28 Automobiles Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Automobiles interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals who have a keen interest in the automobile industry. What interests you most about what we do?
How to Answer
Having a genuine interest in the automobile industry is going to be very important to the interviewer. A keen interest in this industry tells the hiring manager that you will most likely be engaged throughout your tenure.
1st Answer Example
"I have always had a keen interest in the automobile industry because style and technology is always changing. It's an exciting industry to be in! I am really interested in learning more about the technology that you have in your latest SUV models."
2nd Answer Example
"The automobile industry is always changing, and what interests me most about this industry is that almost everyone takes note when a breakthrough is made. Even if you don't consider yourself a vehicle lover, you can't help but take note of new trends and exciting innovations."
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2. At Company ABC we like to hire those who see a future in the automobile industry. Where do you see this position taking you in the future?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the type of career growth that you would like to see with Company ABC. Why do you want a career in the auto industry, and how do you think this position will help you to get there?
1st Answer Example
"I love sales and would be thrilled to have a lucrative career in sales with Company ABC. What excites me most about this opportunity is that there is room for advancement into a team leadership role. I would definitely like to work my way to a sales management position with Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to learn as much as possible about this industry and eventually be in charge of a team within the service department."
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3. At Company ABC we like to train our employees in their particular areas of interest. If you could have training in any specific area, which topic would you choose?
How to Answer
Many companies will offer training to their top performing employees. If you could take additional training in any related area, what would you choose? Talk to the interviewer about the topics that interest you.
1st Answer Example
"If I could take training in any area with Company ABC I would first like to become a subject matter expert on your particular products and technology."
2nd Answer Example
"I would be thrilled to take additional training on negotiations and closing a sale. I'm happy to hear that you offer continued training for your employees!"
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4. I see that you have recently worked for one of our direct competitors. Do you have a non-compete agreement in place?
How to Answer
In competitive markets such as the automobile industry you may sometimes be asked to sign a non-compete or non-disclosure agreement. Be honest and open with the interviewer about any existing restrictions you may have when it comes to working for a competing organization.
If you have a non-compete agreement: "I did sign a non-compete with my current company; however, it just asks that I do not purposefully poach any of my clients from the past 3 years. I am not restricted when it comes to accepting offers of employment from competing dealerships."
1st Answer Example
"I did sign a non-compete with my current company; however, it just asks that I do not purposefully poach any of my clients from the past 3 years. I am not restricted when it comes to accepting offers of employment from competing dealerships."
2nd Answer Example
If you do not have a non-compete agreement: "I am happy to say that I do not have any restrictions to my employment."
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5. What has been your biggest sale, to date?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of handling all purchases, big and small! Talk about your largest sale and how you were able to close that particular deal.
1st Answer Example
"My largest sale, to date, was actually last week! I sold two top of the line models to one customer who paid in cash. It was the best sales day of my career so far."
2nd Answer Example
"The biggest sale that I have made to date was around $40,000. It was really exciting to close that deal and I can't wait to do it again!"
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6. At Company ABC we set daily, weekly, and monthly targets for all of our sales employees. Have you worked with very specific KPI's as of late?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with strict sales targets. If you have worked in this type of environment before, talk about what you did to ensure that your KPI's were met. Discuss your ability to work under the pressure associated with sales expectations.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, we have many KPI's and other metrics that are measured and discussed in our weekly sales meetings. I am consistently a top performer in my company. I do thrive on the high expectations because the rewards are so high as well."
2nd Answer Example
"My current position is 100% commission driven, so I fully understand the importance of meeting KPI's. Currently, my targets are very specific and I exceed them on a regular basis."
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7. At Company ABC we have many competitors. Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Researching the company before your interview is a very important task. After you have conducted your research, why do you want to work for Company ABC as opposed to their competitors? Be positive and talk to the interviewer about the great attributes of Company ABC that make you want to work specifically for them.
1st Answer Example
"I want to work for Company ABC because you have a reputation of putting your customers first, building a pristine product, and being fair to your employees. Your industry reputation is impressive and I would be proud to work here."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a couple of friends who work for Company ABC and they only have great things to say about working here. I'd be thrilled to join your team."
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8. Tell me about your sales performance this year.
How to Answer
Numbers and percentages don't lie! This is the best time to brag about yourself and your achievements in your current / most recent position.
1st Answer Example
"So far this year, I am 113% to target with 3 more months to go. I have been the top sales performer in our dealership for the past 5 months. I attribute this to my great follow up habits as well as my strong cold calling skills."
2nd Answer Example
"My supervisor is very happy with my performance so far this year. I fully expect to exceed my targets this quarter."
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9. Many positions in our company are fully commissioned. Are you confident enough in your sales abilities to work on 100% commission?
