28 Toyota Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Common Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Compatibility Questions
- 7. Competency Questions
- 8. Customer Service Questions
- 9. Education Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Illegal Questions
- 12. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 13. Performance Based Questions
- 14. Salary Questions
- 15. Teamwork Questions
- 16. Trust Questions
Accomplishment
1. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.
How to Answer
You have likely gained many great skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include capabilities that will potentially benefit Toyota, if you are hired.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 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 cold-calling skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Adaptability
2. Would you describe yourself as a structured person or one who likes to go with the flow?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to assess how balanced a person you are. In this position, you will have times when you need to multitask and times when you will need to focus to complete a task. This is an excellent time to highlight the skills you possess and show the interviewer that you are capable of completing a task when asked. Be positive and enthusiastic about your willingness to use the correct time management technique that the situation may warrant.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would say that I am a little of both. I like organization and structure, but I have taught myself to multitask when the situation is needed. I try to make to-do lists in the morning and work hard to get them done. I multitask because I can easily move off that list in order to work on issues more pressing, like selling a car to the customer right in front of me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have always like to be freer in my daily activities so that I can handle what comes along. However, in my career, I have had to learn to be more organized and structured so that I can better perform my job. I keep notes to insure that I am getting everything done."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Adaptability
3. The automobile industry has had to adapt to the fact that every consumer now has a computer in their smartphones. How have you had to use a smartphone in your previous position, and are you comfortable using one?
How to Answer
The digital age is here and an increasing number of customers shop online for almost everything. The interviewer must determine if you are equipped to handle this trend. Not everyone is comfortable with a smartphone, but it is an essential tool for today's salesperson. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of this technology and are capable of using it to your advantage.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to use all kinds of social media to increase sales. I have a smartphone and use it to make videos and send texts and emails along with making calls. I have a lot of experience in cold and warm calling. Many of my sales have come from great follow-up habits. I will also call previous buyers to up-sell on our maintenance services or to ask for referrals. I find that it's a lucrative way to spend any of my downtime."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my present position, we were required to make 50 calls and send 100 texts to clients each day. In addition, I learned how to use social media, Facebook, and Instagram to support my efforts in sales. I would love to have additional training in this area."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Career Goals
4. At Toyota we like to hire primarily from inside our dealerships. Would you have any interest in advancement within the company, if it was offered to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to hire an employee who plans to stay for the long haul. Talk to the interviewer about the type of career growth that you would like to see with Toyota and your willingness to expand beyond this present position. Be positive about your future. Assure the hiring manager that you look forward to developing your skills for years to come, should Toyota decide to hire you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I love sales and would be thrilled to have a lucrative career with Toyota. What excites me most about this opportunity is that there is room for advancement in a team leadership role. I would like to work my way to a sales management position in the future if and when my superiors feel I was ready."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would welcome the opportunity to learn and grow as an employee and a leader. Because Toyota is such a large company, I see a lot of room for take on new challenges and make a career here."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I would love to begin and end my career here. I am loyal to companies that I work for when they offer room for advancement. I worked for _____ for the last 4 years and the only reason I left was that I moved across the United States. I am currently going for my Bachelor's Degree in Business Management, so I'm sure that will open up opportunities for me in this company."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a great start, but I suggest developing your response even further to show the type of growth opportunities that you're open to. What would be your next step professionally within the company? How will you work toward that?
Career Goals
5. At Toyota, we want to hire employees who are self-motivated. What are some ways that you motivate yourself toward your goals?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to assess if you are the kind of person who can self-motivate so that you don't have to be constantly encouraged to do your job. You don't have to be a manager or a team leader to motivate others. Be positive and energetic as you share ways you motivate yourself to improve. Reassure the hiring manager that you will not need to be constantly supervised, that you are capable of keeping a positive attitude even in slow or stressful situations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that success in sales is all about attitude, and that means I have to find ways to keep a positive one going. I listen to motivational messages on my way into work and try to remind myself during the day of some nugget of wisdom I might have heard. I also try to keep a pep in my step throughout the day so the customer can see and sense my enthusiasm. Being positive and showing up consistently can also make a difference, so I try to exercise these practices every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I like to motivate others on my team by creating a fun and healthy competition and use it to motivate myself. Most people that I know respond well to that type of attitude. In addition, I try to learn and read sales books so that I can keep going even when my professional life gets tough."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Common
6. 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 Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I can make myself available at any time, with some notice. The ideal times for me to interview are between 8-10 AM and 2-5 PM Monday through Friday."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to make myself available at your earliest convenience. I am very interested in this role and will be open to any time you might desire."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Communication
7. At Toyota, we believe in good communication between managers and employees, tell me about your relationship with your previous manager.
