30 VIA Rail Canada Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our VIA Rail Canada interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At VIA Rail Canada we strive to be the best transit agency in the world. How will you contribute to this goal?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to know that you understand and respect their goals as a company while bringing the enthusiasm required to succeed in your role. When everyone works towards one common goal, extraordinary things can happen! Discuss what you know they do best, and how you will contribute.
1st Answer Example
" While preparing for this interview, I read that your mission statement is to (insert company statement). I will help you to achieve this by (list three actions that you would take). It's important to me that my company be successful and gain positive customer reviews since my livelihood also depends on these factors. I take pride in my work and appreciate that VIA Rail Canada does the same."
2nd Answer Example
"I plan to contribute to your goal of being the best transit agency in the world by being an engaged employee, keeping myself trained on the latest news and approaches in the industry, and continually seeking out ways to make the passenger experience more enjoyable. Many people spend hours a day commuting on VIA Rail Canada trains, so it's important that I acknowledge this, and make their experience exceptional every time."
2. Do you have experience in dispatch or radio communications of any kind?
How to Answer
Depending on the role to which you are applying, it may be a significant asset to have dispatch or radio communication experience. Public transit, to operate smoothly, has many moving parts behind the scenes. These moving parts include dispatch so that everyone knows their place, where they should be, and when!
If you do have dispatch experience, outline the type of equipment you have used and the volume that you can handle. If you do not have dispatch experience, discuss any experience with radio communication equipment. If you are new to your career, this question may not apply, but you should always show an eagerness and willingness to learn.
1st Answer Example
"I worked as a dispatcher for a commercial trucking company earlier in my career, for about four years. The equipment that I used included two-way radio and a GPS based computer program. I was amazed by how much work goes into the logistics of transportation and time-optimization for deliveries and driver schedules. Although dispatch is no longer a part of my career, I certainly have a strong appreciation for the profession and understand its importance."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand how to use a two-way radio, and I have a solid understanding of GPS based computer systems. Dispatch is an important component of public transit, and I am eager to learn more."
3. What do you know about public transit rules, regulations, and safety compliance?
How to Answer
Rules and regulation surrounding safety and public transit use will change depending on the region in which you are interviewing. The hiring authority would like to know that you have at least a basic understanding of the industry before being hired. If you are new to the public transit industry, it is entirely acceptable for your knowledge to be limited. In this case, it is more important that you show a willingness to learn more about the industry.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in public transit for fifteen years and am very familiar with the rules and regulations for operators and other employees in this industry. I know that VIA Rail Canada will have its own set of regulations laid out which I am more than happy to begin learning. Safety and compliance are topics of utmost importance to me."
2nd Answer Example
"I fully understand why VIA Rail Canada would need to have strict rules surrounding public transit use, and compliance. If you could direct me on where to learn more about the regulations in our area, I would like to gain a head start on my learning."
4. VIA Rail Canada oversees transit operations by use of computer-generated displays, and voice communications. Do you have experience in these areas? If not, do you consider yourself technically savvy?
How to Answer
In most roles with VIA Rail Canada you will be asked to communicate with your teammates and complete your duties, using a variety of tech and equipment. In the public transit industry, routes are computerized, everything is timed, and many tasks are automated. Be prepared to discuss your ability to learn these systems quickly.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, we use a lot of technical equipment; primarily Motorola solutions including two-way radio, call handling software, dispatch consoles, video surveillance, and other network monitoring tools. I am confident in my ability to learn the tech used at VIA Rail Canada and will apply my existing knowledge as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I am technically savvy and, although I am new to my career with limited knowledge of the tech used in public transit, I am sure that I will be a fast learner. I pick up on new tech all the time. If you would like, I am happy to get ahead of the curve by watching online tutorials on the equipment most commonly used here at VIA Rail Canada."
5. What do you know about VIA Rail Canada and the people we serve every day?
How to Answer
It is imperative to the interviewer that you show excitement for the job. Part of this excitement is engagement in the interview process. Essentially; that means coming well-prepared and well-researched. Imagine going on a first date, and they know nothing about you? That's how offended an interviewer would be if you knew nothing about their company before attending an interview. Perform research on VIA Rail Canada through a search engine and their website. Check out any awards they may have received, any news surrounding growth and infrastructure development, and of course, check out employee and customer reviews. You should know around how many people they serve every day, how long they have been in business and other key talking notes.
