Unilever HireVue Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Introduce yourself.
What You Need to Know
This question is an icebreaker. It's intended to get you to lower your guard and relax and determine if your personality fits the role. The interviewer also wants to get to know you better to more accurately evaluate your responses. Nonverbal cues are collected as data points. HireVue assesses those data points to identify the top performers and those who'll be most suited to the company's goals and culture. It also allows for side-by-side comparisons with the other candidates. There are no do-overs, and you'll only get one opportunity to record your answers. You'll be allowed roughly 20-30 seconds per question to formulate your response. You'll get three minutes to record each answer, so practice beforehand.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 16th, 2023
How to Answer
Hirevue uses proprietary machine learning algorithms that analyze data points found in the video interview, which allows the company's hiring authority to study those non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions, eye movements, body movements, clothes details, and voice nuances. Keep it natural. Show your personality. Wear professional clothing appropriate to the role. Maintain eye contact with the camera as if you're speaking face-to-face with a person. Make sure to speak clearly, and avoid speech crutches and long pauses.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I grew up in a Bayshore, Long Island, NY. As soon as I was legally able to, I got a job in marketing with my uncle's advertising firm while on my summer vacation from school. I took a gap year before college for business management and administration. I've always had a strong work ethic. I graduated from high school with a 4.0 GPA and repeated this success throughout my four years of college."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I am a young economics graduate with working experience in project management support. I have a positive attitude, a friendly and confident nature with a desire to work independently or as part of a team working with high standards and taking responsibility. I look forward to improving and seeing my team thrive. I take ownership of errors and problem as I try to resolve them quickly. I have a continuous drive for growth, resilience, and determination."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
Great introduction that features a bit of your experience as well as your personality characteristics!
Behavioral
2. If you could, would you chose a different career path than the one you chose?
What You Need to Know
This question aims to reveal whether you chose your career path intentionally or if you fell into it. The interviewers are also curious about how dedicated you are to your career choices and whether you'll abandon it the first chance you get. Your answer will allow them to determine if you'll be a reliable employee and whether you see yourself as a long-term fit.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Answer the question as honestly as you can. If you have chosen your career and are truly dedicated to your pursuits, then say so. If there is another position you are striving for in your career progression, share where you hope your career will take you. Remember to practice. The assessment vendor will screen you on your non-verbal cues, facial expressions, eye movements, body movements, tells and posture, and the nuances of tone and choice of words.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I wouldn't say so. The grass is never greener on the other side. You're bound to take your attitude with you wherever you go. The grass is green under your feet, or it isn't. Some people choose their career and then feel unsatisfied when it doesn't meet their expectations. That's happened to me once or twice on my career journey, but I adjusted because that's what you do. I wouldn't say I fell into my career. My journey just took me to places I hadn't expected. But that's life. So, no, I am happy with the choices I've made. I am responsible for my actions, and I owned that from an early age. I am right where I am supposed to be because all my choices led me here, and I'm proud of the choices I've made. My choices are what defines me."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I’ve always wanted to read economics and focus on international trade. It supports a sustainable business environment that provides resources for today without diminishing it for the future."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a good career interest to share with the interviewer.
Behavioral
3. What makes you feel fulfilled in life?
What You Need to Know
Offer something fulfilling that can relate to your personal and professional life, but avoid something generic or ambiguous, such as 'a job well done,' which will sound insincere. Remember, you want them to get to know you and to stand apart from the other candidates.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
While preparing for your recorded on-camera interview, keep in mind that your surroundings are also a reflection of you as a professional. You'll want your focus to be on you and not on your background. Make sure your space is organized, free of distractions, and work-appropriate.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Just doing the right thing for the right reasons. For example, friendship, or relationships in general, should be unconditional. You don't keep a tally of favors done for favors owed. You help someone because it's the right thing to do. That's it. That should be gratifying enough. So, my integrity makes me feel fulfilled. It's like the Dalai Lama said, karma is best defined by our self-fulfilling or self-afflicting emotions. If you do something crummy, those negative energies immediately afflict us. That's instant karma. It can affect our psychology, physiology, mental health, and physical health. Doing something kind or out of integrity boosts your mental health, your physical health, all of it. So, I feel fulfilled by following these principles in everything I do."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"Growing up as a kid, I appreciated accolades a lot. As an individual, I get fulfilled whenever I’m able to complete a task. I have a scorecard book where I tend to record my wins (big or small). I take time to check this record to keep myself motivated and receive a personal accolade."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
These are excellent ways to stay motivated at work!