How to Answer
Talking about salary and compensation expectations can be uncomfortable but it is a very necessary conversation between yourself and the hiring manager. Have you recently worked in a commission driven type of role? How are you currently compensated? Be open and communicative when it comes to your needs and compensation desires.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked on 100% commission in my last two sales positions; however, that is not my preference for the first few months as I become comfortable in a new position. Currently I am on a compensation guarantee of $4K/month or full commission, whichever is greater. What are you offering in this particular role?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in a 100% commission role for many years. I am comfortable enough with my sales abilities and customer base to take on another commission driven role."
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10. Walk me through your automobile industry experience.
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely already have your resume in front of them which means they are not looking for a dull play-by-play on your work history. They are asking you to bring your resume to life for them! This means talking about your key successes. Take a few minutes to highlight each position briefly. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a little bit.
1st Answer Example
"I started my career in the automobile industry in 2009 with Company XYZ. In that role I was the top employee for 9 months running. I was offered a promotion and moved to Chicago where i stayed for 4 years. After being offered a regional sales manager role with Company ABC. In total I have 6 years of automobile industry experience with great results and successes."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent graduate from Cambridge University. There, I took many classes on business, sales, and marketing. While attending University, I worked part time for my uncle's auto dealership. I wasn't in a sales function but did act as a sales support to the existing sales team. I look forward to expanding my knowledge in the automotive industry, and working for Company ABC."
11. In your opinion, what sets our product apart from our competitors?
How to Answer
All you need to know is one major point that sets Company ABC apart from their competitors. Perhaps it's their product pricing, their technology, their overall reputation, or longevity in the industry. Choose one factor that impresses you the most and briefly discuss this with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Company ABC a great deal and feel that the one thing that sets your product apart from others is the fact that you have the most incredible manufacturer's guarantee on the market. Buyers want security when they make such a large purchase and Company ABC offers just that."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that what sets your product apart from others is that it is already fairly priced, without having to add the gimmicks of steep discounts, family pricing, and blowout sales; for example. Your brand is trusted and you know how to show the value of your product through more than just the price tag."
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12. The automobile industry is competitive. Are you comfortable working in a competitive environment?
How to Answer
Often times, positions within the automotive industry are sales and numbers driven. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable and capable to work within a highly competitive environment.
1st Answer Example
"I am certainly accustomed to working in a competitive environment. My previous positions include keeping track of daily, weekly, and monthly sales metrics. I am absolutely able to thrive in a competitive environment."
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been a competitive individual. From playing team sports my entire life, to working in commissioned retail environments. I am definitely comfortable with some friendly competition!"
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13. At Company ABC we put a lot of pride in our customer service. How do you go above and beyond for your clientele?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you take customer service seriously. Use an example of a time when you have gone over and above the general expectations in order to make a customer happy. Be sure to acknowledge the customer service efforts that Company ABC puts forward.
1st Answer Example
"I go above and beyond with my customers by committing to my follow up calls with them. I have a very strong sense of organization and I always follow up when I say that I will. My customers appreciate my sense of responsibility and respect for their time."
2nd Answer Example
"I always have a smile on my face! Another way that I go above and beyond for my customers is by never saying 'no'. I will say 'let me check into that for you' or 'let me see what I can do' or 'I will certainly try to find that answer for you'. It's amazing how a positive spin on all communication can improve a customers' level of satisfaction."
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14. Are you experienced in warm and cold calling?
How to Answer
Not everyone likes to cold call, but it's still a very effective way of up-selling and ensuring that you are top of mind when it comes to customer purchases. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of follow up sales calls in the automotive industry.
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of experience in cold and warm calling. Many of my sales have come from great follow up habits. I will also call previous buyers to up-sell on our maintenance services as well as to ask for referrals. I find that it's a lucrative way to spend any of my downtime."
2nd Answer Example
"I have called on existing customers; however, I would benefit from additional training when it comes to warm, and cold calling."
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15. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or professor? How was it resolved?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you are respectful of your leaders, and while you do not always have to agree with your leader, that you communicate respectfully.
Share with the interviewer a time when you have disagreed with your boss or professor, but you did not argue or have conflict with that person.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that it's my job as a professional to adapt to all types of people, and respect leadership even when I disagree with decisions they make. My previous employer was very hung up on old-school sales techniques so I simply had to adapt while putting my own twist on the process, to make myself comfortable."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to work with some great people and have not experienced conflict with a boss in the past. If I were to experience conflict in the workplace, I would address the situation right away through conversation. It's never a good idea to let conflict simmer and I'm not afraid to have an uncomfortable conversation to sort a situation out."
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16. We are moving quickly into second interviews. What is your availability like over the next few days?
How to Answer
Good news! If they are asking for you availability in the next few days, you likely made it to the next round. Try to be as flexible as possible with your availability.
1st Answer Example
"I can make myself available at any time, with some notice. The most ideal times for me to interview are between 8-9 AM and 4-5 PM Monday through Friday."
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to make myself available at your earliest convenience. I am very interested in this role and will be flexible when it comes to interview times."
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17. How do you motivate others on your team?
How to Answer
You don't have to be a manager or a team leader in order to motivate others.