1st Answer Example
"I know that VIA Rail Canada has been around since (enter year), and that you serve around (#) passengers per year. The reviews that I have read from customers consistently say that they appreciate the ease of use and affordable transit passes. Other compliments online included mentions of your clean environment and helpful staff. "
2nd Answer Example
"I have been a passenger of VIA Rail Canada for four years now, taking the train everywhere I go. My first-hand experience tells me that you serve thousands a day that are getting to work, school, and their extracurricular activities. You serve passengers from all walks of life, and all ages. I especially appreciate that you (mention a recent award, innovation, or mention in the news)."
6. Have you ever been involved in writing, preparing, or training Standard Operating Procedures or an Emergency Response Plan?
How to Answer
Standard Operating Procedures, often referred to as SOPs, are laid out instructions that assist employees in completing complex parts of their job. Think of SOPs as a manual of sorts. An SOP aims to maintain quality, consistency in work, increase communication, boost compliance, and improve safety.
An Emergency Response Plan includes the steps that employees need to take when an emergency occurs. This document can consist of accidents or even lockdown procedures.
If you are more seasoned in your career, you may have had some involvement in either writing, preparing, or training new employees on Standard Operating Procedures and Emergency Response Plans. If so, briefly discuss your participation and how confident you feel with these types of responsibilities.
If you are newer to your career, you may have seen your company's SOPs or Emergency Response Plan but have not had involvement in their creation. Show that you have an understanding of their importance and express your willingness to learn how to prepare and train others.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I train many new employees on our company's emergency response procedures and some operating procedures as well; mainly on workflow. My training is in the ISO-9000 format. It's important that every SOP come with clear instructions, checklists, and charts so that they are simple for everyone to understand. I am comfortable with leading these projects but also appreciate a high level of involvement with all stakeholders to ensure that the SOP is all-encompassing."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been given SOPs to follow and have read through my current company's Emergency Response Plan. I am eager and willing to become involved in the creation of these important documents as I grow in my career. I have strong writing skills, I am organized, and have that keen eye for detail required to write robust documents such as these."
7. Have you been a regular passenger of VIA Rail Canada? If so, what has been your experience? What did we do well, and what can we improve?
How to Answer
The hiring authority would like to know what your experiences have been with VIA Rail Canada and if you have any suggestions for improvement; or, any compliments for them! If you do have ideas for improvement, keep in mind that this is not an opportunity to reinvent the wheel. You want to avoid sounding critical or coming up with a multitude of ways that you will 'save' the company. Give an honest and engaging overview of your experience with VIA Rail Canada. Remember to keep your tone positive!
1st Answer Example
"When I was younger and did not have a car, I relied on VIA Rail Canada for all of my transportation needs. I loved riding the train because I was able to get my school work done while on my commute, people watch, or relax. My experience was always positive, as the trains felt clean and safe. Security and emergency help was always nearby and the trains nearly always on time."
2nd Answer Example
"I have used public transit to get me to special events where parking is limited. I found VIA Rail Canada transportation to be clean and reliable. My only recommendation, from what I hear from friends and family who take public transit, is that it would be great to have passes go digital. This way they can pre-pay with a credit card and show proof of purchase through their mobile device, rather than keeping track of a paper ticket."
8. How would you handle a passenger complaint?
How to Answer
Public transit is, essentially, customer service. When you work with the public on this level, it's essential that you handle every situation appropriately, quickly, and with the utmost care. Bad reviews stay forever (thanks, Internet!) so it's crucial to VIA Rail Canada that you handle any passenger grievance carefully.
Most people recommend taking the following actions:
- Stay pleasant, positive and professional
- Carefully listen to their issue
- On behalf of the company, give a sincere apology
- Keep neutral and avoid becoming defensive
Discuss what you would do, step by step, to handle a passenger complaint.
1st Answer Example
"If faced with a passenger complaint, I would first make sure that I had a full understanding of the situation and what went wrong. I would apologize on behalf of VIA Rail Canada and ask the passenger what I could do to make the situation better. There is value is making people feel heard and important."