Behavioral
4. What do you do in your spare time?
What You Need to Know
The assessment vendor is evaluating your personality, interests, and motivators. Stay away from anything that might present a conflict with the other answers you'll deliver. For example, if you claim you have wide open availability but then reveal you have a 7-night-a-week gig as a lounge club singer, that will present an obvious red flag.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Share hobbies and interests that may advertise some skills that could prove valuable to the recruiter, who will later review the assessment vendor interviews. Find relatable points of common interest. Having common or relatable interests can go a long way in establishing strong relationships. The less guarded you are about your personal life, the more it shows you'll be able to foster interpersonal work relationships. Again, practice in front of a mirror while trying to come across as naturally as possible. Make eye contact, exude confidence, and communicate clearly. Even though you are talking to the algorithm, you want to imagine you are speaking to a real person. But try not to come across as too rehearsed. You don't want to sound wooden or dull.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I always keep busy. Often I go trail running and hiking. But I'll often combine this with picking up trash or litter, helping keep our green spaces more pristine. I believe we all need to do our part when we can afford the time to do so. When I was growing up, my parents ingrained these principles into me. I rarely needed to do chores because they showed me that if you see something that needs doing - picking up trash or wiping down the counters - just do it. As a result, I never suffer from task paralysis or task procrastination. I do it when I see it, and then it never hangs over my head. So, when I am out and about, I do this in my neighborhood, my parks, or work."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I participate in activities to refill my energy. I spend time with my family and friends, taking out time to have a work-life balance. I seek out activities that won’t diminish my attitude to work. I take out time to listen to music to keep my spirits high, I watch series to keep me focused and I listen to podcasts on mind-blowing personal topics. I also seek out opportunities to learn and improve my skills."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
These are all great hobbies and interests to share with the interviewer.
Behavioral
5. What is your favorite Unilever product and why?
What You Need to Know
The assessment vendor is trying to determine how familiar you are with Unilever. They are interested to know if you are genuinely interested in working for them or if you are playing the numbers game and just trying to find any job anywhere. They are also curious if you are sincerely a fan of some of their products. They want to hire someone who will serve as a better representative of their brand, which means they want to hire an employee who is also a customer.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Perform your research before your interview. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the company, its core values, and its product line. You'll not only want to exhibit that you've done your homework but also be able to refresh yourself on your product knowledge and identify those brands which are most familiar to you. Be sincere in your answer and try to come across as naturally as possible.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Seventh Generation is one of my favorites. This product line is always in my home - no dyes, all-natural, and often no scents or allergens. There is no better alternative. I am very environmentally conscientious. This is a matter of integrity for me, to do whatever I can to reduce my carbon footprint. I am grateful for Unilever's part in making this more easily accessible to do."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"Love, at first sight, is real. My first encounter with a Unilever product was my experience using the Dove cream. Before then I never really appreciated the use of cream but the product wore me confidence. Since then I’ve encountered other products but Dove Care has my love."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
Great!
Behavioral
6. How would you describe your brand?
What You Need to Know
A brand has its own set of core values and a mission statement through which it aims to predictably deliver. This establishes brand loyalty through consistently delivering the quality of a product. A career-minded professional who takes this approach will more effectively represent their employer's brand. Consider how your core values and mission statement ensure you consistently perform and deliver.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Not everyone has a personal mission statement or core values to brand themselves. Depending on the person, it can be challenging to do so. When trying to identify your brand, reflect on your moral code, your integrity, and the best parts of who you are. How you perceive yourself may differ from how others perceive you. Remain conscious of your body language throughout the interview process. Make sure your answers remain consistent.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I'd say my brand is defined by transparency and positivity. My key phrases would be, 'What you see is what you get;' 'where there is a will, there is a way;' and 'luck is where you find it.'"
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Behavioral
7. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What You Need to Know
How you answer this question will give the hiring company insight into your self-awareness and emotional intelligence and how you identify your merits and growth opportunities. Provide personal strengths that set you apart from the other candidates. Don't mention items already listed in your resume or cover letter. Your weakness should be an asset in its own right. For example, being a perfectionist who always tries to go above and beyond can be a weakness if it interferes with turning your work in on time or early.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Before the interview, go into a private space with a mirror, look yourself in the eye, and give yourself a pep talk. Pump yourself up with physical exercise to manifest confidence. Raise your arms, stretch your back and make yourself as big as possible. Research the body language of a confident and relaxed person in a seated position. Practice your answers in front of the mirror and record your voice. Keep an ear out for any stutters, awkward pauses, or speech crutches, such as 'like,' 'you know,' 'uh,' 'um,' etc. Smile and pretend you are talking to a person.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I'd say my strengths are my systems approaches for consistently getting the error-free job done ahead of deadlines. Also, I'm productive, always finding more work to do when I'm ahead of the game. And I often step outside my comfort zone to do whatever it takes to help the team. My contagious positive attitude has also had an impact at work. I often set the pace, and I've been told I am a natural-born leader.
