32 YMCA Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our YMCA 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 YMCA we believe that health is more than just exercising. If you could recommend 3 habits to our clients, for achieving optimal health, what would you recommend?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to ensure that you have a well-rounded idea of health, which will benefit YMCA customers. You can discuss the best advice that you would give a potential client or talk about some healthy habits that you follow yourself.
1st Answer Example
"I understand the importance of guiding customers to optimal health through a well-rounded approach. If I could suggest three of my top habits, besides regular exercise, I would recommend drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and avoiding unnatural food ingredients as much as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"Here are some suggestions you could make for your clients to achieve optimal health:
- Increasing vegetable intake
- Consider good fats vs. bad fats
- Choose good grains such as quinoa or brown rice
- Eat more lentils
- Try lemon water
- Do a healthy cleanse on a routine basis
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Eat more fish and less red meat
- Take the stairs whenever possible!"
2. We believe in leading by example at YMCA and seek to hire those who put their health first. What is the best thing you've ever done for your own personal health?
How to Answer
It's absolutely okay to give a personal answer for this type of interview question. Because YMCA is focused on health and wellness, you should be open and real when it comes to your own personal journey. Discuss the best choice that you've made for your personal health and the positive impact that choice has had on your life.
1st Answer Example
"The best decision that I ever made for my own personal health was to quit smoking cigarettes. I achieved this 4 years ago and haven't looked back since. I feel so much more energy and of course it's helped my skin as well."
2nd Answer Example
"The best habit that I started for myself was to go to bed early every day so that I could wake up earlier. I am more productive this way and sleep a lot better, too."
3. YMCA has many strong competitors. In your opinion, how do we stand out from the crowd?
How to Answer
It is important that you research YMCA before your interview and be sure to learn about their business landscape. Who are their competitors? What are customers saying online? Check out some popular review sites to get an idea of what the public is saying about YMCA vs their competitors. Keep your answer positive and complimentary.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that YMCA stands out through the diverse range of products and services that you offer. Your seem to have a more innovative approach than most others in the marketplace."
2nd Answer Example
"Your company seems to have an extra special touch when it comes to the care of your clients. Your follow up is really great and I enjoy your holistic approach."
4. Have you ever been a customer of YMCA? If so, describe your experience.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have experienced what it's like to be a customer / client of YMCA. It is highly recommended that you try their services and /or products before your interview. 'I have never been a customer here' is never an acceptable answer. Your answer should remain positive and complimentary. Highlight the biggest take-away from your experience.
1st Answer Example
"My first experience as a customer of YMCA was a couple of years ago when my friend recommend you. My experience was very positive and memorable which is a big reason why I applied here when I saw the job opening. I really got the impression that your employees were knowledgeable and highly trained."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a regular client here and that's actually how I was able to find out about your job posting. My experiences at YMCA have always been very positive and I look forward to seeing things from the other side."
5. Although not a requirement, we prefer to hire those with some education in health, fitness, or nutrition. Walk me through any education and training you feel would add to your success with YMCA.
How to Answer
Your education background is likely listed on your resume; however, the interviewer is looking for you to expand on that experience. If you do not have any education directly related to health, fitness, or nutrition you can choose to discuss other areas of your education that will benefit YMCA. These areas may include business training, technical skills, or sales training for instance.
1st Answer Example
"The majority of my education and training is surrounding sales and marketing. I am happy to spend time learning the health and nutrition portion of your business. Because I am well educated in business, I will be able to make a positive impact in this role right away through my strong up-selling and customer service skills."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. Some of the courses that I took included Motor Control and Learning, Introduction to Research, Statistical Inquiry, "‹Human Anatomy and Physiology. I believe that these courses will benefit my performance when it comes to the programs and services that you offer here."
6. At YMCA our clients come from all walks of life. Do you have experience with a broad range of people with varying needs?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you will be a great match for their customers, no matter their age, needs, or understanding of the health industry. Discuss the types of customers you have the most exposure to and be sure to highlight your ability to relate to the broad range of clientele at YMCA.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I have a range of clients from youth to retirement age. I love to help people of all ages who find value in taking care of their body. I am a friendly and talkative person which makes it easy for me to relate to customers from all walks of life. I look forward to developing relationships with your valued clients."
