35 iQor Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our iQor Ltd. 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.
Table of Contents
- 1. Behavioral Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Customer Service Questions
- 5. Diversity Questions
- 6. Education Questions
- 7. EQ Questions
- 8. Experience Questions
- 9. Flexibility Questions
- 10. Innovation Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Onboarding Questions
- 13. Schedule Questions
Behavioral
1. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
What You Need to Know
This get-to-know-you question allows you the opportunity to make yourself memorable, and sets you apart from a typical resume, and the other competing candidates. Try to share something fun, unique, and relatable which could ptoentially generate some conversation, thereby making you a more memorable candidate! Providing them unique insights into your personality will aid them in determining how well you'll compliment their environment.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."
2nd Answer Example
"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I also am a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you."
Behavioral
2. What are your salary expectations?
What You Need to Know
This question evaluates your expectations, realistic or not, as well as your self-awareness of how this interview has gone so far. Your answer will speak to your professionalism, and therefore your professional worth. Educated transparency is the best route. Revealing how you've calibrated your suggested salary frequently serves as a strong performance indicator. One method is to contrast your current pay rate with where you stand on your career trajectory. Feel free to take into consideration bonuses and incentives. You could even factor in your commute, the job market climate, and any benefits you've had or are hoping for, such as medical/vision/dental. Be open, realistic, honest, and open to negotiation.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
Behavioral
3. Our industry is a competitive one. Why do you specifically want to work for iQor?
What You Need to Know
Thoroughly research the company, the position, and their core values and mission before your interview. Assess how these fit into your career goal. Prepare to explain where you are interested in taking your career, and the type of work environment your envision taking you there. Elaborate on how iQor Ltd. compliments fits the mold. Putting such thought, and effectively communicating this complicated subject to your interviewer will spoeak to your professionalism.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I understand that iQor Ltd. has some strong competitors but when I was researching new employment opportunities, your company always seemed to have the most positive message. I also know a couple of people who have worked with iQor Ltd. and they had only great things to say about your compensation, culture, and growth opportunities."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that iQor would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training to support that growth."
Behavioral
4. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?
What You Need to Know
This question aims to reveal your level of integrity, honesty, and your work ethic. Discuss your experiences with confidentiality agreement or NDAs, and your approach towards such legal agreements.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I never have, to my knowledge, broken a confidentiality agreement. Despite my reasons for leaving a position, I would never choose to hurt a previous employer in any way."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand the importance of confidentiality agreements and would never breach a sensitive agreement like that."
Behavioral
5. At iQor we deal with sensitive and confidential client information. Are you willing to complete a full background check?
What You Need to Know
Most companies in the IT and IT Services industry need to be very cautious about who they hire. They want to take every measure to protect their clients' personal information from falling into the wrong hands. Validate your understanding of why such precautions are necessary. Exhibit professional respect for the cost of performing a background check on a potential candidate, and disclose anything that might come up. Assure the interviewer that you are willing to comply with any form of background check they require.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I have a strong credit history. I do not participate in drug use, either. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role with iQor Ltd., I will maintain a clean record."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I can certainly complete a full background check. I should disclose to you ahead of time that I have a mark on my record from about eight years ago, for a DUI. I am still able to travel, and no longer have restrictions on my drivers' license."
Behavioral
6. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer is curious what type of leadership brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability, while others prefer space and autonomy. There are five main leadership types; authoritarian, participative, delegative, transactional, and transformational. Discuss what you perceive as the benefits of your preferred style of leadership, and why you feel that approach is a more motivating approach.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best in an independent and autonomous environment. Can you describe the management style here?"
2nd Answer Example
Here are some management styles:
- Directive Autocrat
- Permissive Autocrat
- Consultative Style
- Persuasive Style
- Inclusive
- Democratic Style
- MBWA (Management By Walking Around)
- Laissez-faire
- Mentorship Style
Behavioral
7. What part of this career brings you the most stress?
What You Need to Know
What they are looking for in your answer is less so what on-the-job-stress-triggers you have, but more so that you are effective in managing your stress without compromising the quality of your performance.