2nd Answer Example
"I worked in customer service while attending university and received a fair amount of training when it came to customer complaints. I would handle passenger complaints at VIA Rail Canada with the same care and attention. The steps include stop, make eye contact, listen, repeat back, and resolve. If the situation were more serious than a general complaint, I would escalate the concern to my direct supervisor."
9. This position is physically demanding. Are you able to meet the physical requirements such as bending, crawling, crouching, lifting, and standing for long periods?
How to Answer
Look for an outline of any physical requirements in the VIA Rail Canada job posting, and role description. If for any reason, you are unclear on the expectations in this role, it is best that you ask for clarification. For instance, if the job posting refers to 'heavy lifting,' it would be wise to ask how heavy, how often, and for how long.
If you have any physical ailments, it is in the best interest for you and the company that you disclose this. You do not need to go into too much detail; however, you do need to be honest if anything hinders your ability to perform the physical duties safely.
1st Answer Example
"I read in your job posting that this role requires bending, standing for long periods, and heavy lifting. Could you please tell me more about the lifting component? Although I am in great physical condition, I believe my limitation would be around 30 pounds of lifting multiple times per day."
2nd Answer Example
"I am in peak physical condition and come prepared to perform all of the duties mentioned in the job description."
10. Are you aware that, in this role, you risk exposure to physical, electrical, and chemical hazards as well as harsh weather conditions?
How to Answer
Any risks in this role will be outlined in the VIA Rail Canada job posting and role description. With that said, the interviewer still wants to double check that you are aware of the potential risks in this role. Assure the hiring authority that you are prepared to put safety first in your new position. If you have worked jobs with similar threats in the past, be sure to mention this and how you expertly handled the potential risks.
1st Answer Example
"I have read your job posting and description thoroughly and am very aware of the potential risks. In my current position, I work outside in all weather conditions, often at risk for extreme situations. I take my safety training seriously and am confident in my ability to react quickly and appropriately to any dangerous situation."
2nd Answer Example
"I am keen when it comes to my training and putting safety first. Rest assured, I am aware of the risks in this role, and will do everything it takes to ensure my safety, the safety of VIA Rail Canada passengers, and the well-being of my coworkers."
11. Are you prepared to present your driver's abstract from all jurisdictions that you have been a licensed driver in the last two years?
How to Answer
If you are interviewing for an operator role of any kind, VIA Rail Canada will likely require you to present your drivers' abstract. Each company you talk with will have specific requirements as far as how far back they look into your driving history, and in what region; if you have relocated recently. The best thing to do is to keep your response short and concise! Of course, you are willing to present whatever documentation they require for your employment records.
1st Answer Example
"I have brought with me today, an original copy of my drivers' abstract for the last three years. I have lived in this region since 2005 so everything you need will be available here, in this state. Is there anything more I can provide for my candidate file?"
2nd Answer Example
"I recently moved here from (name region), so I took on the task of ordering the past two years of driving history from that area, as well as the past six months here, in (name region). If there is anything further that you need, I am happy to comply."
12. VIA Rail Canada requires a security clearance check, positive references, and a medical examination before offering employment. Are you willing to comply?
How to Answer
The answer should always be that 'yes!' you are willing to comply. If you want the role with VIA Rail Canada you need to be prepared to have your background checked in all possible ways. These steps are very typical in the public transit industry. Answer in a way that assures the interviewer that you are willing to take any background checks they require.
1st Answer Example
"I completely understand the need for a variety of background checks, and you have my expressed permission to look into my work history, do a criminal background check, and ensure that I am physically able to do this job without injuring myself or others."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate the hard work that goes into ensuring all new hires are qualified to be in a public service role. I am happy to comply with any background checks that you require."
13. Although we have an excellent training program at VIA Rail Canada, we are seeking to hire someone with an intermediate level of experience in our industry. With what types of transportation services are you most experienced?
How to Answer
Transportation types could include air, water, and land transport. Land transport could then include trains, buses, railways, and more. Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your experience, being sure to highlight the areas of transportation in which you bring experience.
If you are new to the industry or your career in general, speak more to the transferable skills you offer, and express your interest in jumping to this industry.