2nd Answer Example
"Currently, the majority of clients that I work with are children; however, I am capable of working with a diverse range of clientele. I am comfortable working with all ages and backgrounds."
7. What do you think is the most popular product or service we offer at YMCA?
How to Answer
Your level of knowledge about YMCA will show the interviewer just how engaged you are in the interview process. Investing time into researching YMCA before your interview will ensure that you are prepared to impress! Discuss what you think is the most popular offering by YMCA. This can even be an educated guess based on online reviews, particular products/services they feature on their website, or through their advertising efforts.
1st Answer Example
"There are a lot of great choices at YMCA that I find exciting so that's a tough question! I see your advertisements for 'Product ABC' quite a lot so I am going to guess that this is one of your most popular offerings."
2nd Answer Example
"From the research that I have conducted on your social media platforms, and website, I feel that your best services are A, and B. Is that correct? I would love to hear more."
8. We believe in continually educating our staff at YMCA. If we could offer you a course on any topic related to our business, what would you choose?
How to Answer
The interviewer is digging a bit deeper to learn about your specific interests within their industry. Perhaps you already know a great deal about fitness but you want to refine your education in nutrition. Pick one area where you would choose to expand your knowledge, if given the opportunity. Close your answer by expressing appreciation for the potential opportunity.
1st Answer Example
"I have always had a keen interest in fitness and am curious to learn more about the ways in which nutrition directly affects the body. The right foods can actually heal certain ailments and that is really interesting to me. If I could take a course on any topic related to the health industry, I would definitely choose a nutrition based topic. I am even more excited to work for YMCA knowing that you place so much value on continued education!"
2nd Answer Example
"I love this question as I am a huge fan of continued education. If I could take any coursework related to the health industry, I would take something related to holistic herbal studies."
9. We offer growth opportunities to employees who shine! How would you like to see your career grow with YMCA?
How to Answer
Before your interview be sure to visit YMCA career opportunities online. Take note of the range in opportunities. Perhaps there are opportunities in other locations or one particular job posting that caught your eye. Assure the interviewer that you desire a long term opportunity with YMCA by discussing the career path you would like.
1st Answer Example
"I saw a few leadership opportunities posted on your company website that seemed very interesting. Ultimately, I would like to work my way into a management role that offered opportunities for me to train new staff. I am a strong leader, and coach, and am confident I will shine in those areas."
2nd Answer Example
"I am interested in a variety of paths with your company. I could absolutely see myself working in your programs department, as a Program Director, as I further my knowledge on your product and services."
10. Why is health, nutrition, and weight management important to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to get to know you a little bit more from a personal perspective. This type of question is a great opportunity for you to stand out from the other candidates by offering a unique and memorable answer. This is not the time to give a general answer. Keep your reply brief but open and honest. Perhaps you have struggled with your weight, or helped someone in your family overcome an illness through healthy lifestyle changes!
1st Answer Example
"Health and nutrition has been an important part of my life from a very young age. My dad has diabetes and I have seen the positive difference it made when he started to choose a healthy lifestyle. When he exercises and makes the best food choices, he feels so much better. I think everyone should be aware of the major connection between our lifestyle choices and our quality of life."
2nd Answer Example
"My story is unique because I have been on a personal weight loss journey for the past 12 months. I have lost a total of 90 pounds and have found this strong passion for helping others to see their health related dreams become reality."
11. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
Display to the interviewer that you are able to do more that the bare minimum. Show that you are able to react appropriately when you see that your employer has a need that goes beyond your usual day-to-day expectations.
1st Answer Example
"Last week I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff were complaining that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her work load so that she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help but also benefited me by way of organization."
2nd Answer Example
"Going above and beyond is what I do on a regular basis. I do not insist on sticking with "the usual" when it comes to the level of service that my clients receive. I will always lend a hand to my coworkers when they need it, and I offer up a smile even on the tough days."
12. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
How to Answer
If you work for a larger company, you may have been asked to work on a project with teams from another department. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a big asset to your potential employer, especially if they are a larger organization.
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members from the engineering and sales teams. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
1st Answer Example
"I am regularly exposed to cross-functional teamwork in my current position. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their own strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. Primarily with the administrative department and the accounts receivable department. Clear communication is key when collaborating with different teams. Clarity in expectations is of huge importance."
13. What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?
How to Answer
Everyone will have their own particular triggers that cause them to feel dissatisfaction on the job. Talk to the interviewer about any factors that may deflate or discourage you in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I can feel dissatisfaction on the job when I am not feeling heard or when there is not a mutual respect among the team members. I work best in more harmonious situations where there is little drama or gossip."
2nd Answer Example
"I have felt dissatisfied on the job when I feel underpaid and overworked. I don't mind working hard at all but I don't like to feel as though I'm being taken advantage of."
14. Why is this job with YMCA right for you, at this time?
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical "I am looking for growth" answer that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.
1st Answer Example
"I am looking for growth"
2nd Answer Example
"This is the right job for me because it is what I have been trained to do. My education and previous work history are related to the role and the industry, making it a perfect fit."
15. Who would you say inspires you?
How to Answer
This question is something that you should have an answer ready for at all times.
Perhaps you look up to a parent who was a hard worker or a teacher who encouraged you to become who you are today. Whomever this inspiring person may be, remember that it's an answer from the heart that the interviewer is looking for.
1st Answer Example
"My inspiration comes from my grandmother. She has spent every day of her life working hard and I have never once heard her complain about being tired and overworked. She taught me the value of a good reputation and I still seek out her opinion when I need inspiration."
2nd Answer Example
"There are a few individuals in this industry who inspire me. I follow a few industry influencers such as Rich Froning, Jennifer Cohen, and Steve Kamb. They inspire me because they are smart, and encourage healthy eating and smart fitness regimes."
16. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
17. What work situations excite and motivate you?
How to Answer
It is important, for your success, that the hiring manager knows how to keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive.
1st Answer Example
"I am most motivated, on the job, when tasks are organized and the vibe is positive. I really value strong teamwork and good leadership."
2nd Answer Example
"Paving new paths and creating structures to support organizations excite me the most. I am self motivated and enjoy seeing my hard work make a difference for an organization."
18. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
How to Answer
Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members.
1st Answer Example
"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to make a positive impact on the lives of others and see them grow so I do continually encourage them, verbally. Words of affirmation can be very motivating for most people."
19. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2 and those were accompanied by a note from my Doctor. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I was absent a total of 5 days last year, excluding my vacation time. All of my absences were previously excused by my manager."
20. What is your availability?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask!
Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations.
If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.
1st Answer Example
"I am available for full time work which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"
2nd Answer Example
"If overtime is required in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever I can. My only restriction is that I cannot work Wednesday nights as I have an evening course those days."
21. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?
How to Answer
Terminations and corrective discipline measures can be very difficult to do but, with experience, they do get easier. Talk to the interviewer about the extent of your experience with terminations and discipline.
If you do have the experience: "I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."
1st Answer Example
"I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have the experience: "I have not been in a position to perform terminations or hold corrective discipline meetings; however, I would be willing to perform these types of tasks with a small amount of training and research."
22. Have you ever been advised by a fellow employee or supervisor to lie about a situation? How did you handle this ethical dilemma?
How to Answer
Ethical dilemmas in the workplace will come up from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you are able to handle these types of dilemmas with professionalism and poise.
1st Answer Example
"I have never been told to lie to a fellow employee or supervisor on the job. If I were to be asked to lie I absolutely would not do that. I am not the type of personality to be pushed around on the job. I will always be myself and keep my integrity first."
2nd Answer Example
"From my recollection, I have not been asked to lie while in the workplace. I would not tolerate being put in an ethical dilemma."