Discuss which areas of your career you find stressful, and how you cope with your stress and work through it. Exhibiting a strong sense of emotional intelligence can go a long way here. Send the clear signal that when stressful situations occur in the workplace, that you are adept at managing your stress, thereby preventing it from controlling you.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are assisted properly."
2nd Answer Example
"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire to be/do the best I can be. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."
Behavioral
8. What questions do you have for me about iQor?
What You Need to Know
You are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. This question will help them not only assess your genuine interest in working for them but also clue them into whether you are the type of person to ask questions when training for a new job. The more questions you ask, the more enhanced your communication skills will seem, suggesting you're self-guided and successful at your job. Avoid discussing pay, incentives, or benefits. This will suggest you're only in it for the money, sending a red flag that your goals and values are not aligned with theirs.
What does a typical day, from beginning to end, look like for an intern starting in the program?
When would you like to have this position filled?
How long has this role been vacant?
Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
What is your favorite part about working here?
What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
Behavioral
9. How would your most recent manager describe you?
What You Need to Know
This question serves a few purposes. One, it tests how effectively you manage your stress in real time. It also tests your level of self-awareness, and how career focussed you are, with an aim to identify growth opportunities with which to measure your success. Draw from your last performance review, a piece of feedback you received from your most recent boss or coworkers. The note you want to strike is one of self-awareness, taking responsibility for your own actions, identifying your growth opportunities, and continually striving towards professional self growth.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my recent performance reviews and discussions, my manager describes me as a hard worker, motivated and consistent employee. I always strive to exceed expectations when I can. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference as well."
2nd Answer Example
"My last manager and I had a close relationship. She appreciated all of my efforts when it came to working overtime and taking my work home when required. I believe she would describe me as unique, reliable and energetic."
Career Goals
10. Why is this job with iQor right for you, at this time in your career?
What You Need to Know
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. Detail how this opportunity is conducive to your career goals at this point in time, making this shift necessary. 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, professional, and offer your perceptions of how you landing in this position at this point in time could prove mutually beneficial to all concerned.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in IT while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
2nd Answer Example
"This job is right for me at this time in my career because I am prepared and ready to take on a management position. I feel that your company would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training."
Career Goals
11. Describe to me your ideal employer.
What You Need to Know
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. For you to compliment their teams, work environment and the culture of their brand, they must also compliment your career plans, goals, and objectives. Consider what that looks like, describe what your ideal employer looks like, and break down the ways which iQor Ltd fits that mold.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some other ways you could describe a great employer. A great employer will:
- Pause to have fun now and then but also know when to be serious
- Treat everyone fairly, and equally
- Offer rewards for great work
- Offer a continually challenging environment
- Offer flexibility and understands that personal situations come up from time to time
- Encourage a collaborative workplace
Career Goals
12. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
What You Need to Know
Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future. Also, in order to plot out your career, project your career progression, and adjust it along the way, draft up a five-yer career plan. Doing so will ensure you can adjust your goals accordingly. By learning from your setbacks, you'll come closer to meeting the goals you've set for yourself within your projected timelines.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been very intentional with my career moves and progression and am happy with the path that my career has taken me."
Communication
13. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
What You Need to Know
Take care with your choice of words and what they might communicate. Communication is more than getting everyone on the same page. It's about how a message is conveyed. By asking for your preferred method of communication, they're gauging your aptitude towards every method of communication, verbal and written. Best to strike a balance of above average writing skills and above average oral communication skills. Describe how you've contributed to enhancing clearer communication.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression and body language. I will always choose a face to face conversation whenever possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to leverage both methods of communications when dealing in business. Sometimes, situations call for verbal communications and other times, written. As a rule of thumb, I tend to practice verbal communications, with written follow up. Utilizing multiple methods creates repetition and therefore, change."
