31 The Highways Agency Interview Questions & Answers

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that you have taken note of the workplace culture at The Highways Agency and how they stand out from their competitors. Check out the company website, and any online reviews, to find a common theme that makes The Highways Agency stand out from their competitors. Be prepared with specific examples from a recent news story or client reviews.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that you have a variety of competitors; however, I am most interested in working for The Highways Agency because of your strong interest in client service, and employee safety. You have won multiple industry awards which tells me that you are an innovative and growth-minded organization. Your company is forward-thinking and progressive. I would be delighted to work at The Highways Agency."

2nd Answer Example

"While researching The Highways Agency and the local market I did see that there are a few competitors in our area. What stood out to me was the enthusiasm of your team when I first applied here, and also the fact that you recently won the coveted Transportation Leadership Award. In addition to all of this, I see that The Highways Agency puts an important focus on carbon footprint. All of this makes you stand out from your competitors."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that, if hired by The Highways Agency, you would enthusiastically contribute to their safety-focused workplace environment. Discuss the importance of safety, and what it means to you. You should also mention any health and safety related training you have taken. Any current certificates and tickets are helpful to bring with you to the interview.

1st Answer Example

"Workplace health and safety are critical topics to me. Without a healthy work environment, morale will be low which creates an environment that fosters accidents and low productivity. I have multiple safety-related tickets including X, Y, and Z. In my current position, I have had zero accidents in 3 years. If hired at The Highways Agency you can be assured that I would exceed your safety expectations."

2nd Answer Example

"Without safety in the workplace, there would be complete chaos. For that reason, I believe that it's the most important factor to consider when building a team, and creating workplace policy."

How to Answer

Talk about your education experience and be sure to highlight any areas of excellence. Perhaps you earned individual awards, accolades, or scholarships. If so - be sure to mention those achievements as well!

1st Answer Example

"I completed my Engineering degree in 2011 from University of Florida. I am proud of my 3.90 GPA. I worked very hard! My biggest take away from my post-secondary experience is my knowledge of public infrastructure as well as the project management skills that I acquired. My high grades and great discipline will make me a strong fit for this role with The Highways Agency."

2nd Answer Example

"If you do not have any post-secondary experience to talk about, then you can certainly discuss any on-the-job training you've completed including workshops, courses, and certifications.

"The bulk of my industry related education has been on the job training. This training includes topics on transportation management, government policy and workplace safety."

How to Answer

Take a few minutes to bring your resume to life for the interviewer. Once you have highlighted the bulk of your experience, you can discuss some of your favorite projects or areas of interest. Avoid talking yourself into a corner when it comes to your preference of public vs. private projects. Be as diplomatic as possible by highlighting the pros of each.

1st Answer Example

"For the past four years I have been working with ABC, in the private sector. Some of my favorite recent projects have included X, Y, and Z. With that said, I also bring public sector experience from earlier in my career. That experience was also helpful because it taught me a lot about process and navigating the red tape associated with government projects. I have learned a great deal from both public and private work."

2nd Answer Example

"I have a balance of experience between public and private transportation. I have three years' experience in public transport and four years' experience in private transportation. The two sectors bring their challenges, so it is difficult to choose a preference. If I had to commit to just one, I would say that private transport brings me fresh challenges daily, which is exciting to me."

How to Answer

Onboarding new employees is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor for any employer. Assure the interviewer that you see long-term career potential with The Highways Agency. Research the company online to discover any opportunities for future growth. Perhaps they have multiple departments or locations. Where do you see yourself growing within The Highways Agency? Be enthusiastic when you discuss your long-term career plans!

1st Answer Example

"My interest is to have a long-term and successful career within transportation infrastructure. I feel that this role with The Highways Agency is a perfect next step in my career right now, but I also see room for future career growth here. You have a few leadership opportunities posted online. I read through the job description for those and am interested in working my way into a role like that with The Highways Agency one day."

2nd Answer Example

"I am looking for a long-term career opportunity within the transportation industry. I feel that this role with The Highways Agency is a perfect step in my career now, and for the future. I see that you have operations management positions open. My dream would be to earn a leadership role with The Highways Agency down the road."

How to Answer

Showing interest in gaining new skills through continued education will allow the interviewer to see you as an engaged and growth-minded candidate. Discuss any coursework that you would like to take and be sure to mention any continued education opportunities that you have recently taken if any.