How to Answer
Employers want 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. The interviewer is also looking for whether you might be a malcontent kind of employee, who bad-mouths leadership. This type of attitude will signal the hiring manager not to hire you. Be positive about speaking about a former boss, and assure the interviewer that you believe in the power of clear communication.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 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 an effective leader from whom I learned a lot. I believe that good communication is the key to a good relationship between employee and supervisor."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 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. If I were to experience conflict in the workplace I would address the situation as soon as it would be appropriate. I would take it to them privately and in a calm manner. It's never a good idea to let conflict simmer and I'm not afraid to receive feedback as long as it is done in a positive and constructive manner."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Communication
8. At Toyota, listening to our guests is critically important to our success. Share with me how you work to listen to your customers in your present position.
How to Answer
Every company has a procedure in place to collect and respond to customer feedback. The interviewer is trying to assess if you are a person who talks over the customer rather than one who listens so that you can best meet their needs. Assure the hiring manager that you are a person who will not spend your time talking yourself out of a sale.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that listening to a client is crucially important. Customers do not like to be sold. They do like to be heard. I practice active listening, by asking questions, taking notes, and reviewing items when I think I have heard what they are saying. I find that listening to a customer can not only help make a sale, but it also ensures client satisfaction after the fact."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Active listening is crucial to making new customers and keeping old ones happy. I have been trained to take notes, ask questions and to not interrupt when the client is talking. I believe that customers do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. One way is to be responsive to their needs, you cannot meet their needs if you don't listen to what they tell you they want."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Compatibility
9. At Toyota, we believe in a sales process and base our methods on it, tell me about your sales philosophy.
How to Answer
Most dealerships teach a sales process called the road to the sale. These sales steps help the salesperson move the client toward a buying decision. The interviewer is asking this question in order to understand whether you have had any exposure to sales methods and how important they are to you. Spend a moment thinking about sales training that you have had, and be positive about your ability to create buying opportunities for your clients as you share."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My sales philosophy is to create a good first impression and then move the client to a buying decision. I do this by listening to their needs, demonstrating the value of what I am selling, and negotiating to close the sale. Every step is important, and I use this as a guideline to help keep me focused. I look forward to expanding my knowledge in this area so that I can get even better at sales for Toyota."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"My sales philosophy is an art that I have to a science. I will start with a good impression every time, and a good environment to discourage leaving. I will listen to all the needs and wants of the customer and show off the product and demonstrate how it meets their needs, then negotiate a price that influences a buy. I definitely would like to expand my knowledge in the sales area to become a stronger salesperson for Toyota."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a great start, but I suggest quantifying your sales philosophy by adding specific numbers or data. Example: "In meeting the needs of my customers, I strive to increase revenue 10 percent from year over year."
Compatibility
10. At Toyota, the dealership has retail hours that include nights and weekends. Share with me any limitations you might have regarding times you can work?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know if there are any times when you will be unavailable to work. The hours most salespeople work include nights and weekends. Be honest about your limitations and any scheduling conflicts. Be positive about working whatever hours you are scheduled for.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my present position, I have to work several nights and weekends and even on holidays. I do have a Tuesday night class for my MBA that I am taking, so I would prefer to have that day free in order to prepare for the class, but otherwise I am available."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous positions I had to work weekends. I would prefer to have Sunday mornings off, if possible so that I can attend church with my family. However, I am available to work any other time you might need."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Compatibility
11. Your job at Toyota may require you to stand on your feet for extended periods of time. Share with me any limitations you might have about this.
