. Which team-based messaging application do you use at Tenneco?"
Written by Nolan Henry on September 3rd, 2021
Compatibility
6. The position that you have applied for requires a lot of repetitive motion and standing on your feet for long periods of time. Is there any issue that might prevent you from doing these activities?
How to Answer
Tenneco makes parts for lots of different components used by automobile manufacturers. As in any kind of line work, there is a chance that you may be asked to do strenuous activity. The interviewer must ensure that you are physically able to perform the work. Be thoughtful as you answer this question and forthcoming in sharing any limitations you might have.
Be enthusiastic about your ability to stand and lift the requirements the company may set for you.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would be interested in hearing more about what might be required at this position. Currently, I do not have any medical restrictions, and would be willing to perform any duties assigned to me."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Depending on the requirements, I should be able to perform any duties the position requires. I am not bothered by repetitive motions and have worked on a manufacturing line before, so I am used to the tasks and the expectations involved."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Compatibility
7. Why do you believe you will have success at this position with Tenneco?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are motivated to do your best. An employee with a can-do attitude has confidence in their abilities. This is a good time to highlight the skills you possess and show the interviewer that you are the best choice for the position At Tenneco.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I will be successful in this position because I am passionate about what your organization stands for. I can clearly see your vision and am excited to get started."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My organizational skills will be a major asset to you. I also bring with me a strong track record of loyal and dedicated work, and I am consistent. These are just a few reasons I feel that I'll be successful in this role with Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Compatibility
8. In this position at Tenneco, you will be required to wear a new uniform each day. Tell me about the appearance standards your previous position might have had.
How to Answer
Most manufacturing companies will have strict personal appearance standards by which employees must abide. They may prohibit excessive jewelry or require that hair be worn in a cap, or even that steel-toed shoes be worn. The interviewer needs to know that you will be willing to wear or purchase items that might be required. Reassure the hiring manager that wearing a uniform is not an issue.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to abide by some very strict personal appearance standards. My hair had to be kept cut, and our uniform had to always be clean and pressed. I like the idea of uniforms because I don't have to worry about what to wear constantly. I would be interested in learning more about Tenneco's policy."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were given a shirt to wear with our name embroidered on it, and then we could wear jeans. I wore comfortable shoes because we were on our feet all day. I have no problem wearing a uniform, but I would be interested in knowing if Tenneco used a cleaning service for the uniforms."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Creative Thinking
9. While working this position, it will be necessary for you to be organized so that you can be as efficient as possible. What are some ways you bring organization to your work environment?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you have the organizational capacity to do keep focused on your work. Think about things that you have done to stay on task, and make your present position, free from clutter or distractions. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of working in a safe, but efficient manner.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am a person who likes to keep their area clean. My tools are always organized, and I don't like it when my work area gets messy, so I am constantly cleaning. I work in a way that minimizes movements that are unnecessary so that the line never has to stop or slow down because I fall behind."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I designed an organizational system to ensure that all invoices and purchase orders were filed by date and vendor. This allowed our counter areas to be clean and free of debris and uncluttered. I take a lot of pride in keeping my area neat so that I don't have to wade through a bunch of stuff to find something. I think Tenneco will appreciate my ability to organize my work area."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Customer Service
10. At Tenneco we put a lot of pride in our customer service. How do you go above and beyond for your clientele?
How to Answer
The work at Tenneco requires certain standards as you perform your task. The interviewer needs to know that you will always be focused on producing the best work for the customer that is possible. Think about some examples of how you sought to meet or exceed your customer's expectations. the interviewer wants to see that you take customer service seriously. Use an example of a time when you have gone over and above the general expectations to make a customer happy. Be sure to acknowledge the customer service efforts that Tenneco puts forward.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I go above and beyond by doing quality work. I know that a part of the manufacturing process is to have a quality control person inspect your work. I believe that you cannot ensure excellence if you do not look for it. So I take a lot of pride in doing my job to the best of my ability. I know this is a value Tenneco shares."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I always have a smile on my face. Another way that I go above and beyond for my customers is by never saying 'no'. I will say 'let me check into that for you' or 'let me see what I can do' or 'I will certainly try to find that answer for you. It's amazing how a positive spin on all communication can improve a customers' level of satisfaction."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Discovery
11. At Tenneco we encourage our employees to find ways to be socially responsible. What social causes are you currently involved in and why are they important to you?