My greatest weakness is not being great at saying no. In the past, I've bitten off more than I can chew and struggled with how to communicate 'no.' Since then, I learned that not communicating my limits despite how well I manage my time leads to taking on more than I can handle and underperforming. I've gotten a handle on this, but saying no can be hard for me, as I am not easily offended and rarely take things personally. This trait is a strength and weakness. I'm learning how to strike a harmonious balance between the two."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Career Goals
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
What You Need to Know
The assessment vendor is trying to gauge your aspirations for advancing your career instead of simply seeking job security and higher wages while meeting the status quo. Remember, the assessment vendor (HireVue) uses proprietary machine learning algorithms, which analyze data points found in your video interview to predict your future job performance. They'll evaluate those data points to identify if you are one of the potential top performers who'll help meet the company's goals and complement the culture.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
The career-minded professionals they're looking for are determined to advance and grow professionally. The most common method to determine continual success is through using the simple tool of developing a five-year career plan. If you haven't already, create a five-year career plan, breaking all of your macro goals into smaller, more attainable micro goals. Exemplify your time management skills by setting realistic time frames for each goal over the next five years. Strategize and stagger each goal to showcase your project management skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"In five years, I see myself as a trusted source for my teams and company. I see myself with a clear mutual vision with my professional partners moving towards unified goals. I see myself working towards increased responsibility, leading teams, and striving for goals that I haven't yet realized with the goals I've set for myself over the next five years accomplished and behind me as proud markers or milestones. I see myself mentoring others, offering advice to help speed their journey, offering them the secrets of my success freely."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"The Unilever graduate finance program will improve my leadership, communication, interpersonal, and business skills. My worth and skills over the years will improve. Exploring the brands, I will hope to have been promoted to participate in key and strategic decisions with regard to products in my region."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds like you plan to grow and develop the necessary skills and experience to advance in the company. Good job.
Career Goals
9. Why did you apply to this position rather than continue in your current role?
What You Need to Know
Consider what Unilever can do for you that your current or previous employer cannot. This question would normally be easier to navigate with a more conversational tone. Therefore, you should prepare for these kinds of questions well in advance of the interview to ensure you effectively communicate your response as desired. The interviewer will want to know committed you are to your current employer and gauge how serious you are about joining another team if you are currently testing the field while considering leaving your current employer. Your motives for leaving your job could be just as revealing. This question aims to assess what your circumstance may reveal about you as a potential employee.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Good reasons for leaving your current job would be career stagnation, company rebranding, downsizing, or growing in a different direction that isn't conducive to your career goals and growth. However, an employee that sees a favorable job market as an opportunity to jump ship and seek higher pay elsewhere because worker demand is high won't set you apart from your competition. Leaving your present employer for reasons other than furthering your career could indicate that you don't get along with your superiors or the others on your team or are solely motivated by pay or benefits. If you quit your job before lining up another, this could speak to a lack of planning or strategizing. Focus on the positives with a mindset for career growth. Steer away from speaking about your current or previous employers negatively.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I felt like my career growth had slowed due to lack of opportunity. My current company had some issues with management that resulted in a lot of turnover. I did everything I could to support my management and my teams, and as time went on, I found myself in a position where I volunteered to train, mentor, and onboard many of our newer employees. At first, I enjoyed sharing our philosophy and approach, but these issues remained. Before long, I was repeatedly placed in this position of training, and my own goals were getting sidelined. Those management issues were eventually resolved, but now we are thoroughly overstaffed, and there is less opportunity for growth from within. I've informed my management teams that I intend to move on. I think giving two weeks' notice is the bare minimum. So I gave two months' notice, but if I don't find the right fit, two months might end up being six months. I'm a bridge builder, not a bridge burner."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Career Goals
10. Why do you want to work for Unilever?
What You Need to Know
The assessment vendor will be profiling your mannerisms, tone, choice of words, and nonverbal cues for how natural or truthful you appear on camera. The screening process will likely identify if you're playing the numbers game and haven't performed adequate research on the company or found reasons to be genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with Unilever.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
If you make it through the screening, it's the recruiters' goal to evaluate, side by side, which candidates most align with Unilever, their team, their environment, and their mission and values. Make sure you perform your homework on yourself and Unilever to align your goals with theirs. Find genuine reasons why you want to work with them that go beyond preferred pay, hours, or location. Aim for like-minded values and mutual goals and growth. Be enthusiastic and ensure your tone and body language communicate honesty.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"There are a lot of companies out there with tall claims of the values they embody or embrace, but actions speak louder than words. Unilever's approach to 'business integrity,' taking actionable steps towards practicing integrity, respect, responsibility, and pioneering in their products and practices, speaks volumes. Unilever follows these principles with vigilance. This is the type of company I want to work for."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"Unilever is an international organization with a long history of success and I want to be associated with this company. The goals and values placed on integrity and respect among others are values I associate with. The workplace with allow growth with inclusive, diverse, and multi-talented bright minds to provide brands to better people's lives."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Jaymie Payne Reviewed the Above Answer
Great job incorporating the mission and values of an organization.
Career Goals
11. What skills or experiences do you hope to gain in this position?
What You Need to Know
This question further explores your career goals, intentions, and how sincere your career goals and ambitions are. Discuss the goals you set for yourself and explain how you plan to develop as a professional.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Evaluate your career accomplishments to date and how your previous employers helped you get there. Next, explain how Unilever is uniquely positioned to help you develop those skills or character-building experiences that will take you to the next level as a professional. Discuss your road to self-improvement and how Unilever can further you along that path. You may also want to mention how furthering you along would help Unilever.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I hope you don't think this is too forward, but communication is very important to me, and I have my last three five-year career plans with me. I have accompanied them with charts and timelines. I also have my next five-year career plan, and just for transparency, I'd like to share them with you. I find visuals reduce interpretation."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Career Goals