Close your answer by asking the interviewer if they would like to see you take a particular course. This approach will show the interviewer that you are open to coaching and willing to expand your knowledge to make yourself the perfect fit for The Highways Agency.

1st Answer Example

"Continued education is vital to me because it allows me to remain current and competitive in this industry. Last year I was given the opportunity to take a course in A and another in B. At this moment, if I could choose any course to take, I would pick XYZ. Are there any courses you would recommend I take to round out my experience?"

2nd Answer Example

"That is a great question, and I appreciate that you consider continued education options for your employees. If I could take any related coursework, I would choose to learn more about transportation systems for public travel. Are there any particular courses you recommend that I take?"

How to Answer

How you answer this question will reveal to the interviewer a lot about your personality and willingness to get along with others in a collaborative, team-based environment. Help the interviewer to see that you would fit well with the characters present at The Highways Agency.

Give the interviewer an example of a time when you have worked with a range of personalities. This example could come from a previous work situation, your post-secondary experience, or even a volunteer opportunity.

1st Answer Example

"My current work situation is quite independent; however, I do volunteer on a weekly basis at the local homeless shelter. Every week there are new volunteers and new individuals with a range of needs. This experience has broadened my exposure a huge range of individuals. I am confident in my ability to work productively, and harmoniously, with multiple personalities in a close-working environment."

2nd Answer Example

"I find myself getting along with most people at work. I appreciate diversity in the workplace! Everyone has something to offer using their unique qualities."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to confirm that you have a genuine interest in transportation infrastructure. Perhaps you read infrastructure related magazines, follow particular engineering journals or subscribe to an industry-related blog. Briefly share with the interviewer how you stay up to date on current events related to The Highways Agency.

1st Answer Example

"I am always interested in learning more about this industry and the changes that are taking place. Most frequently, I read Pavement Publications. There are also a couple of blogs that I follow including Transport Data and Transport Now."

2nd Answer Example

"It is a challenge to stay up to date on the transportation industry, with policy changing on a regular basis. The most reliable source that I utilize is 'Transport Topics.' With that said, I love to learn about new resources. Would you mind sharing with me your favorite source for transportation-related news?"

How to Answer

Most companies in the transportation infrastructure industry need to be very cautious about who they hire. There is a chance that much of the information you are going to access could be confidential and you may be assisting with the transport of dangerous goods. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require.

1st Answer Example

"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My criminal record is clean as is my drivers' abstract. You can rest assured that if you hire me for this role with The Highways Agency, I will maintain a clean record."

2nd Answer Example

"I fully understand why a complete background check is required in this field of work. I am happy to comply with any checks that you need to conduct."

How to Answer

Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a firm idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!

1st Answer Example

"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This success showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication."

2nd Answer Example

"I have many accomplishments of which I am proud. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have in this industry."

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?

1st Answer Example

"I prefer working in a more predictable environment because I can be more effective in my tasks. With that said, I can certainly work in an unpredictable environment from time to time."

2nd Answer Example

"I am accustomed to working in an unpredictable environment and tend to prefer that pace. It's fast and makes every day different. I certainly enjoy the challenge!"

How to Answer

Being able to problem solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a valuable skill set. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios.

1st Answer Example

"I feel that it is a vital approach to create alternative scenarios in all situations. One cannot guess what will happen in the end, so it is great to be prepared for all possible outcomes."

2nd Answer Example

"I try always to create 'what-ifs' because I know that plans change and fail. Plan B is always ready to go."

How to Answer

This interview question allows you to demonstrate your ability to be a self-starter. Show the interviewer that you are a motivated individual by telling the interviewer about a specific time that you took the lead on a demanding project. Include details of your project timeline, which you led, or what you had to teach yourself for the project to be successful. Be sure to complete your answer by telling the interview what the outcome was.

1st Answer Example

"We recently had a big project within our work center. No one quite knew where to start or who should start it, so I took the initiative to volunteer and led my co-workers. We completed the project three days ahead of schedule."

2nd Answer Example

"I would say that I have a demanding task or project, nearly every day. I am self-driven and have no problem taking the initiative to get the job done. Just yesterday I headed up the installation of a new software module. It was tedious work, but I knew the result would be worth the time and effort."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to see that you proactively go after what you want and that you will act as a positive change-agent when you see room for improvement in the workplace. The worst way to answer this question would be to say 'I didn't have the power to change anything in the organization, so I quit.'