How to Answer
Like most dealerships, salespersons have to take their turn standing and waiting for customers to come. You will need to be able to stand on your feet for extended hours at a time. This is an opportunity to discuss with the hiring manager any medical limitations you feel you might have that would prevent this from happening.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was required to stand out in the parking lot for hours awaiting customers, so I do not see any reason why I could not fulfill this requirement. I understand it is part of the job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am able-bodied, and in good health, so I do not foresee any issues with this aspect of the work."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Compatibility
12. Toyota believes in supporting social causes, like working to protect the environment, what causes are important to you and why?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to get a feel for whether you are planning to capture the vision of Toyota to make the world a better place. Your willingness to work for a company with social responsibility may indicate your level of engagement. This is a great time to share with the hiring manager any research you may have done. Share causes that are important to you, and be quick to highlight any that the company might have in common with you. Be positive and talk to the interviewer about the great attributes of Toyota that make you want to work specifically for them.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe in leaving as little of a carbon footprint as possible, which is why I recycle and support several environmental groups. I see that Toyota is also committed to a cleaner environment too, and that matters to me. I want to be part of a professional culture that shares the same values I have."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"This dealership really believes in supporting the community. I know that you have a team that builds houses for Habitat for Humanity, which is a cause I support. In addition, I take part in the 5k for Alzheimer's that happens every year, because of a grandfather who had dementia toward the end of his life. I look forward to working for Toyota and being able to take an active role in making the world a better place."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Compatibility
13. At Toyota, creating a great first impression is important, which is why we require a uniform and enforce appearance standards, tell me about your previous position, and any uniform they might have provided.
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to determine if there might be an issue preventing your employment, such as tattoos, or facial piercings. Most dealerships require their sales staff to wear polos, or shirts and ties. This is an opportunity to talk with the hiring manager about anything that you might have concerns over and to get them out in the open.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, the company had us wear a colored polo shirt and khaki slacks. They also provided laundry services for the uniform. I have no issue wearing a uniform, and actually like not having to choose my own wardrobe. I would be interested in hearing about what your appearance standards might be if you wished to share them with me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very interested in discussing the uniform standards that Toyota requires. I have not had to wear a uniform in my present position, but I don't believe I would have a problem wearing one."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Competency
14. Would you consider yourself a creative person?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creativity and how you have implemented that creativity in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I do. In my previous employment I drafted a script for our inside sales team which hi-lighted our brand, our focus and our team approach. After we implemented it, sales increased by twenty-three percent."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that creativity shows itself in many forms. I am an effective creative writer, and I'm adept at generating ideas and developing plans around them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Customer Service
15. At Toyota we put a lot of pride in our customer service and track our performance through customer feedback. Tell me your thoughts about customer service.
How to Answer
Toyota is no different than any other retail company. Without great customer service, Toyota would not be in business. The interviewer needs to know that you share this core value. Assure the interviewer 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 Toyota puts forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my present position, I go above and beyond my customers' expectations by underpromising and over-delivering. I allot a certain amount of time for the car repair I am meant to finish, but I try to beat that time. I would rather conservatively estimate the length of time I will take and then deliver in full earlier than expected, than to sound impressive with a short turnaround only to under-deliver. I also commit to my follow-up calls. I always call a client when I say that I will. My customers appreciate my sense of responsibility and respect for their time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The best way to provide great customer service is to 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 Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Customer Service
16. In this position, there are times when a customer will interrupt a task you are involved in. Tell me about how you might handle an interruption of your time.
How to Answer
Unfortunately, customers do not always follow our prepared plans. At Toyota, you will be forced to deal with the constant pressures of customers demanding your time and attention. The interviewer needs to determine if you are the kind of person who gets frustrated when your plans are disrupted. Be positive in sharing with the hiring manager. Assure them that you have the patience you need to set aside a project to meet a more pressing situation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"At my present position, customers are constantly coming to the counter, so I am used to being interrupted from a task. I greet each customer with a smile, and take up their cause as best I can."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I don't ever want to appear exasperated with a guest when they come to the dealership. After all, they are the reason I have a job. I always want to make them feel welcomed. I know that the task I was working on will still be there even after the customer has left and that I will have time to get back to it."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Education
17. Toyota is one of the largest auto manufacturers in the world. How familiar are you with our company and what we offer?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have done some research on Toyota and you were impressed by what you found. This is a great opportunity for you to highlight a couple of things you learned in researching the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I know Toyota is a Japanese auto-maker who believes in a streamlined approach to making cars. They consistently produce around 10 million cars, trucks, and SUVs. They have consistently been rated as number one in safety and technology features as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"One of the things that most impressed me about Toyota is that they have consistently been on the cutting edge of technology for years. I am excited about the inroads they have made in electric vehicles. They were one of the first companies to offer hybrid technology in the Prius. Now they lead the industry in cutting edge safety equipment and autonomous driving."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Experience
18. At Toyota we like to train our employees in the features and functions of our models. Share with me any specific sales training you might have had in your previous position.