12. What area of Unilever interests you the most, and where do you see yourself in the company in the future?
What You Need to Know
This question further explores your motivations for pursuing a career with Unilever over other companies in your field. Unilever will probably reserve its resources for candidates who are interested in furthering their development as well as the development of the business they'll partner with, looking for mutual professional growth. The assessment vendor will again evaluate your non-verbal cues, confidence, and performance for your sincerity and how confidently you deliver your response.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Measure your career goals against what they have to offer. Explore how the career opportunities and growth potential within Unilever can further those career goals you've mapped out for yourself. Assure them you're aspiring to grow your career over the long term with a company like Unilever, which feels like a symbiotic match. Define why this is a good match and how working for them would be mutually beneficial.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am interested in the growth opportunities Unilever has to offer locally and globally. I am highly interested in learning more about the company and the opportunities this position presents. I have a lot of developed leadership skills, but I would need a little more inside knowledge to answer that question. Can you tell me the natural progression an overachieving career-minded professional might be presented with in this role?"
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Communication
13. Tell us about a time you resolved a conflict.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer asks this question to evaluate your communication, mediation, and diplomacy skills. The question also aims to reveal what you consider a conflict. Your nonverbal cues can show how comfortable you are while reflecting on this incident and whether you contributed to the conflict before resolving it.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
You'll want to come across as emotionally mature and not regressing into the emotion of that conflict when reflecting upon it. Present yourself as a team player, openly and equally accepting everyone on your team. Avoid assigning blame. Focus on the positives and how the overall outcome benefitted the team. Practice in front of a mirror and record your voice. Make eye contact and smile, posturing yourself in a relaxed and comfortable position.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"The other day, I walked by a couple of coworkers having a dispute over the talking notes from a team meeting. The problem was that the first person for the meeting showed up early and got a forward briefing while chatting with our team leader. This preliminary chat didn't involve every talking point, however. The other employee came late and missed the first half of the meeting. Yet the person who was early skipped out mid-meeting to use the restroom. When they returned, they assumed they hadn't missed anything, yet they did. So these two debated the accuracy of the details, but they were both wrong.
I always take meeting notes and save them on my computer for situations like this. I returned to my desk, printed them, and handed them each a copy with only a smile and without saying a word. They both fell silent, read them over, looked at each other, nodded, and returned to their desk. I love conflict resolution."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Communication
14. Tell me about a time you faced a challenging situation and how you resolved it through communication alone.
What You Need to Know
Everyone has their own style of communication. Unilever understands that clear communication is integral to ensuring its operations run smoothly. Someone who has developed their non-defensive communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and active listening will be more valued here. Communication is more than getting everyone on the same page. It's about how a message is conveyed.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Remember, the AI of the assessment vendor will be screening you for how well you communicate. Pay close attention to your choice of words and what they might communicate. Make sure to enunciate and try not to stutter or have long pauses. Record your voice while answering some of these questions. Take note of your use of any speech crutch words such as "like," "um," "you know," "so on and so forth," "and," "well," "but," "so," "ah," "er," and "Etcetera." Practice answering these questions without relying on those words. That will present you as a clearer communicator and more of a professional.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"My manager asked me to be a witness for a disciplinary write-up. The employee in question had a heated blow-up in the workplace that escalated quickly. However, this employee had recently been exhibiting defensive posturing. Upon the write-up, they continued to frame themselves as a victim and argued with my manager over the circumstances of this incident. I could tell my manager was starting to get a little flushed. I chimed in by addressing this employee's conduct and asking them about the circumstances behind the first recent bout of defensive outbursts they exhibited. I then continued tracing the steps from that first incident to the next, up to the most recent and asked them if the most recent employee they claimed victimized them was the same as the first, the second, or the third. I then observed that none of these other individuals was a common denominator. I then asked them what was going on in their life outside of work that was making them feel this way. Pretty quickly, we got to the bottom of their situational attitude. I'd rather not go into the details of their situation because it is of a serious and personal nature, but they quickly understood where I was going with it all. They hung their head, sheepishly took the write-up, signed it, and apologized. We offered them some of our employee services for counseling and help, and they got the help they needed."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Customer Service
15. What does Customer Service mean to you?
What You Need to Know
Having a background in customer service doesn't necessarily mean you always deliver an exemplary customer-centric experience. This question is designed to evaluate your approach to customer service and test how comfortable you are in a customer-facing role. Any non-verbal cues could potentially reveal this. Some common nonverbal cues are posture (slouching, folding your arms, protecting your neck), your professional appearance (how tidy you or your surroundings are, your head movements and hand movements, your vocal cues (placing stress or emphasis on certain words, stutters or long pauses), your facial expressions and eye movements.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Attitude is everything here. Go beyond how you aim to deliver a great customer experience. Focus on culture, branding, and creating human connections through your interactions. Exhibit positivity and enthusiasm, align the company's core values with your own, and integrate their keywords into your answer. When a company's teams look forward to coming to work and serving as true representatives of the culture of their brand, that translates into a positive customer experience.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Great customer service reflects great team collaboration and a team embracing the values of the brand they represent. A happy workforce equates to a happy and welcoming environment. The energy should be contagious and enthusiastic. When a customer enters that welcoming environment, they feel like they've been invited to the party. A customer should feel welcomed, validated, understood, and heard. Their brand loyalty should feel as valued as the value they place on the brand."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