Communication
14. iQor seeks to hire those with above average communication skills. Describe your communication style to me.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants assurances your communication style will compliment their culture. Acknowledge the value of clear communication. Discuss in detail your communication skills, what tools you implement to enhance communication between all parties, and how you are adept at adapting your communication style to others, not the other way around.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have been a client of iQor Ltd. in the past and can truly say that positive communication with your clients is what makes you the most popular choice in the area. I am confident that my communication skills will work well here because my focus always remains on simple solutions, easy to understand language, and a friendly tone."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some additional words to describe your communication style:
- Energetic
- Lively
- Articulate
- Eloquent
- Informal
- Formal
- Succinct
Customer Service
15. We put a great deal of pride in our customer service at iQor. How will you contribute to our high customer service standards?
What You Need to Know
Your interviewer is gauging the level of your customer service acumen and how adept and effective you are at diplomacy, mediation, and negotiation. In customer service, it is essential to work swiftly towards a communal end goal. Being able to non-defensively communicate with a wide range of personalities is the desired trait of an emotionally intelligent communicator. Spend time researching iQor Ltd. reviews, their online presence, and their website. Take note of recurring keywords when it comes to their customer service standards. What are their clients saying? Speak confidently about how you plan to uphold their strong customer service standards if hired.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Your customers have a strong voice, and I noticed a consistent theme in your online reviews and presence. The theme was that you offer friendly, fast, and easy to understand service. I plan to contribute to this by learning my role quickly and continuing to be an approachable and helpful point of contact for the customers who need us."
2nd Answer Example
"I will contribute to your high customer service standards by offering a listening ear and ensuring that I fully understand your products and services. The more I know, the more I will be able to offer your client base."
Diversity
16. When have you worked amongst a diverse group of people?
What You Need to Know
Today's thought leaders suggest in order to foster innovation talent needs to be drawn across boundaries. This requires everyone within a company to have a professional degree of cultural competence. Diversity questions are one way to determine your cultural competence.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time in University. I am most comfortable, and happy, in this type of environment because it offers a great learning opportunity."
2nd Answer Example
"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life help shed different perspectives and identify potential problems faster."
Education
17. At iQor we seek to hire those with a passion for the IT industry. How do you stay up to date on industry changes and current events?
What You Need to Know
To convey the level of your professional ambition and exude that you are a career minded professional requires a passion for keeping up to date on industry terms, trends, and news. Offer up the methods you stay up to date by referring to specific avenues and sources. You can follow up by asking the interviewer about their favorite resources, and strike up conversation by sharing any recent relevent news in your industry.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"This industry is ever-changing, and I have a true and keen interest in keeping up-to-date on those changes. I regularly read a couple of great online publications including PC Mag and Wired. Do you have any recommendations for great resources?"
2nd Answer Example
"My current employer sends a daily email with the company and industry updates. This update is beneficial and, I am sure to read it thoroughly every day. I also have Google alerts set up so that I am up to date on new trends and happenings in the industry."
Education
18. At iQor we believe in continued education of our employees. If you could take a course or workshop on any topic, what would you choose?
What You Need to Know
Working for a company which emphasizes the importance of continued education can be an enriching opportunity. Be prepared to talk to the interviewer about your interest in expanding your career knowledge and skills, and the direction you'd like to take, which you'd see as furthering your career goals and pursuits. Go above and beyond by aligning those interests in a way which would benefit you in this position.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I love that iQor Ltd. emphasizes continued education. This offering is one of the qualities I was looking for, in my next opportunity. If I could take a course or workshop on any topic I would choose to focus on IT Management. My goal is to grow into a management level position, and that would be a great stepping stone to get there."
2nd Answer Example
"That is very exciting news to hear. I value continued education as well. If I could continue my education in any area, I would do a deeper dive into IT Security and IT Security Management."
Education
19. Walk me through your post-secondary education and how it will help you in your career with iQor.
What You Need to Know
Your interviewer is asking is for you to take a few minutes to bring the educational experience listed on your resume to life. Go into detail on the life lessons and experiences that lent themselves to your professional growth. Discuss the strengths you gained during your post-secondary training and how those skills will be used in your new position with iQor Ltd..