This question is not an opportunity to complain about your previous job or company! Think about personal changes you could make that would have made your job easier, improved your skills or furthered your education. You cannot change others, but there is always the option to upgrade yourself!

1st Answer Example

"My previous company did not allow for a lot of employee feedback or input so I chose to focus on ways that I could better my performance instead. I took many weekend workshops on various topics such as Excel, Communication in the Workplace, The Art of Negotiations, and some human resource related courses as well. My boss did notice an improvement in my performance, so I formally suggested that the company pay for every employee to take one course per year. They agreed and implemented my suggestion. I believe it's easier to 'do' rather than 'tell.' My example of performance improvement was what they needed to make some changes."

2nd Answer Example

"That is a great question! I would have participated more in external company events. Life gets busy, but this is a great opportunity to network with your peers outside of the daily grind of business."

How to Answer

Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.

1st Answer Example

"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."

2nd Answer Example

"I have been meticulous when paving my career path. Things have gone very well for me so far, and I am thankful for that. This position with The Highways Agency will be a perfect compliment to both my short and long-term career plan."

How to Answer

There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the apps you have experience using and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.

1st Answer Example

"I have used a variety of team-based messaging applications. I am best versed in Brosix, AOL Instant Messenger, and Freedcamp. No matter which system you use I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."

2nd Answer Example

"My current company does not utilize any team-based messaging applications, but I am familiar with the team and project-based management programs such as Trello and Wrike."

How to Answer

Are you able to be productive in any environment? Are there particular types of situations that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment offered in this position before the interview.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and found that I could be very productive when there was the "

2nd Answer Example

"I work best in an environment where a positive and healthy culture is encouraged. I am great with autonomy and working independently; however, I am also able to collaborate with my coworkers very well."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know 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?

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 stress out by the multitude of tasks ahead of me."

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some suggestions on how to handle a large workload:

- List your tasks and prioritize them
- Think of which tasks add to the company's bottom line, and start there (Closest to the money!)
- Exhale. Relax for a minute and collect yourself
- Organize your tasks by which ones you can complete independently and which ones you need help with
- Take sufficient breaks so you do not exhaust yourself
- Communicate your struggles with your leadership or team"

How to Answer

If you have an expense account or resource allowance, it is very respectful to the company to be as thoughtful with that allowance as possible. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have been able to stretch company resources.

1st Answer Example

"I have recently implemented a schedule that allows for ride-sharing rewards which have cut down on our company's fuel expense by $9000 per month. I am quite proud of this initiative because it is not only financially responsible but also environmentally friendly."

2nd Answer Example

"My current organization runs quite lean so, a big part of my job is to ensure that our resources are utilized as efficiently as possible. This year I wrote a new procedure manual dedicated strictly to cost savings efforts. The topics included energy efficiency and recycling."

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 job 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 clearly.

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 so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my business development tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."

2nd Answer Example

"I try to leave the small, quick tasks for last. I do this to ensure that the more complicated parts of my projects are taken care of right away. This way, nothing comes back to bite me later on, as the deadline approaches."

How to Answer

You have likely gained many valuable skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include capabilities that will potentially benefit this potential new employer.

1st Answer Example

"In the past few years I was able to upgrade my education while still working full time. The biggest skill that I gained was my ability to multi-task as I worked the dual role of employee and student. I also have strong skills in a variety of Microsoft programs such as PowerPoint and Excel."

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some transferable skills that you may have acquired along the way:

- Leading a team
- Intricate problem solving
- Particular software experience
- Organizational training
- Time management
- Self-motivation
- Listening skills
- Written communication
- Verbal communication
- Giving presentations
- Training new hires
- Hiring or on-boarding
- Research"

How to Answer

Ethical dilemmas in the workplace will come up from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you can handle these types of difficulties with professionalism and poise.

1st Answer Example

"I have never been told to lie to a fellow employee or supervisor on the job. If I were to be asked to lie, I absolutely would not do that. I am not the type of personality to be pushed around on the job. I will always be myself and keep my integrity first."

2nd Answer Example

"Yes, I have been asked to lie on the job before. In a previous role, our inventory count was off. My co-worker wanted to go home, and he suggested that I lie about our count. I refused to lie, and we stayed late. I would always choose honesty over lying, any day."

How to Answer

Were you asked to take on a particular task, project, or responsibility that gave you a strong sense of enjoyment? Talk to the interviewer about this specific task and what it meant to you.