EQ
16. How do you bounce back from an emotional challenge?
What You Need to Know
This question is designed to gain insight into your personality. Emotional intelligence is defined by one's ability to be fully self-aware while controlling one's emotions rather than letting emotions influence their conduct. That includes not taking things personally or allowing your judgment to be clouded by a misinterpretation of the facts.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about your emotional intelligence. Discuss your ability to adapt your communication style to others. Discuss your positive characteristics and how you ensure everyone is heard and respected in the workplace. If you have an example of a time your calm presence stood out from others, relay this brief story.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Emotional challenges can be fatiguing, depending on the circumstances, but such challenges are rare in my professional life. I think it all boils down to your perspective and emotional maturity. Something like bearing through the loss of a loved one or emotionally supporting a loved one through a tough time deserves special consideration. But with something like suffering a professional setback, like competing for a promotion, you need to learn from and move on.
For example, I talked with a coworker recently who took it hard when someone else was promoted into the position they were competing for. Their performance after that setback suffered a little. But I explained to them that it was an opportunity to study where they still needed to develop and grow. The fact that they took it so hard informed me that they weren't ready. But it wasn't my decision to make."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
17. What would you consider your finest achievement at your current job in the last year?
What You Need to Know
Sharing the achievements you are most proud of will indicate how you measure success. They are looking to separate the overachievers from the underachievers. They are also trying to assess your work ethic, career goals, and other insights into your personality, which will help them determine your fit for this role. The assessment vendor will evaluate how confidently and effortlessly you answer this question.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Be proud, not arrogant, yet try to remain humble. The road to self-improvement is never-ending. Focus your answer on your accomplishments rather than accomplishments resulting from a collaborative effort. Your answer should indicate why you're proud of this milestone. Examine why you regard it as a success in your personal development. Once you offer your example, share where you hope this achievement will lead you on your path.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"It sounds silly, but I pride myself on every milestone I achieve towards furthering my career. Today, my greatest achievement is my decision to move on from my previous employer. I am proud of my accomplishments with my previous employer and my contributions to my teams. I admire them all. I've built many strong working relationships with every one of them that will endure far beyond my tenure there. In other words, I am leaving on the best of terms. I take great pride in having helped them further their goals, as well as my own, but we helped each other get there. I've set them up for further success, effectively passing the baton. I take pride in knowing that my position is far more streamlined, with a stronger foundation than when I initially inherited it. I am looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for myself and them."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
18. Share with us one of the biggest challenges you faced in your current role and how you overcame it.
What You Need to Know
This question examines what you consider a challenge. The interviewer is trying to contrast your skills with your current employer's standards and how those compare to their expectations. This question not only aims to evaluate your skills but your understanding of your current employer's expectations and standards. How you answer will help them determine if you consider success as crossing daily items off your list or if you have your eye on the big picture.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Telling them what you think they want to hear will come across as disingenuous and, more often than not, can be spotted from a mile away. Speak from the heart. If possible, present yourself as an innovator with a unique lens toward outside-of-the-box thinking. This will help them further determine what you have to offer and how you'd fit into the culture of their brand. Provide them insights into what motivates your work.
Effectively communicate why your example constituted a challenge for you and the entire workplace. Present the context across all fronts; short-term goals, long-term goals, the big picture, and any other denominators that factored into the scenario, such as competing deadlines, staffing issues, and how the odds were stacked against you. Doing so will paint a broader picture and exemplify the impact of this challenge.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I am a fanatic about enhancing communication at work to ensure everything runs seamlessly. However, one of our supervisors who transferred from another department was not very communicative. Most of the time, this person would either ignore you or brush you off, no matter who you were. So I knew it wasn't personal. But it was hampering our effectiveness as a team due to a lot of messy communication and mixed signals.
So, I went out on a limb and asked this supervisor if I could have a chat with them outside of work about their thoughts on how to enhance communication in the department. They agreed and wanted to go to a local bar for a professional drink. I agreed. As soon as we were out, I was shocked at how much alcohol they consumed, and pretty soon, they started dumping all the personal struggles they were going through, and I was sympathetic. This suddenly gave me insights into how I could adjust my communication to their style while being sympathetic to their needs.
After, they were more transparent and forthcoming with their communication, yet with only me. But, I had a better idea of their motivators and how to engage with them to earn their trust and make them feel heard and understood, and I would often translate for the rest of the team. They had issues where they didn't feel very heard or understood, so they quit communicating anything more than the bare essentials. The others in our department observed the adjustment to my approach and followed suit. After a short while, this supervisor started lowering their guard and became far more transparent and cooperative because they felt more heard, understood, and validated. Suddenly their approach transformed as if they were only now accepted into the team. I think it boils down to communication preference. For some people, trust is hard-earned. For some people, communication may feel limited if they don't feel understood. But in this case, that was a self-fulfilling prophecy."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