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I completed my Bachelor of Applied Technology from Carnegie Mellon University in 2004. During that time I specialized in Data Management and Analysis. I graduated with a 3.67 GPA, one of the top in my class. One of the biggest take-away's from my post-secondary experience was learning how to manage my time while working on multiple projects successfully. I perfected my multi-tasking skills and look forward to bringing those to work for iQor Ltd.."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I do not have formal post-secondary education, I have taken some courses in customer support, upselling, and a variety of software programs. I look forward to gaining even more knowledge in this role with iQor."
EQ
20. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
What You Need to Know
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. However, the heart of this question centers on what you learn and take from experiencing a setback, and how to turn that failure around into a success. If you suffer a setback or a failure, and you feel bad about it and take time to recover, but fail to steer your focus on what you could have done better to prevent that set back from happening in the first place, then you've experienced a failure. Learning from that setback and taking measures to ensure it doesn't repeat turns that failure around into a success.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
2nd Answer Example
"Setbacks happen for a reason, and they do not affect me emotionally in the least. I am a very pragmatic thinker and stay focused despite the challenges that come my way."
Experience
21. What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?
What You Need to Know
The way you answer this question will give them a good idea of how your last role prepared you for this opportunity, your experience level and leadership potential, seniority, and ability to handle the decision-making requirements in this possible position. Highlight the more subtle ways these experiences prepared you for this role.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position I was quite often required to make decisions on staff scheduling as well as hiring and terminating. I feel that role prepared me quite well for a position like this one. I have well-honed decision-making skills and my intuition, when it comes to hiring, has been elevated."
2nd Answer Example
"I was responsible for planning the content calendar: emails, blog post topics, and timing, social media posts, in addition to actually executing the plans. That means everything from creating web copy, to choosing images, and the like. Also, I collaborate with management to decide what promotions and sales we will be running, and when."
Experience
22. How do you evaluate success among your team members?
What You Need to Know
When leading a team, it is imperative to monitor the success of each team member. One underperforming team player can hurt the productivity of the entire group. So how do you go about communicating with, mentoring and motivating your team in an engaging way where they'll take pride in their work and be emotionally invested in the success of the team as a whole?
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have a very in-depth and successful system for evaluating success among my team members. I check in twice per week with each member of my team. On Mondays - to set our goals together. Then, on Fridays, to discuss any successes and challenges. I have them self-evaluate, and then we create a plan for success for the upcoming week. I evaluate their success based on their follow through and willingness to work hard to reach their goals."
2nd Answer Example
"I typically have KPI (key performance indicators) in place to measure the success of each of the members of the team. I also manage our overall success in working together. For example, are we hitting on key initiatives within the department, developing each other for succession planning and having fun along the way!"
Experience
23. Give me an example of a time when you had to be extra diligent in order to meet a deadline.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer is curious if you handle your work with diligence and accuracy. Detail your method for proofing your work for inconsistencies. Touch on your organization skills, your approach to project management, the level of your attention to detail, and the standard you set for your own work.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Last month I had a client who made a lot of additional and last minute changes to our project. Despite the changes, our deadline remained the same. Our project lead was becoming increasingly stressed that we would not meet our deadline so I agreed to stay late three nights that week to ensure that all expectations were met."
2nd Answer Example
"I am always diligent when it comes to deadlines. However, once I remember having an abnormally large order from a regular client once. I was a little stressed about making sure it was perfect, but I was confident, and we met our deadline with no issue."
Experience
24. We are asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
What You Need to Know
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you exhibit the equivalent career advancement. This is your opportunity to advertise your major career successes and how you've exceeded your career goals and objectives. Elaborate diplomatically on how you feel you've advanced ahead of your peers. This may demonstrate you as a desirable fit, and suggest you will advance much faster in their company as well.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Although I have five years' experience vs. eight years' experience I can 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 five years working in the IT industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career, such as telecommunications and securities. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
Experience
25. Do you always double check or proofread your work?
What You Need to Know
The goal of this question is to get you to open up and share your system processes, work style and ethic, and how you go about insuring the quality of your work exceed expectations. Disclose your trade secrets, and how you go about attaining consistent quality while meeting deadlines.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple check my work if there is time! I feel that it is essential to submit error-free work."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, absolutely I do! Accuracy is incredibly important in the IT industry and I would never compromise quality in order to save time."