1st Answer Example
"Your training program is well known to be the best in the industry, and I look forward to learning a lot from your skilled teams. I have worked in transportation for ten years; primarily in commercial transport and trucking. I have experience with the transportation of dangerous goods as well. This experience has equipped me for a career in public transit as I am well-trained to put safety before anything else. I am also sensitive to and keenly aware of timing and deadlines."
2nd Answer Example
"My experience comes from my education in Transportation Planning and Infrastructure. I recently graduated from this program and excelled in coursework in transportation demand analysis, Geographic Information Systems, and policy analysis and implementation. This education is all-encompassing, and I feel well-equipped to work with all forms of public transportation services."
14. Public transit operates 24/7. Are you willing to meet the scheduling requirements for this position?
How to Answer
Your schedule at VIA Rail Canada will depend on the role to which you are applying. It is safe to say; however, that you might not receive prime hours as a new hire. Since a lot of public transportation runs 24/7, it is critical that you show a willingness to work a variety of hours and act as a team player. If you have restrictions in your schedule, this is a good time to mention them.
1st Answer Example
"In your job posting you mentioned that most employees begin with a night shift and that VIA Rail Canada bases holidays and vacation time on a scale of seniority. I am willing to work my way into a daytime schedule and more vacation opportunities. At this time, I am unavailable on Monday evenings, due to a family commitment; however, I am available any other times."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am willing to meet the scheduling requirements for this position. I am eager to get started in my career and will do what it takes to be a team player."
15. What do you believe to be the biggest challenge public transit faces today?
How to Answer
There are a few main themes in public transit when it comes to challenges and obstacles. These include safety and security, funding, changes in travel habits, technical innovation, and workforce development. The interviewer wants to see that you have an idea of these challenges and that you come from a place of understanding. Discuss one problem that you believe to be significant. This question is an opportunity for you to ask questions or showcase your industry knowledge. Your approach will differ based on your level of experience.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that one of the biggest challenges public transit faces today is keeping up with the technical innovation in the transportation industry, and then balancing the introduction of tech with the expectations of passengers and the public. Technological innovation is bringing around new options when it comes to travel, but it is also changing people's expectations. In my current company, we are looking at everything, including everything from mobile ticketing to real-time data collection and analysis capabilities."
2nd Answer Example
"From observation, I think that a significant challenge that public transit faces could be safety and security. Issues that never go away include emergency preparation, crime reducing, and supporting 24/7 passenger safety. Could you tell me more about what VIA Rail Canada is doing to tackle these important issues?"
16. As a public transit operator, you will meet hundreds of new people every day. In which ways do you embrace diversity?
How to Answer
Diversity and inclusion are important topics at VIA Rail Canada and the interviewer would like to know that you share a mindset of inclusion and equality. The interviewer wants to see that you understand the importance of acknowledging people different from you. This acceptance may come in the form of being kind to the people that you meet and treating everyone the same. Discuss how you embrace diversity in your personal and professional life.
1st Answer Example
"I too am a minority so, I appreciate it when someone else reaches out to learn about me and my culture. I fully recognized the needs and the difference in the needs of others. For me, embracing diversity encompasses culture but also gender identity, age, and more. I am sensitive to and very accepting."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate that VIA Rail Canada is so open when it comes to conversations around diversity and inclusion in the workplace. I celebrate those different from me and take every opportunity to learn about what makes them unique. I recognize that everyone has a story, whether that be related to gender identity, sexual orientation, or heritage, for instance."
17. Do you have your air brakes or Q endorsement?
How to Answer
This question is highly targeted and will have a response of either yes or no. The interviewer would like to see you elaborate a little bit on your reply, either way.
If you do have your air brakes or Q endorsement, discuss when you obtained this driving credential. Be prepared to present any certificate or proof in your interview as the hiring authority may want to take a copy for your candidate record.
If you do not have your air brakes or Q endorsement, be sure to express to the interviewer the steps you are willing to take to gain that credential.
1st Answer Example
"I do have my air brake endorsement, and have so for the past eight years, along with my CDL (commercial drivers' license). I brought proof of endorsement with me today, and you are welcome to take a copy for your records."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not yet earned my air brakes certification; however, I am currently in the process of completing the training. My coursework comes to an end this month."