19. How does your current experience relate to the position?
What You Need to Know
This question aims to evaluate how qualified you are for this position. The company wants to ascertain whether this is a reasonable step in the right direction for your career journey and that you are confident in being well equipped to take on this role. In addition, they are curious about how much you have to offer and whether you can deliver above and beyond, going the extra mile with ease.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Speak not only of the more easily relatable skills which meet their preferred qualifications as listen on their job posting, but also detail the nuances which aren't listed. If their posting says, 'must be a team player,' then elaborate on what you uniquely contribute to your team that sets you apart. This question is a solid opportunity to confidently deliver your pitch. If you truly believe in yourself, don't hold back on conveying that.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I am proud of how far I've come in my development as a professional. Aside from the qualifying hard skills listed on my resume, which align with the expectations of this position according to the job posting, I am emotionally mature, an excellent communicator who highly values the input of every member of my team, and I strive to ensure everyone is on the same page at all times. I am a leader, a collaborator, and a stickler when it comes to reworking. I manage my time well, balance my personal and work life, and pride myself on my attitude. I bring positive energy with me every day and am a problem solver. If you want to go the extra mile, I'm your guy."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
20. How would you differentiate Unilever from other competitors?
What You Need to Know
This question will assess your comfort level talking about this topic. The assessment vendor will study the flow and ease of your speech, whether you pause, stutter, stumble, or struggle to elaborate. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with all things Unilever.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Read up not only on all the information they provide on their webpages but also any media, writeups, blogs, or even a google search to find out who their competitors are and how they compare in sales, projections, and customer satisfaction. Make sure that, without looking up or referring to any notes (remember to maintain eye contact with the camera lens) that you can confidently and comfortably speak on this topic in the way in which you would be you to represent their brand.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are a lot of brands out there that define who they are by stating they are environmentally conscientious, with big claims on how they are increasing their impact by lowering their carbon footprint. Those claims sound great, but when you look at the big picture, they don't amount too much. When we look at the environmental impact of the individual, there is only so much one can do when the products they acquire in our consumer culture are limited and have the greatest impact on our environment. Unilever stands out from its competitors by looking at the big picture of its impact and helping the individual make a bigger impact by providing a more sustainable line of products. That is the definition of integrity. It's not PR; it's the truth."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
21. What makes you a good fit for Unilever?
What You Need to Know
This question offers you an opportunity to sell the assessment vendor on your confidence in being uniquely qualified or uniquely positioned to fit the mold and meet Unilever's qualifications. Study the nonverbal cues of someone confident in tone and posture. A confident person will maintain positive eye contact, take up more space, and speak in a clear and relaxed tone. Remember, an important aspect of delivering a solid video interview with an assessment vendor, such as HireVue, is to look at the camera (establishing eye contact) and not yourself on the screen. As tempting as it may be to study yourself to ensure you are performing well, not looking into the camera could be interpreted by the AI as looking down, which could indicate a lack of confidence. At the same time, try not to overthink it. All you can do is your best.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Speak sincerely about what you have to offer. Additionally, go into more detail than what is included on your resume. Perform generous research on Unilever, even if you are already well versed in the company. Leave no stone unturned when determining what you can offer the company. If you can further elaborate on the skills you've outlined in your resume, that's great. But also explore your less easily quantified soft skills. Speak with confidence and pride about how you fit their mold.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I feel the employees of a company should identify with and embrace the vision and philosophy of the company they represent. It should come from a place of genuine sincerity and like-minded values. I spent a lot of time looking for the right fit, and Unilever feels like a good fit for me. I'm looking for an inclusive and equitably balanced working environment that embraces diversity among its experienced professionals. I am also looking for a position with a company that embraces similar values as mine, and I value how Unilever is trying to make sustainability commonplace! In my professional life, I've always tried to develop systems to circumvent shortcuts. The shortcut shouldn't be necessary. I try to make the easiest way, the path of least resistance, the right way to do things. I feel like Unilever is doing that with its products, making sustainability easier for everyone. I want a job where I hold genuine pride in the company I work for. That is why I am here today."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
22. What do you know about Unilever?
What You Need to Know
This question evaluates your familiarity with the company, comfort level in talking about it, and general attitude and perceptions of the company and what they do. Your answer will help the recruiters who evaluate your interview performance contrast your responses with the other applicants and choose out of the finalists who seem like they would best represent their company's identity, brands, and culture.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
When sharing the breadth of your knowledge, provide more coverage about the aspects of the company you are genuinely enthusiastic about. When discussing those aspects of what Unilever does that you most identify with, your attitude and enthusiasm will reveal themselves. A more sincere, positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm will go a long way.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Unilever has over 400 brands, many of which are household names in over 190 countries. One of the things about the company that truly impresses is the action behind the claim of making sustainable living commonplace. Integrity is important to me, and it is my goal to work for a company that practices what they preach in this regard. Like Unilever's CEO, Alan Jope, said, Creating a stable of the world's most purposeful brands, proving that sustainable business drives better performance, and being a beacon for diversity and inclusion - these are the things we want Unilever to be famous for."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