Experience
26. Tell me about your experience in the field of IT services.
What You Need to Know
It is critical that you study the job description before your interview. When the interviewer asks this question, be sure to highlight the related experience that you have to contribute to this position. Detail situations where your unique soft or hard skill set contributed to your field. Anything and everything that might set you apart from your competition.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I bring all of the experience that you are looking for in filling this position. In addition to being an expert user in SAP, I also bring five years' experience in desk side support and as a bilingual IT support agent."
2nd Answer Example
"I have eight years of industry experience with Company ABC and XYZ. Both experiences taught me a great deal about IT, and I am excited to continue my career in this industry with your organization."
Experience
27. What are your thoughts on web-based, click to chat support solutions?
What You Need to Know
Before your interview, ensure you fully research everything you can about iQor Ltd., their full product line and services. If there are articles, content, blogs or interviews with their executives, read them through. You just might find web-based, click to chat support solutions discussed in a feature or media piece which their company takes pride in. Before launching into the pros and cons of web-based, click to chat support solutions, make sure you are up to date on all industry related news and developments in your field. Communicate clearly, showing that you are an informed professional who is proactive in staying up to date with your industry.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have heard mixed reviews from customers on this type of service. In my opinion, any service that allows a client quick access to answers is a positive thing. Have you noticed a shift in your client relationships since implementing this type of solution?"
2nd Answer Example
"Personally, I like the idea of click to chat support solutions so long as they don't become 'spammy.' The placement of the pop-up box should be convenient, and they should be personalized, so they do not appear to be a templated after-thought to the end-user."
Flexibility
28. When have you had to change a major component of your project due to new information being presented?
What You Need to Know
Being able to switch gears and adjust your focus will attest to your felxability, and how well you adapt to change. Thinking on your feet, and not being stuck in task paralysis while projecting optimism will speak to your emotional intelligence. Share an example when a significant change occurred on a project. How did you handle the implementation of the new information?
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I had a large project last month that was nearly complete when the client called to say that the dimensions provided were incorrect. Because of this, our team had to re-do the entire proposal. It took us an additional four days of work but, in the end, the client was delighted with our work, and it resulted in new opportunities with them."
2nd Answer Example
"Last year we saw new federal regulations come through which affected 80% of our ongoing projects. We had to adjust our plans quickly; however, we were able to deliver a timely product that met federal regulations."
Innovation
29. At iQor we have detailed procedures in place for client technical support. What would you do if those procedures did not appear to be working?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to understand how you handle high-pressure situations and unexpected difficulties in the workplace. How you answer will attest to your team mentality, your communication skills, and what resources you tap into when things don't go according to plan.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"It is important to always have procedures in place, but I understand that sometimes those procedures do not encompass all client needs. If I came across a situation like this, I would rely on my knowledge and experience to troubleshoot and find a solution. If I did not have the answer, I would then ask for help from my supervisor or a colleague. It is important to stay calm in situations like these, so the client remains confident in our capabilities. I would never tell a client that I didn't have an answer. 'I will find out' is always the best answer."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not mind going slightly off script if needed. There are sometimes extenuating circumstances where the process does not necessarily work. I will gain permission from my employer if it's a bigger concern than usual since I still want to follow the procedure as much as possible."
Leadership
30. What is your approach to managing up?
What You Need to Know
Contrary to micromanaging or second guessing your manager, managing up suggest keeping your eye on the big picture and supporting the vision of your team leaders. When managing up you are performing your in a way that makes your manager's job, as well as yours, much easier on a day to day basis. It also suggest you are a supportive team member, with leadership potential, who exhibits a work ethic of going above and beyond ith consistency.