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know if you have received any formal sales training in order to determine what additional training you might need once you begin your position. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to share with the hiring manager what you know about sales or service, and how the previous training can be used as a foundation for additional growth. Be positive and confident as you respond, and be sure to embrace any additional training that Toyota may offer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to learn the process of the sale, so that we could help the customer find and purchase the right vehicle. I would like to spend time learning the models Toyota offers so that I can use that information to be a successful salesperson."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would be thrilled to take additional training that Toyota offered. I learned a lot about the process of sales in my former employment, and I feel that laid a good foundation for me. I do want to know your product well so that I can continue to grow and develop my skills as a successful sales consultant."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Illegal
19. I see that you have recently worked for one of our direct competitors. Do you have a non-compete agreement in place?
How to Answer
In competitive markets such as the automobile industry, you may sometimes be asked to sign a non-compete or non-disclosure agreement. Be honest and open with the interviewer about any existing restrictions you may have when it comes to working for a competing organization.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I did sign a non-compete with my current company; however, it just asks that I do not purposefully poach any of my clients from the past three years. I am not restricted when it comes to accepting offers of employment from competing dealerships."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have a non-compete agreement: "I am happy to say that I do not have any restrictions to my employment. I am really looking forward to getting started with your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Job Satisfaction
20. At Toyota 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 wants to know what attracted you to apply for a position at Toyota. Having a genuine interest in the automobile industry can indicate that you are looking to make this job a career rather than just a temporary stop-gap. Think about the factors that stand out to you concerning a career with Toyota. When responding to this question, show that you have researched the company, by sharing some ways Toyota may appeal to you. Be excited about the possibility of a future with the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Toyota is always on the cutting edge of style and technology and the thought of working for one of the largest manufacturers of automobiles in the world appeals to me. My interest in automobiles came from my father who was a die-hard Toyota fan. Every car he purchased in his life was made by Toyota or Lexus. I look forward to bringing that same kind of passion we shared to work with me every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Toyota produces some of the safest and most dependable vehicles on the road today. I find the idea of working for a manufacturer that is always refining and improving its technology exciting. The automobile industry is always changing, with new trends and exciting innovations. I really want to be a part of that kind of culture."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I just spent the last 8 years with all my closest friends being mechanics and learning new things has always intrigued me, so I spent these years learning about different vehicles and I know so many people love Toyotas. Two of my friends mostly worked on VW vehicles but, I don't have a favorite major car brand yet. Working with Toyota highly intrigues me, and I have loved Lexus vehicles since my aunt got one."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
This is an excellent start and definitely captures your interest in the auto interest. What is specifically about Toyota that interests you, though? I suggest doing your research and picking 1-2 areas to focus on. For example, "I am interested in pursuing a career at Toyota because ________________________and________________________."
Performance Based
21. Tell me about your sales performance this year.
How to Answer
Numbers and percentages don't lie! This is the best time to brag about yourself and your achievements in your current / most recent position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"So far this year, I am 113% to target with three more months to go. I have been the top sales performer in our dealership for the past five months. I attribute this to my great follow-up habits as well as my strong cold-calling skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My supervisor is pleased with my performance so far this year. I fully expect to exceed my targets this quarter."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Performance Based
22. The automobile industry is competitive. Are you comfortable working in a competitive environment?
How to Answer
Often, positions within the automotive industry are sales and numbers-driven. The interviewer needs to know that you will use the competition you have with other sales staff to drive you toward excellence. If not, then a sales position is not the employment you should seek. Assure the hiring manager that you thrive on friendly competition, and be positive about your ability to compete for sales and recognition.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am certainly accustomed to working in a competitive environment. My previous positions include keeping track of daily, weekly, and monthly sales. I love to see my name at the top of the sales board every morning and use the tracking as a way to boost my production. I can hardly wait to show Toyota what I can do."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been a competitive individual. From playing team sports my entire life to working in commissioned retail environments. I am comfortable with some friendly competition. In my present position, we love to have little contests between team members, where we encourage each other or compete to get the next sale. I love getting recognized for my contribution, so I am ready to get going for Toyota!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Performance Based
23. At Toyota we set daily, weekly, and monthly targets for all of our sales employees. Share with me your comfortableness with operating under a system that creates quotas and then pushes you to meet them.