18. In the event of an accident, what procedures would you follow?
How to Answer
If you have any safety or emergency training, this is an excellent opportunity to walk the interviewer through the scope of that training. If you do not have emergency training, that is okay too! Most important here is the fact that the interviewer needs to see your ability to think clearly and rationally in the event of an accident or emergency. Assure the hiring authority that you would follow VIA Rail Canada protocol and training while remaining calm and professional.
1st Answer Example
"In the event of an accident, I would call 911 first. Then, I would fully assess the situation by following my company training and standard procedures. As per my emergency response training from my current role, it's important that I remain calm in the event of an accident; showing confidence to the passengers, allowing them to better cope with the situation at hand."
2nd Answer Example
"In the event of an accident, I would follow VIA Rail Canada procedures, exactly. I am eager to absorb my training here and will be prepared to react professionally and calmly in situations that require a mature response."
19. How will your education help you to succeed in this position with VIA Rail Canada?
How to Answer
Your education might be on your resume; however, the interviewer wants you to take a minute and bring that educational experience to life for them.
Some areas where you could focus on include:
- Awards or accolades you received
- Specific classes where you excelled
- Scholarships and grants you earned
- Volunteer work while attending school
- Clubs or groups with which you were involved
- Your grades, or where you placed in your graduating class
Because this is an open-ended question, it can be easy to ramble on. Try to structure your response carefully to avoid a long-winded answer that confuses the interviewer. Be sure to tie in your educational experience with qualities and soft skills mentioned in the job posting.
1st Answer Example
"I had an excellent post-secondary experience and am happy to have earned my degree in Operational Management. My education will help me to succeed in this role with VIA Rail Canada as it provided me with a full understanding of how to manage many moving parts from the delivery of excellent customer service to emergency management, safety protocols, and maintenance needs. During my time in university, I played team sports, which also taught me a great deal about teamwork, training hard, and upholding a healthy level of competition both internally and externally."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my Diploma in Administration. The coursework that I took included accounting, supply chain management, and basic financial management. I graduated top of the class, all while working part-time. I learned skills such as organization, prioritization, and stress management. All of these skills will add to my success here at VIA Rail Canada."
20. On a scale of 1-10; how well do you know our city and its infrastructure?
How to Answer
Answering a scale of 1-10 is a simple way for the interviewer to assess your current knowledge level. If you are interviewing for a role with public transit, it is essential that you have a solid understanding of how the city operates in terms of roads and infrastructure. You could give your response while also putting a spotlight on how long you have lived in the area, for instance. And, if you are new to the area that is okay too! Be honest about your lack of knowledge in this area; however, focus on the positive by highlighting your dedication to learning.
1st Answer Example
"I grew up in this city and have seen it grow from a mere 400K people to 1.2M over the past decade. I would say that I am a 9 out of 10 when it comes to my understanding of the transit, roads, and infrastructure. Things are always changing, as we continue to develop our rural and urban areas."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently moved here and am very excited to get to know this vibrant city! I have been studying Google maps in preparation for a position within public transit, and will continue to do so until I can confidently say that my knowledge of this city is a 10/10!"
21. What do you know about the VIA Rail Canada training program?
How to Answer
You will find information on the VIA Rail Canada website, by researching online, or simply by asking! It's essential that, before taking any job, you understand how dedicated the company is when it comes to equipping you to do your job. Do your research, and if you have any questions for the interviewer, this is an excellent time to ask!
Some questions that you could ask about the training program include:
- How long is the training?
- Who will be training me?
- Will I be paid during the training period?
- What are the expectations of me once training is complete?
- Is training performed both in the field and in a classroom setting?
1st Answer Example
"I read on your website that your training consists of two weeks in-class training, one week job shadowing another operator, and another week of supervised fieldwork. I understand that I will be required to pass my driving test by at least 85% along with additional testing such as language skills and physical health. I took some time to read through the employee reviews on Glassdoor and noticed there was a common theme surrounding the fact that your training is some of the best in the industry. I found that very exciting to read."