Try to think of the ways in which you actively try to go above and beyond in supporting your leaders. Detail the occasions where you were the go-to-clutch-player. What did you do, and how did you go about it? Use these points to build out your answer.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"My standard is simply putting my all in being the most effective employee I can be. I make efforts to foster relationships with my leaders and offer transparent feedback. As an objective set of eyes and ears, I try to enhance inter-department communication by adapting to and anticipating their needs. Assisting them with our big-picture goals, exhibiting a high level of emotional maturity, and expressing appreciation for their ccontributions,I strive to be a supporting force in helping them deliver our mutual success. We're all working towards our mutual, so we should all put our all in helping us get there."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
31. How would you describe the difference between working hard vs working smart?
What You Need to Know
By determining your familiarity with this concept, they can ascertain your experience level and how well you'll compliment their teams. Hard work can translate to long and taxing hours. Working smart demonstrates your capacity to prioritize, organize, and manage your time. Acknowledge there's a time and place for working hard vs. working smart, and how they each play into each other, whether performing the smart work, approach yourself or delegating the necessary harder work to others. Often when working smarter, the time it takes to perform the hard work is cut in half, lightening your work load and enhancing your time management.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm of the opinion one should aim for both. Work hard while evaluating kaizen opportunities where there's room for improvement. Focus on quality, then quantity. When taken with a systems approach, constantly seeking minor improvements, it should take me less effort to produce the same content."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
32. What characteristics or events have contributed towards your success as a leader?
What You Need to Know
Contrast this question with the nuances of the role for which you are applying. Describe your style and the approach you take to your work. Remember, whether this is a leadership role or one where you are working side by side with others, consider how you would lead by example and strive to be an over-achiever in your position.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There is a multitude of factors that have helped me to become a strong leader. First and foremost; I had an outstanding mentor from a young age. Secondly, I have studied leadership at great length. My personality has also contributed to my success as I am a natural coach, teacher, and leader."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some other factors that make a successful leader:
- Having a good example, and replicating that example
- Working on continual development, both professionally and personally
- Being diligent when it comes to fully understanding your business
- The ability to make solid decisions, in a timely manner
- The ability to delegate when you know you aren't the best person for the task
- Maintaining a positive attitude even when times are tough
- Admitting when you are wrong, and holding yourself accountable
- Keeping your team in the loop on current and upcoming changes
Leadership
33. How do you make tough decisions knowing they will affect your entire team?
What You Need to Know
It can be difficult to make challenging decisions when you know that your entire team will be affected. Your ability to be decisive and diplomatic will speak to your leadership skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Leaders are truly set apart by their ability to make tough decisions respectfully and diplomatically. Last year we had to lay off 25% of our sales team. I knew that there would be feelings hurt and it was challenging to do. I got through it by reminding myself that I am the leader for a reason. I needed to trust my judgment but still be able to justify my decisions in the end. Many times when tough choices are in front of me, I will back up my gut feeling with data analysis. If the data supports my intuition, I know what the answer or decision needs to be."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that when you are working with a team, it is important to bring any questions or situations to the team before making a decision. Everyone should have input; however, the leader needs to be able to pull the trigger on all decisions in the end."
Onboarding
34. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?
What You Need to Know
Most people have a strong desire to prove themselves by making a positive impact immediately after being hired. However, doing so before you've built relationships with your new team, and slowly introduced them to your work style and work ethic could backfire. Without understanding your approach or motives could lead to all sorts of resistance and communication issues which could thereby hamper productivity for the team as a whole. This is why the 30/60/90 rule exists. In the first month, a new hire should focus on building relationships with the team, familiarizing themselves with company, products/services, clients, etc. Month two should be invested in studying current processes and procedures, and identifying systematic strengths and weaknesses. In the final probationary month, you should then should be well-grounded in the role and capable of identifying growth opportunities, with a more mature understand why their current systems are in place to begin with. Past the 90 day mark is considered an acceptable time to implement innovation and prove your acumen.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. If hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."
2nd Answer Example
"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter, and year to identify any bottlenecks or shortfalls and set a plan to correct them."
Schedule
35. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
What You Need to Know
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. However, not knowing in advance could suggest to the interviewer that you were ill prepared for the interview. This could indicate you often come to work ill prepared, and lack the professionalism they require for filling this role.
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.
Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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."