How to Answer
Tenneco believes in corporate responsibility and encourages its employees to make tomorrow better (one of their core values). The interviewer would like to know if you share this philosophy. Think about social causes that are important to you, and be enthusiastic when mentioning them. Be sure to highlight any events or things that you have noticed Tenneco doing.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"One of your core values is to make tomorrow better. I love that attitude. I am currently involved in Habitat for Humanity and take some of my personal time every year to help build a house. I know that this particular plant sponsors the Symphony in the Park, which my wife and I have attended several times. I can hardly wait to be a part of what you are doing in our area."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Most of the causes that I am involved in are performed as a part of the ministry of my church. We have cleaned up highways, built homes and I volunteer in the homeless shelter our church sponsors. I do believe in your core value to make tomorrow better, and I can hardly wait to get involved with the charities that Tenneco supports."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Discovery
12. Tenneco believes in motivating our team members. What motivates you?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know how to get the best out of you and knows that different individuals are motivated in different ways. Think about the kinds of motivation that you have encountered in previous positions, and how they worked to spur you toward excellence.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am a person who likes to be encouraged both verbally and monetarily. I thrive on the times my supervisor comes by and compliments my work. I also love it when the company rewards me for doing excellent work with a bonus or a contest."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I was an employee of the month, once in each of the last three years. I take pride in how I do my work. I also like the additional money I received from my bosses when they had a contest or when I performed above expectations. I look forward to being recognized as one of Tenneco's top employees."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Discovery
13. At Tenneco, you will be required to submit to a background check. Are there any issues that might turn up and hinder your possibility of employment?
How to Answer
Every company has an insurance carrier that requires careful screening of future employees. It is always best, to be honest, and forthcoming should there be anything on your record. Be helpful to the hiring manager by discussing any limitations that might create an issue. This candor will prevent any future embarrassment between you and the company.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I do not have anything on my record that might cause an issue. I have no problem with a background check and am confident that it will show a clean slate. I look forward to getting past this requirement and on to doing my job for Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"When you check my record, you will find an arrest of a misdemeanor charge of DUI. I have cleared that record with the state, paid my fine, and am happy to report that I have joined AA. I am celebrating three years clean and sober next week."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Discovery
14. At Tenneco, we believe in a healthy work/life balance. Tell me some things that you like to do in your off time to help you divert from the stress of work.
How to Answer
The interviewer is seeking to get to know you as a person. Employees who work all the time, or constantly obsess about work can burn out or become resentful and unproductive. Think about things that you like to do when you are not working. Be enthusiastic when sharing them. This is a time to relax in front of the interviewer so that they can see you as a complete individual.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I love to work on an old '71 Buick that I am restoring. My wife and I go to cruises on the coast and all kinds of car shows just to display it. We like to travel to other places and try out new restaurants."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I love to golf, even though I am not the best at it. There is just something about being out in the morning, walking a course, that invigorates me. Now, if I could only improve my game, I might feel even better about it."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Education
15. Tenneco is one of the largest auto parts suppliers in the world. How familiar are you with what we do?
How to Answer
This question helps the interviewer know if you have researched the company. It indicates the seriousness you place on a possible position with Tenneco. Talk to the interviewer about your knowledge of Tenneco and how this ignited you to pursue a career with them.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I discovered that Tenneco is a leader in making shocks, brakes, clean air equipment, and safety features for many of the automobile manufacturers around the world. Last year alone, Tenneco had over 15 billion in sales and you employ around 73,000 workers. I love how one of your core values is to make tomorrow better. That is a passion I have personally. So I cannot wait for an opportunity to be connected to a culture like that at Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Tenneco is a stable company with the mindset of a startup. I love the fact that you make parts for so many different automobile applications. I love the fact that you empower your employees to do their very best and to constantly bring new ideas to the table. I want to be a part of a culture that wins together, which goes with your - one team - core value."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Experience
16. Walk me through your manufacturing experience.
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely already have your resume in front of them which means they are not looking for a dull play-by-play on your work history. They are asking you to bring your resume to life for them. This means talking about your key successes. Take a few minutes to highlight each position briefly. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a little bit.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I started my career in at XYZ company which produced accessories for motorcycles for Honda and Harley. I got promoted to Quality Assurance there because of my work performance. A few years later, I went to work for XYZ company on their engine line. My job was to fasten the engine mounts to the frame and guide the engine into the underframe. I enjoyed my time in both roles, and am looking forward to working for Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I worked for XYZ company for a number of years as an inventory control specialist. My job was to ensure that the right parts were being pulled every morning and got onto the right trucks for delivery. The work involved a lot of spreadsheet work, and a lot of careful readings of bar codes. I had three employees who worked in my department. I prefer to "
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Experience
17. The position at Tenneco will require an understanding of inventory controls. Tell me about any training you might have received in this area.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of handling any mathematics and inventory control measures that the position may require. Reassure the hiring manager that you can learn the systems involved, and share some of the skills you have acquired in your previous position.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have been trained in inventory controls when I worked for the purchasing department at my previous company. I do not foresee any issues adapting to your systems without too much trouble."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to say that I have been exposed to inventory management systems and have no trouble with them. I am looking forward to learning your system and bringing my skills to Tenneco."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Experience
18. At Tenneco we like to provide additional training to our employees in order to allow them to get exposure to other areas. Tell me about the training you have received at your previous position.