23. How do you define success?
How to Answer
What does success mean to you? Tell the interviewer how you see success and be sure to tie your answer into the success that you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."
2nd Answer Example
"To me, success means doing what you love and what you are good at, while making a difference in the lives of others."
24. Tell me about a time when you effectively delegated tasks.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of confidently delegating tasks to your employees or coworkers.
A great leader is someone who can effectively manage their time by ensuring tasks are fairly divided while utilizing the strengths of others.
Display to the interviewer that you have the wherewithal to recognize the strengths of your team by delegating tasks which compliment their individual skill sets.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I was asked to put together a team for a special client project. I was able to handpick the team members and organize the project execution. I chose my strongest employees in a variety of areas. In our initial meeting, I delegated the tasks while explaining my reasoning. This was a great opportunity for me to show each team member that I had the utmost confidence in their abilities. I played to their strengths and it worked out really well. We delivered to our client on time and under budget."
2nd Answer Example
"Every month I have a meeting with all team members to talk about our plan for the month and how we will delegate the work. It's a great strategy for us and everyone starts the month with laid out expectations."
25. What type of goals do you like to set for yourself and your team?
How to Answer
What types of goals are you most keen on setting for your employees? Talk to the interviewer about the types of goals that you find most important.
1st Answer Example
"I put my team's goals into three categories. Financial goals, client acquisition goals, and personal growth goals. Financial goals focus on their monetary sales targets for the quarter. Client acquisition goals are the amount of new client relationships that they bring in. And personal growth goals focus on their own professional development. This can include taking a course or reading a new career related book."
2nd Answer Example
"The goals that my team focus' on most are the amount of happy clients helped, the amount of volunteer hours we have put in, and of course - our profit. We reassess these goals every month."
26. YMCA is asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have 5 years' experience vs 8 years' experience I can absolutely do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my 5 years working in this industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
27. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem solving, the decisions do not always come easily. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results.
Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on.
Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader which means that my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast-thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a very important and busy day for us. I called a temp agency and they had the position filled in just one hour."
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergency situations. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required I will do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."
28. What is your current salary?
How to Answer
A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.
1st Answer Example
"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 plus a car allowance of $900/month and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."
29. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
2nd Answer Example
"Stress is part of any demanding job and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself personally and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
30. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
How to Answer
Many interviewers will start off with this question, which could throw you off a bit. You've done all of this research on the company but have you prepared to talk about yourself?
The interviewer is looking for relevant information to the position you applied for. Respond by mentioning your education, how many years of experience you have in your field, and be sure give some details about your most current position. Conclude your response with a statement about what you are looking for in a position at this time.
1st Answer Example
"
2nd Answer Example
"With pleasure! I have over 10 years in experience with selling professional services and am interested in growing my career to the next level. On a more personal note, I love to read, go hiking and spend a lot of my extra time volunteering with the humane society."
31. Where did you come across our job posting, and what prompted you to apply with YMCA?
How to Answer
The employer would like to know what methods and resources you are using in your job search so they can determine which of their methods is working best. You can expand your answer to include any other exposure you have had to the company.
1st Answer Example
"I initially saw your job posting on LinkedIn, however I have been exposed to your organization many times before through your radio commercials and advertisements on Facebook."
2nd Answer Example
"For the last 8 months, I have been contemplating a move and keeping my eye out for the perfect opening. When I saw this position open on your website, I knew I had to go for it, and I am so happy I did. It feels right. "
32. What do you hope to gain from this position with YMCA?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are making a move that makes sense for you and your career, at this time. Share something you are hoping to gain from this role that you are not currently receiving from your current or most recent position.
Maybe the job posting says, "Must be well versed in social media marketing." You could reply with: "I love using social media for business marketing but haven't had as much opportunity to do so in my current position. I see that you are seeking someone well versed and passionate in this area. It's exactly the type of responsibility have missed in my current position."
1st Answer Example
"
2nd Answer Example
"What I am looking for, and hope to gain from this position, is the career growth that I have been missing in my current position. I would love to expand on my sales experience and leadership skills while working with a company that I am proud to be a part of."