How to Answer
The interviewer will need to know if you are the kind of person who can function under specific sales goals and quotas and the pressures those can bring. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with strict sales targets. If you have worked in this type of environment before, talk about what you did to ensure that your quotas were met. Be positive about your ability to work under pressure associated with sales expectations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my current position we are assessed by units sold and gross profit made on each car deal. These metrics are measured daily and are discussed in our sales meetings. I am consistently a top performer in my company. I do thrive on high expectations because those goals spur me to do my very best. I use them as a motivational tool."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My current position tracks the numbers constantly. I am always a top performer and I consistently meet my objectives. I love having the opportunity to set goals and then work hard to meet them. We were also graded on our customer service index, having to maintain a score of 9.5 each month. I look forward to bringing this same kind of performance level to my career at Toyota."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Salary
24. Many positions in our company are fully commissioned. Are you confident enough in your sales abilities to work on 100% commission?
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question because most dealerships have a commission-driven pay plan. If you have not worked in this kind of plan - you might get frustrated because your compensation varies from week to week. Frustrated employees usually don't last very long. Talking about salary and compensation expectations can be uncomfortable, but it is an essential conversation between yourself and the hiring manager. Be open and communicative when it comes to your needs and compensation desires.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have worked on 100% commission in my last two sales positions; however, that is not my preference for the first few months as I become comfortable in a new position. Currently, I am on a compensation guarantee of $4K/month or full commission, whichever is greater. I would be very interested in the type of plan Toyota is offering."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in a 100% commission role for many years and have had no trouble making an adequate living. I am comfortable enough with my sales abilities and customer base to take on another commission-driven role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
Teamwork
25. At Toyota, your position will require you to work with other departments. Describe for me how you have worked with employees or bosses of other departments in the past to achieve the goals for the company.
How to Answer
There is a good chance that you will interact with lots of different department employees during a normal workday. The interviewer needs to know that you will work with other departments to accomplish the goals of the company. He is trying to assess your ability to be a team player. Be positive and energetic when describing a time you worked with another department, and how that communication benefited you both.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to meet daily with the accounting office to insure that all invoices and purchase orders were done correctly. I developed a good relationship with them, and we worked well together. I do not expect to have any issues with anyone in your organization, and I look forward to a chance to show Toyota that I can be a team player."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my present position, I have to work with our parts department to meet a client's need when he wanted an additional accessory on the car he was purchasing, like floor mats or remote start. I learned the value of putting everything on paper so that the purchasing department could more easily keep track of it. I had a good relationship with them, and we worked together to get the client exactly what they wanted."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"At my previous employer, while working with the project managers and as a storage specialist, I had to work with practically every other department to satisfy customer needs. I had a good relationship with every department, there was a mutual helpful vibe (which is rather hard to do on that base). Others understood I would do my best to make their jobs easier when they did the same for me. All of the project managers would send me to speak with the different departments (mechanics, storage, shipping) because they knew that I already had established relationships with every department and could work easily with anyone. The other departments loved me because I would learn what they did in each department and learned what I could do that would make their lives easier."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
Great response! It sounds like you have excellent interpersonal skills and have mastered the art of collaboration.
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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, volunteer work you did that might have helped prepare you for your employment at Toyota.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for six months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become obsolete."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 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 eight months following that lay off. Luckily, I received a good severance package from my previous employer. I took the time to learn Spanish which I think will be an asset to reaching the large Hispanic population in our city."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
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27. At this Toyota dealership, at times you will be privy to a customer's private information. Tell me about some of the ways you have safeguarded and protected a client's privacy.
How to Answer
In this age of identity theft, companies are constantly on the vigil against data breaches. The interviewer needs to know that you are going to take this responsibility seriously. Reassure the hiring manager that you are honest and diligent enough to be careful when handling sensitive documents. Be positive about your past experiences as you share.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my present position, I was required to take a customer's info down when filling out a credit application. We were not allowed to leave them lying around and always had to insure we had it in a folder, even when carrying it to the desk. I have been a victim of identity theft so I take this very seriously."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Most of our work was done online so the customer was responsible for entering and reviewing their own information. Credit applications were sent directly to the finance manager, so I didn't have access to much of the customer's data. I do, however, take these matters seriously. It is critical to maintain the integrity of the client's personal information."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
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28. Your position at Toyota will require you to operate motor vehicles. Share with me any limitations you might have in this area.
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that there are no issues with your license because the insurance company will not allow him to hire anyone with a bad record. This is an opportunity for you to discuss any limitations that might be on your license. The admission may not allow you to be hired, but the interviewer will appreciate your honesty and respect for his time.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have no issues with my driving record and have not had any violation in over six years. I think I will have no problems operating any of Toyota's vehicles."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have a valid driver's license. I do have a moving violation for speeding on it, but the ticket was resolved and I am not under any restrictions currently. "
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2021