2nd Answer Example
"I know that your training program is four weeks long and the working hours during the training program are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. From what I have read, the first six days of the training program are focused on bus driving. During that time, I will be required to pass a Class II road test. I read that there will be several homework assignments for me to take home and complete. Before being on my own, I will complete another two driver evaluations and a written exam. I appreciate that your training program is so thorough as I will, no doubt, feel very confident in my driving skills once the program is complete."
22. Tell me about a challenge in your current job that you have overcome.
How to Answer
Every job presents its unique challenges. The interviewer would like to know the most significant challenge, problem, or situation that you have had to overcome in your current role.
Your answer to this question will reveal to the interviewer the seniority that you have, and the level of engagement that you bring to work. Discuss a time when you faced a significant challenge, being sure to clearly outline the situation, your actions, and the result. Remember: interviewers love specific numbers and quantifiable results!
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, timely and effective communication had been the biggest issue. This breakdown of communication was causing safety issues and costing the company a lot of money. After taking two weeks to research, craft a strategy, and put together a presentation on available tools, I approached our management team with the top three programs that could save us a lot of time and error. These options included Wrike, Slack, and Monday, which are all productivity and team-based communication tools. Management took the suggestions and implemented one of the applications across three departments; allowing us to more easily communicate without losing emails or letting important tasks fall off."
2nd Answer Example
"As a recent university graduate, the biggest challenge that I faced was managing my courseload while also working part-time to pay my tuition. To stay organized, I used a lot of technology and practical applications such as iCal and Evernote. I also found a mentor who could help me to prioritize what I needed to do to launch my career in transportation. By reaching out and asking for help and advice, I was able to reach my goal of graduating top of my class while completing school debt free."
23. How would you go about asking for a change in the workplace if you did not like the current approach?
How to Answer
Many public transit jobs are government-run, managed by the city in which you work, or backed by a union. The interviewer would like to know that you can professionally navigate the landscape when it comes to asking for change at VIA Rail Canada or even making suggestions and recommendations. Discuss how you would approach asking for a change in the workplace if you were unhappy with the current situation. Show that you are confident enough to approach a subject but also professional enough to know how to go about it. If you have a specific example of a time when you did ask for change, tell the interviewer about the action that you took.
1st Answer Example
"As the lead dispatcher in my current company I felt that the hours we were asked to work were become less reasonable every week. When I first started the job, I would bank around five overtime hours per week. Now, on average, I am asked to work at least 15 overtime hours per week. Of course, I comply as often as I can, but it is not in anyone's best interest to have overexerted employees. I approached our union rep about my concerns, and we crafted a plan to have a productive conversation around the issue. My suggestion was to hire two new full-time employees to equal the 45+ hours of overtime banked every week. The request is still in review; however, I feel great about the way I handled my concern."
2nd Answer Example
"When I first joined my last employer, I noticed that the company did not have a workplace harassment and bullying policy. Coming out of university and being very sensitive to the diversity and inclusion conversation, I felt I would bring a fresh perspective to my employer. I requested a meeting with the management team, where I brought up my concerns, along with concrete examples that I had seen in our work environment. The leadership team thanked me for my concerns and for being so alert and sensitive to potentially bigger issues over time. As a result, they granted me the title of 'Diversity Liaison' where I am an appointed safe place for anyone feeling uncomfortable for any reason."
24. When working with the public, emergencies can happen. How will you react to unexpected stress and pressure?
How to Answer
VIA Rail Canada sees many passengers every day. With this type of traffic, emergencies are sure to happen from time to time. The interviewer needs to know that you can react appropriately and professionally under expected, high-pressure situations. Assure the interviewer that you can maintain your cool in emergencies, and while under stress. If you have a story to tell from a time when you helped during an emergency, be sure to bring this experience to life for the hiring authority.
1st Answer Example
"A few months ago, one of our passengers had a heart attack during the morning commute. Another passenger pushed the emergency button, so I pulled the vehicle over at the first safe opportunity, while also telling someone with a cell phone to call 911. I assessed the passenger in distress and kept them comfortable until paramedics arrived. Luckily, we covered this type of situation in my operator training. I believe that this training gave me the confidence to react swiftly and appropriately. You can see from this example that I can follow protocol, act quickly, and remain professional under stress and pressure."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that VIA Rail Canada has guidelines, protocols, and formal training for many types of emergencies. I am a naturally calm and confident person who likes to help people so, for those reasons, I have every reason to believe that I would react appropriately and thoughtfully if faced with an unexpected situation."