23. How do you manage your time?
What You Need to Know
Gaining insights into how you manage your time will reveal how effective you'll be at your job. Not preparing for your morning equates to not preparing for your workday, putting yourself at risk of showing up late to work. Not managing your workflow or projects risks missing deadlines or potentially putting in unnecessary overtime, or taking your work home with you. That could result in extra stress, low job satisfaction, feel overwhelmed at work at home, which could be a catalyst for not sleeping well, fatigue, and burning out. As we know, the assessment vendor and hiring manager are looking for the best of the best and will use every performance indicator at their disposal.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Share a few methods you employ to manage your time in your professional and personal life since one affects the other. Describe how you manage your day, projects, career goals, and milestones. Validating the nature of the question can go a long way. Exhibit that you keep your eye on the big picture. For a professional 'A-Player,' this is second nature. Let them know it's second nature for you.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I manage my time by keeping my eye on the big picture. It begins when I leave work, making sure my gas tank is full, stuff like that. At home, I'll pour myself a glass of wine. I have one every night. I'll put on some fun music and choose my wardrobe for the next day. I'll set out my vitamins and line up everything for my morning. I program my coffee maker, make my lunch, then make sure my alarm clock is set. Then I'll concentrate on dinner. I do a big batch of cooking on the weekend, so my meals are planned for the week. The next morning, I wake up to soothing and energizing music, grab some dark chocolate from my bedstand, and spring awake. I listen to the traffic alerts and cruise through my morning listening to music that will set my mood. I'll arrive early to work every day, say my hellos, check my email, and clock into work. I have a strong sense of time and how to fit everything into my day and am forward thinking in this regard without fail."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experience
24. Describe an experience where you received an urgent task. How did you approach it?
What You Need to Know
They are trying to determine whether you can be trusted with responsibilities with high stakes or whether doing so would be a considerable risk. Your answer will offer insights into the degree to which your current or previous employer entrusted you with a high-priority or crucial task. The bigger the task and the greater the responsibility, the better. Asking an employee to create a new filing system doesn't compare to taking on, or taking over, a project with an impending deadline with a high impact. Your resourcefulness, ability to prioritize your projects, and ability to recruit help when necessary will showcase your experience level.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
The aim here is to showcase your skill level and your leadership potential. Think about examples where you were responsible for managing chaos in the workplace. Consider occasions where you were volunteered or just stepped into action to assist the team. We all face high-pressure situations at work. Think of such an instance where you shined and helped save the day.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"There was an occasion recently where I had a project near completion but logistically had a little further to go regarding putting in the work. Then, suddenly a coworker who was working on a high-priority project had a medical emergency and was out of work for a while. They were indisposed, so there was no passing of the torch. I volunteered to take over this project, which was due in only a couple of days, and there was a lot of debate about whether it could be done. So, I passed the torch for the project I was working on, knowing it could be completed with ease in the way I'd managed the project to this point, and took over on the other project. It took me half a day to get caught up on this other project, and I started to fill in all the missing pieces. It required about eight hours of overtime collectively to get it done. I'm not one to underperform, and I have a standard to uphold, so I had to make sure it was done right. But I got it done. and the project I'd previously spearheaded was also completed to my satisfaction. It was a win-win."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Leadership
25. Provide an example where you rose up to demonstrate your leadership skills.
What You Need to Know
This question assesses your leadership experience, skill level, potential, and confidence or reluctance to lead. It is meant to separate those in the candidate pool who exhibit leadership potential from those who don't. Those who take charge of their development and are determined to further their career will make a habit of stepping outside of their comfort zone and will step up to lead when the need arises. This is in contrast to those who prefer the status quo and prefer being given clear direction and supporting the team from within.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Before choosing your example, consider how you'd like to present your leadership skills or talents. Contemplate what leadership looks like to you and what "rising to the occasion" looks like. Doing so will present you as striving to be the best version of yourself that you can be while demonstrating sincere potential.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'd just turned in my work early when a coworker started asking me for help with the job they were working on. After the third question, it was clear they lacked the confidence necessary to tackle the task at hand. They were trying to go above and beyond by taking on a project outside their comfort zone. So after the third request for help, I went over to their desk, looked at what they were working on, and asked them more questions to get a picture of what they needed coaching on. From there, I mentored them on how to complete this job, from beginning to end, guiding them along the way. Once they tackled the project, the advice I gave them helped them tenfold. This took them in some surprising directions, and the next thing I knew, they were mentoring me on something new. It comes full circle. That's teamwork, right?"
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Leadership
26. What does leadership mean to you?
What You Need to Know
This question evaluates how compatible your leadership style would be with the work culture and environment of Unilever and how you overcome challenges while motivating your team. It will also assist them in determining how aligned your philosophy and approach align with Unilever's expectations. Exhibiting the qualities of a leader will affirm your value.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Take time to consider which qualities of the five main leadership styles best describe you and how you integrate those into your approach to your work when directing others or yourself. Stay positive, and share your philosophy in a way you feel will complement what you've learned about the company. Incorporate the company's keywords and core values in your answer when possible. Focus on the details when describing your style and approach to your work.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'd say I am an influencer and a transformational leader. Give a man a fish, and he eats for a day. Teach a person leadership skills, and they'll lead for life. I've been told I am a great coach and motivator, and I think that's partly due to my approach, where I treat everyone equally, work in partnership with my peers, conduct myself with honesty and integrity, and earn their trust by showing I care."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Teamwork