1st Answer Example

"In additional to my regular responsibilities, my previous employer also asked me to be the head of our social committee. This ask was very exciting for me because I love to have a workplace where people know each other, are comfortable having a meaningful conversation, and where everyone can let loose now and then. I planned four social events per year, and the turnout was always wonderful. Employee engagement went up, and some powerful connections were made."

2nd Answer Example

"I would say that my favorite responsibility in my current position is the on-boarding and training of new employees. It's great to see their excitement for what's to come, and their passion for the industry. "

How to Answer

Receiving feedback from a manager or supervisor can be tough. You can't always predict what they may say, and you also can't always predict how you might feel in response. Learning how to respond when given a performance review or negative feedback is essential.

1st Answer Example

"Even though it can be difficult to hear criticism, I always pause before I respond and take time to think about it first. If it's something that catches me by surprise, I usually ask for clarification. I want to grow and improve so the more specific my supervisor can be, the more helpful it is."

2nd Answer Example

"I greatly appreciate constructive feedback. I am a firm believer in the idea that feedback should be implemented quickly after it's given. It's important to be able to professionally give and receive feedback."

How to Answer

This question challenges you to think about how you act as a leader in your daily life. Even if you're not leading a team, you can still demonstrate the qualities of a leader!

Give an example of how you coached a coworker who was having difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. You can be a motivator and a positive communicator in any situation at work!

1st Answer Example

"I naturally take on a leader and mentor-ship type of role with my co-workers. In one instance, I had a new coworker who was having some troubles fitting in. I took her out for lunch and talked to her a bit about the workplace culture and semantics surrounding the various departments. I wanted her to stay and enjoy her employment with us, so I took the responsibility of ensuring she was settling in well. I believe there are always opportunities for leadership - you have to keep your eyes open!"

2nd Answer Example

"I demonstrate leadership ability on a daily basis by effectively managing my projects and clients independently. It shows that I can take the lead on a project without having my hand held."

How to Answer

This question can be a tough one because everyone wants to be liked and considered personable. However, being a dynamic leader can make you a proponent for change in the organization. A hiring manager is going to want to know that they are hiring a change agent for their organization vs. a friend for their employees.

1st Answer Example

"I do feel that I am a personable individual, but I won't always be everyone's cup of tea. I would much rather be a dynamic leader. As a dynamic leader I can ensure that the organization is benefiting from my presence and, at the same time, I can lead my team by example."

2nd Answer Example

"If I had to choose, I would rather be a dynamic leader. People cannot deny the ways that you impact their life, regardless of how they feel about you."

How to Answer

Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creativity and how you have implemented that desire in the workplace. Even if you do not consider yourself to be a 'creative person,' there is a chance that you have made creative minded decisions in your career.

1st Answer Example

"I do consider myself to be a creative individual. One example of this would be the telephone sales scripts that I crafted for our inside sales team. They were lively and effective, and sales increased by 23% in the first 90 days of implementation."

2nd Answer Example

"I am someone who alternates back and forth with the right/left brain, but I will always consider myself a very creative person. I admire the creativity and unconventional thinking in business and arts."

How to Answer

A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.

1st Answer Example

"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 plus a car allowance of $900/month and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

2nd Answer Example

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

How to Answer

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site!

Here are some sample questions:

- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

1st Answer Example

2nd Answer Example

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

How to Answer

From your work history, picture a co-worker who didn't carry their weight or had a difficult personality. Maybe they were unmotivated or preoccupied with their personal life. Think about what bothered you about this person and how you were affected by their behavior.

Most importantly, the interviewer wants to know how you let this person's behavior affect you and your work performance.

Avoid taking this as an opportunity to complain about someone; instead, view it as an opportunity to showcase your ability to deal with difficult people while maintaining your productivity.

1st Answer Example

"In my previous position, I did have a coworker who didn't pull their weight which created more work for the rest of the team. Our team started to complete most of the tasks when it came to group projects. It didn't take much time before our manager noticed this particular individual was slacking. I feel like, in most instances, the underachievers will weed themselves out over time, and it's rarely worth making a fuss over."

2nd Answer Example

"In my first position out of college, I worked with a person who enjoyed gossip in the workplace. I found that I could redirect her to work by giving a quick reply and then asking her a pointed work question, which would get her back on task. There were a few key takeaways from this experience. I learned how to concentrate through chatter or disruption better than before, and I perfected my skills at refocusing someone else to the task at hand."

How to Answer

Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.

1st Answer Example

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."

2nd Answer Example

"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."