25. At VIA Rail Canada we want to see everyone succeed and grow. If we hire you, how can we support your professional goals?
How to Answer
Many companies, including VIA Rail Canada are realizing how important it is to fully support their employees when it comes to their career aspirations. It's in everyone's best interest for you to be further educated, trained well, and supported healthily.
As many organizations turn away from the hierarchical organizational structure and lean more toward a flat organizational structure, you will start to see companies show more concern for the growth and development of their employees. Think about the type of role that you would like to gain over the next few years. What kind of further education and training would you need to take, to be eligible?
1st Answer Example
"I have professional goals which include promotion into an operational management position with VIA Rail Canada over the next five years. One factor I have considered is the fact that I would need to return to school to complete my Bachelor of Management degree to be an eligible candidate. I am just a few credits shy. I noticed that VIA Rail Canada offers a tuition reimbursement program which is very generous. If you could support my professional goals, this would be the best start."
2nd Answer Example
"I genuinely appreciate this question and acknowledge the efforts that VIA Rail Canada puts into training and developing its employees. The first step for me would be to have access to a robust training plan since this is my first professional job since graduating. The more educated I am, the more comfortable I will be; ensuring better performance and faster growth within your organization."
26. What would you do if your direct supervisor was challenging to get along with, or a poor communicator?
How to Answer
The interviewer is not saying that your supervisor in this role will be a difficult person; however, they do want to know how you handle workplace situations of all types. People have moments where they are bad communicators, and every boss has a bad day, so you already know that working for someone isn't always easy.
Tell the interviewer what you do to make sure that the lines of communication are strong, no matter how well (or not well) you mesh with someone on a personal level. Be sure to express the fact that you act professionally and are focused on doing an excellent job, regardless.
Finally, if you feel it is appropriate to do so, you can ask the interviewer a bit about the working style of the person to whom you will be reporting.
1st Answer Example
"If my direct supervisor was challenging to get along with, or a poor communicator, I would take the time to learn what style of communication worked best for them. It is important that I meet people where they are, rather than expecting them to do things my way all the time. I am an exceptional communicator, which makes it easier for me to build rapport with people of all personalities and characteristics. How would you describe the working style of the person I would be reporting to, in this role?"
2nd Answer Example
"I am an independent thinker, and able to work well unsupervised, which means that if my boss were a poor communicator, I would look for a way to source what I need on my own. Being a recent university graduate, my research and independent study skills are sharp, so I would apply those same concepts to learning and performing my tasks at work. While attending post-secondary studies, I did have a few professors who were brief and disengaged. I was able to apply these concepts and still did very well in their classes."
27. It appears that your background is not in public transit. Tell me which transferable skills qualify you for this position with VIA Rail Canada?
How to Answer
This question applies to you if you do not come from a job in the public transit industry, or if you are brand new to your career. Perhaps you come from Oil & Energy, Healthcare, Engineering, or even IT. No matter which industry you have worked in, there will always be transferrable skills that can qualify you to jump industries. If you have never worked before, you will have transferable skills from school, home, volunteer, or even team sports.
Examples of transferable skills include:
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving
- Data analysis
- Industry knowledge
- Organization and planning
Take a look at the VIA Rail Canada job description and take note of the soft skills listed in the posting. These are the areas that you will want to be prepared to discuss if you are missing some of the industry-specific experience mentioned. When you craft your answer, rather than focusing on what you do not have, it's crucial that you focus on what you do have. This approach means that you should avoid starting your answer with 'Although I don't have...' or 'I do not have experience in...but...'
This question is an opportunity to sell yourself as the top candidate, so be prepared with a compelling response!
1st Answer Example
"I have many transferable skills from the chemical engineering industry, where I worked for 15 years. The VIA Rail Canada job posting mentions skills such as organizational planning, compliance, and a focus on safety. These were all priorities in my last position, and I plan to keep them as priorities in this role. Other skills that will lend to my success include my ability to lead a team, motivate others, and be an example of ethics in the workplace."