How to Answer
Many companies will offer training to their top-performing employees. This allows the company the ability to plug a current employee into a critical area if needed. The interviewer needs to know your willingness to learn beyond your position. Assure the hiring manager that you are very interested in cross-training so that you can be of more value to the company when the time comes.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would be excited to learn as much as I can. The additional courses would help me in my career, and would increase my flexibility as an employee. I am excited about the possibility."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would be thrilled to take additional training on your manufacturing process so that I can help the team in any way I can. I'm happy to hear that you offer continued training for your employees."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Leadership
19. In this position, you will be responsible for the work of several employees. Tell me about how you might motivate others on your team.
How to Answer
At Tenneco, leaders must figure out how to effectively motivate their employees to do their very best. The manager needs to assess your ability to encourage your team members. If you have worked in a leadership role, think of ways you set clear goals or helped individuals cultivate a new skill. Reflect on your experience and share some ways that you help others to keep up the good work!
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that offering a listening ear or encouraging words from time to time can make a huge difference for your team. Being positive and setting an example of a great attitude is important, so I try to exercise these ideas every day."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I like to motivate others on my team by creating an upbeat and affirming environment. In addition, each morning I greet every team member by name and make it a point to walk the floor. I think that employees will work hard for you if they know you care about them as people and not just a cog in a machine. This week, I offered my team a $100 gift card for whoever could go through the month producing the most above quota."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Leadership
20. At Tenneco, we encourage our employees to find ways to be more efficient, or improve the processes we have. Tell me about a time when you helped make a change in your company for the better.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to assess your engagement level. Employees who are actively involved and looking for ways to improve processes are generally top performers. Think about a time when you made a suggestion and it was adopted by your company. Assure the hiring manager that you will bring the same energy and attention to detail to your job at Tenneco.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, I was able to increase our production by 20% by making a couple of simple adjustments to the line and where employees stood. I went to my supervisor and discussed the ideas with him, and the company found them effective."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I noticed that the handlers were having trouble keeping up, getting the product off our bins and over to packaging. I suggested that the company invest in motorized dollies that would keep the handlers from having to lift and carry as much on the two-wheeled dollies they have been using. The company saw the advantage and it made the job of the handlers more efficient and a whole lot easier."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Performance Based
21. Tenneco prides itself in providing a safe environment for our employees to work in. Tell me about safety procedures that you may have been exposed to in your previous position.
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to get a read on how important safety is to you. If you are an employee who takes shortcuts and puts yourself and others at risk. Think about what is involved with safety and the attention to detail that it requires. Be positive about your willingness to ensure you are following all OSHA standards and company policies to the letter.
manager.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in a manufacturing environment where safety was critical. We had a safety manager whose only job was to walk around the plant and ensure that the staff was following all procedures. I was conscious of my area, keeping it clean and free of debris, and during down times I was always wiping down my machine. Our division went 374 days without an accident, which is still a plant record."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in manufacturing plant for several years, so I know how important it is to be safe. I worked hard to wear protective equipment, keep my area clean, and keep my hands out of harm's way. The safety manager and I had a good relationship, and he knew that he could always depend on me to do things right."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Performance Based
22. At Tenneco, you will be required to produce a certain amount of units on a daily , monthly and yearly basis. Tell me about how you met your goals at your previous position.
How to Answer
Like any other production facility, Tenneco will require you to meet a quota and will gauge your performance accordingly. The interviewer needs to know that you can work under pressure to meet objectives. Think about a time when you had to meet a goal, and how you stayed focused on your task to do so. Be positive about your ability to work in this kind of environment.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, I was constantly judged on whether we made our monthly goals. I love this kind of work because I use the pressure of meeting a quota to motivate myself to find a way to work smarter. I am positive that I can perform in such a way that the company will be pleased with my output."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked on an assembly line before and I know that it can be stressful to keep everything going. I never want to be the reason that the line has to stop so that I can catch up. In my previous position, I worked efficiently to do my assigned task. I loved the pressure I had to get the job done and I almost always made my quota."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Problem Solving
23. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or supervisor? Tell me how you resolved the matter and used it to better your work environment?