27. How would you build trust with your coworkers?
What You Need to Know
Unilever's ideal candidate will exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills and spend the first 90 days building relationships, asking questions, and learning how to do the job and why they do things the way they do. Without having that valuable information, it will be impossible to make an impact. So, their ideal candidate will understand the building blocks required to make a meaningful impact and contribute.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Map out your approach to entering a new work environment, introducing yourself with the aim of relationship building while introducing your work style to your new teams. Consider this a 90-day plan, where you can study and learn their systems and processes while taking notes and asking questions. This will outline any opportunities for making an impact without leading with presumption. However, your initial focus needs to meet the company's expectations as outlined in the job posting or job description. For instance, if the job description mentions a "must-have" of strong communication skills, be sure to comment on how you plan to utilize your exceptional communication skills to see success in a short amount of time.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I'd start by getting to know the members of my team, the communication style and work style of each individual, and adapt from there. I'd work hard side-by-side with them and keep my head down. I'd exhibit positivity and ask for their insights and tips and tricks to get the work done as efficiently as possible. I'd actively listen and participate and keep asking questions to absorb as much as I can. Once I feel I've built some strong working relationships, I'd keep trying to identify kaizen opportunities and would innovate from there. I'm here to contribute and make the team stronger as a whole. That's my goal."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Teamwork
28. Tell me about a time you led a team.
What You Need to Know
This question evaluates your ability to unify your sense of teamwork with your leadership approach. The interviewer wants to know what your approach to leading a group reveals about your communication and project management skills and how your approach aligns with their philosophy towards collaboration and innovation. Your response will indicate your confidence in your abilities and the emotional associations with those experiences. Someone who folds their arms and furrows their brow when relating how they direct a team will suggest someone who may not have had a positive experience. Whereas, someone who is smiling with open body language will convey confidence and effective leadership. The breadth of your vision, the big picture versus a more limited short-term view, is what the interviewer is trying to gauge.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Describe how you endeavor to advance the vision and success of your organization. Prioritizing the success of the team displays big-picture thinking. Highlight your strengths, your flexibility, and that you are easy to work with. Describe your system approach and how you adapt your work style based on the situation. By committing to the team's success, you're investing in the progress of your associates and encouraging positive growth. This serves as an investment in one's development.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I recently spearheaded a team where we completed our project in half the time allotted. Then, we went the extra mile by fine-tuning every aspect of what we set out to do. I asked management what the next stage of this project would have been after we passed it on to them, and my team took on management responsibilities as well. The management pulled me aside and asked me how I did it, and I shared the systems and processes that I typically use for my work and how I adapted them to this team project. The next thing I knew, I was modifying many systems and processes for our entire department and won employee of the year."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Teamwork
29. What values do you think you can bring to the team?
What You Need to Know
Functioning well as part of a larger team is essential. Frequently, those striving to further their careers are singularly focused on their ambition and goals. There may be times this is unavoidable, which is why the purpose of this question is to assess how well you work and collaborate with others. This question is designed to gauge how aligned your approach and philosophy are with their ideals and goals and how well you work with others, delving further into your concept of teamwork. When you perform at your best, you'll potentially create contagious energy where suddenly you are setting the pace. But this is only accomplished when embracing the right attitude. You are the only person who gets to decide your attitude. In a team environment, the right attitude can go a long way.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about how you go about developing and placing value on relationships with coworkers when you start a new job. Think about what is important to you about these relationships and what your personality and approach offer those working around you. Treating the members of your teams with dignity and respect while recognizing and rewarding their efforts is paramount, whether you're in a leadership role or not. Consider these points when composing your answer.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"Clear communication, a great attitude, a can-do mentality, and contagious positivity. I always exceed my expectations, and I feel disappointed when time or circumstances only allow for the bare minimum. I do everything I can to lead by example, practice what I preach, and enhance strong morale and camaraderie. So those values are a strong work ethic, integrity, trust, and reliability."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Teamwork
30. How would you address an employee who is underperforming?
What You Need to Know
Not only can an employee's poor performance negatively impact the rest of the team, but how you handle that challenge can make matters worse. Therefore, the assessment vendor is trying to determine how you approach developing and mentoring your team members. They are curious if your approach abides by discretion, integrity, and professionalism while further fostering teamwork and positive collaboration.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Craft your example around Unilever's core values, around treating others with respect, while being guided by empathy, integrity, and transparency. Offer examples where you encouraged their growth while promoting their strengths. Describe how you identify growth opportunities and see them through while collaborating with them in furthering their development.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I'd approach them in private and tell them what I have observed in their performance. I would offer to help them in any way I could. If I have communicated effectively with empathy and support, and if they were open to it, I would try to mentor them, shadow them, identify their growth opportunities and help in any way I could. I'd identify their strengths and capitalize on those points to enhance where they are struggling or failing to meet expectations and go from there. A team should always identify their teammates' strengths and never exploit their weaknesses. We support each other to reach our mutual goals. So, in short, if I saw a fellow team member underperforming, I would do everything I could to help support them and their professional development."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 16th, 2022