2nd Answer Example
"I am thrilled to begin my career with VIA Rail Canada and will bring a variety of important transferable skills from my time as a student and an athlete. First, I know that you are seeking a team player who can lead without being asked. I am excellent at this, considering I was the captain of my soccer team, requiring me to play to everyone's strengths while remaining sportsmanlike in a competitive environment. As a student, I learned the importance of organization. I would plan my day and weeks according to which tasks and assignments were most urgent. These are just some of the qualities that I will bring to VIA Rail Canada should you choose to hire me."
28. Every day is different at VIA Rail Canada; which requires patience and endurance. Are you a patient individual by nature?
How to Answer
Working with the public in significant volumes, as VIA Rail Canada does, you will have to be on your toes, ready to deal with situations that test your patience and endurance daily. Patience is a virtue because it does not always come easy! Be sure to highlight for the interviewer the ways that you exercise patience in your daily work life. It's vital that you express your ability to stay professional and calm no matter the situation.
1st Answer Example
"I am a patient person by nature when it comes to the public, people who need my help, or situations that require flexibility and fluidity. In my current position, my job duties are highly customer service based. I hear a lot of the same questions every day and work with the same customer grievances multiple times per week. I still treat every customer as they are their own person; never projecting feelings from one customer interaction to another. Rest assured, should you hire me at VIA Rail Canada, I will exercise the utmost professionalism in every situation."
2nd Answer Example
"My post-secondary experience has shown me that I can be patient with myself and others. There have been times, during my university career, where the learning curve was steep, and I needed to apply myself without becoming frustrated by my lack of knowledge. There were other times where I needed to be patient on group projects when I felt that my teammates were not working as fast or efficiently as they could be. For these reasons, yes, I do consider myself to be a patient individual."
29. What does exceptional customer service mean to you?
How to Answer
VIA Rail Canada strives to be the best in everything that they do; providing safety and comfort to the millions of people who ride with them every year. Think about your philosophy toward customer service.
One example of a customer service philosophy is that of Ken Blanchard, who said, 'Just having satisfied customers isn't good enough anymore. If you really want a booming business, you have to create raving fans.'
Take some time to think about what is important to you as a consumer, and also as a person working in a customer-facing position. Be sure to show enthusiasm in your response!
1st Answer Example
"To me, exceptional customer service means that you treat the customer like they are your boss. He can take your job away if unsatisfied with your performance! For this reason, I treat every customer that I come across as though they are the ones signing my paycheck. I am attentive, respectful, and helpful at every opportunity."
2nd Answer Example
"Exceptional customer service means that my primary goal is to make the life of every customer as easy as possible. Whether my interaction with them is just a moment in time, or if I communicate with them daily. I remember reading the quote by Teddy Roosevelt that says, 'People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.' I believe this thinking should be applied to customer service, as well."
30. VIA Rail Canada employees are trusted to be around passengers with valuables. Sometimes those valuables are left behind. What would you do if you found a purse full of cash left on one of our trains?
How to Answer
This question is all about honesty and integrity. The interviewer needs to know that you would choose to do the right thing, even when nobody is looking. The best way to answer this question is to give examples of integrity from your past. Because, as we all know, the best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. Integrity comes from being honest and being consistent with your moral values.
1st Answer Example
"If I were to come across a purse full of cash left on one of our trains, I would follow VIA Rail Canada protocol to a tee. It's important to me that I am trusted but also that I am kind. I would want someone to keep my belongings intact as well, should I lose something important. While working as an Uber driver, I had a passenger who lost a diamond earring during her ride. She called me the moment she noticed. I pulled over and looked for the earring and, sure enough, it had fallen between the seats. I could have lied and then sold the diamond; however, that is not something that I would do. Instead, I drove to her home and delivered the earring to her."
2nd Answer Example
"Without integrity, what do we have? One example of honesty was when I was offered last years' answer key for my algebra final. I refused to take the answers even though I could have used the boost in my mark. If I were to find valuables on a train, I would contact the person right away and make arrangements for them to get their belongings back. I look forward to training at VIA Rail Canada where I am sure to learn more surrounding protocols for these types of situations."