How to Answer
Manufacturing work will require communication with employees and managers of other departments. The interviewer wants to know that you are respectful of your leaders, and while you do not always have to agree with your leader, that you communicate respectfully. Think about a time when you might have received constructive feedback that made your work better or easier. Reassure the hiring manager that you are open to instructions when they are communicated to you.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that it's my job as a professional to adapt to all types of people, and respect leadership even when I disagree with decisions they make. My previous employer was a micro-manager, so I am used to being supervised by someone constantly looking over my shoulder. As I worked, I saw that his constant communication allowed me to understand exactly how to produce what he wanted on every project. That way there was no misunderstanding."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to work with some great people and have not experienced conflict with a boss in the past. I have had supervisors who offered feedback about my job performance and I have always been open to receiving it. I try to not take criticism personally, but instead use it to make myself and my job easier. I prefer to have those kinds of conversations in private, but I know that sometimes they are a necessary part of the work on the line. I'm not afraid to have an uncomfortable conversation to sort a situation out as long as the parties act professionally."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Problem Solving
24. Tenneco wants to provide the safest environment it can. Tell me what you might do if you saw a co-worker taking shortcuts, or working in an unsafe manner.
How to Answer
Tenneco has to ensure that all employees abide by their safety protocols, and expect employees to hold each other accountable. This is an opportunity for you to assure the hiring manager that you believe in the greater good. Be positive about your willingness to help your team members be protected and follow company guidelines.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am aware of how important safety is. If I noticed something amiss, I might go to that employee and ask them about it, reminding them of what the safety director is likely to say. If that didn't change the behavior, I would probably ask my supervisor to look into it, and handle the matter as they saw fit."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would want to treat my fellow employees as I would like to be treated. So I might ask the employee who was shortcutting what was going on. I would hope that a simple mention or reminder would fix the problem. if not, I would refer the matter to the QA manager for further action."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Problem Solving
25. At times, the machines on the line have to be shut down for repairs or maintenance. Tell me about some things you might do during down times.
How to Answer
Every manufacturing plant has contingencies for downtime, as machines are being maintained. The interviewer is wanting to know that you will look for ways to occupy the time rather than just stand around soaking up the clock. Reassure the hiring manager, that you will spend the downtime being a productive member of the team.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would attempt to assist team members who might need it, or use the time to clean and sweep up my area more than usual. I would make myself available to my supervisor to see if there was anything he or she needed me to do. I want to stay as active as I can and help the team out as much as possible."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"This year I worked on a machine that kept breaking down. I learned to use the time to keep my area clean and stay busy, while the maintenance department got the machine up and running again. I am the kind of person who almost always needs something to do. if there isn't anything obvious, I find something to keep me busy."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Trust
26. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employment. What were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume and it's best, to be honest, and upfront, about the reasons. Gaps are okay to have so long as there is a legitimate reason behind them. Also, show the interviewer that you did not remain dormant during that time. Talk about any courses you took or volunteer work you did.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for 6 months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. But during that time I kept up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become obsolete."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I was laid off in December of 2016 and, due to the recession, found it difficult to land employment for the 8 months following that lay off. Luckily, I received a good severance package from my previous employer. I took the time to travel and I even learned a second language. It was time well spent."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Trust
27. At Tenneco, we offer our employees benefits, like medical, dental and even a 401 k - tell me about the types of benefits you receive in your present position.
How to Answer
Benefits are an important part of the companies compensation plan. The interviewer needs to know that you will be happy with the kinds of benefits that Tenneco offers. While having this conversation may be uncomfortable, it is a necessary step toward mutual understanding and will provide you as the applicant with more detailed information before accepting any offer of employment.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am currently provided medical and dental insurance, but that is all. I am paying about 800 dollars a month for my wife, two kids, and myself. I was very pleased that Tenneco offers a 401k so that I can start saving for retirement. I would love to hear more specifics on exactly what Tenneco offers."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Could you share with me a bit about your compensation structure? Currently, I receive medical insurance with a low co-pay. They offer added bonuses each month, depending on what my team does in relation to our quota. I have grown accustomed to seeing that extra money on my paycheck."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
Trust
28. This position requires a lot of strenuous activity, like lifting and working in the heat. Are there any medical issues that we should know about, which might hinder you from performing your duties.
How to Answer
The manufacturing industry requires that employees be able to meet certain load limits for lifting or have the stamina to work in sometimes difficult environments. Be honest about any limitations or medical conditions that might be triggered by strenuous activity.
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have been told not to lift anything over 40 pounds due to a surgery a few years ago. But other than that, I have no limitations and am ready to get to work."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have any limitations and would like to get started as soon as possible. I have worked in manufacturing before, and I have worked in some hot environments. I am sure I can adapt to the demands of the job."
Written by James McMechan on September 3rd, 2021