If you have worked in a leadership role, think of ways you set clear goals or helped individuals cultivate a new skill. Reflect on your experience and share some ways that you help others to keep up the good work!
1st Answer Example
"I believe that offering a listening ear or encouraging words from time to time can make a huge difference for your team. Being positive and showing up consistently can also make a difference, so I try to exercise these ideas every day."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to motivate others on my team by creating a fun and healthy competition. Most people that I know respond really well to that type of motivation. It could be in the form of a small sales contest or challenge. This week, I offered my team a $100 gift card for whomever could gain the most business through referrals."
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18. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employment. What were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume and it's best to be honest, and up front, about the reasons. Gaps are okay to have so long as there is a legitimate reason behind them. Also, show the interviewer that you did not remain dormant during that time. Talk about any courses you took, volunteer work you did, or any lucrative hobbies that filled your time.
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for 6 months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
2nd Answer Example
"I was laid off in December of 2016 and, due to the recession, found it difficult to land employment for the 8 months following that lay off. Luckily, I received a good severance package from my previous employer. I took the time to travel around east Asia, and I even learned a second language. It was time very well spent."
19. What would you do if you were made aware of a co-worker being dishonest or stealing from the company?
How to Answer
Companies want to know they are hiring loyal employees. Make sure that you illustrate in your answer that you would do the right thing and represent the company you are working for.
1st Answer Example
"Unfortunately, dishonest employees are everywhere and I certainly would not consider myself a 'whistle-blower' in the workplace. If I found that a co-worker was stealing, or doing anything to harm the company, I would approach them directly to ask what was going on. There is a good chance of the situation being a simple misunderstanding. If it wasn't a misunderstanding and the co-worker was being outright defiant with their damaging actions then I would bring it, in a professional manner, to the appropriate parties."
2nd Answer Example
"Dishonesty is unacceptable, in my opinion. If I was made aware of a co-worker being dishonest or stealing from the company, I would notify my supervisor immediately."
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20. How would you prefer to be compensated?
How to Answer
Are you looking for a compensation structure based primarily on salary, commission, or a blend of both? Discuss with the hiring manager how you would prefer to be compensated.
1st Answer Example
"I am currently compensated primarily on a base pay of $60,000 with the opportunity to earn a quarterly bonus based on the company's profits. I would like to be compensated in a similar way in my next position."
2nd Answer Example
"Could you share with me a bit about your compensation structure? Currently I receive a small monthly guarantee; however, the bulk of my earnings come from commissions."
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21. How competitive are you?
How to Answer
Being a competitive person is a great thing if you are appropriately competitive in the workplace. Assure the interviewer that you have a great competitive edge, when necessary, but are still able to balance that competition in a healthy way.
1st Answer Example
"I think that on a scale of 1-10, I would rate myself as a 7 when it comes to being competitive. I love a great competition in the workplace when it comes to sales goals and breaking through last years' numbers. I am not competitive to the point that it would hurt my team or colleagues."
2nd Answer Example
"I consider myself to be more internally competitive. I have high expectations of myself and will strive to do better than the day before."
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22. How do you organize your day?
How to Answer
Share some of the tools you have found helpful to stay on task and organized. If you keep a day planner or an organizer on your phone, explain how they have helped you keep track of assignments and tests. If you like to make to-do lists, this is a great example of tool that can help you stay organized and prioritize.
1st Answer Example
"I keep an updated Outlook calendar to keep track of work appointments, deadlines, and all of my outside activities. I am good at managing my time so that I complete projects on time and am prepared for customer appointments."
2nd Answer Example
"A few of the tools that I use during the day to stay organized include Google Calendar, Slack, and Freedcamp. These tools help me to stay on top of my schedule, and easily collaborate with my team."
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23. Why do you believe you will have success at this position with Company ABC?
How to Answer
Why are you the right fit for this particular position with Company ABC? This is a good time to highlight the skills you possess and show the interviewer that you are the best choice for the position.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I will be successful in this position because I am passionate about what your organization stands for. I can clearly see your vision and have already drafted some great ideas on how I can help you to get there."
2nd Answer Example
"My organizational skills will be a major asset to you and I also bring with me a strong track record of increasing sales and client base. These are just a couple of the reasons I feel that I'll be successful in this role with Company ABC."
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24. How can we motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are being noticed. In my current position we have a leader board and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition in me as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I am competitive by nature so the best way to motivate me on the job would be to give me a contest or challenging goal."
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25. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.
How to Answer
You have likely gained many great skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include skills that will potentially benefit Company ABC, if you are hired.
1st Answer Example
"In the past few years I was able to upgrade my education while still working full time. The biggest skill that I gained was my ability to multi-task as I worked the dual role of employee and student. I also have strong skills in a variety of Microsoft programs such as PowerPoint and Excel."
2nd Answer Example
"In my most recent position, the skills that I am most proud of acquiring would include my well-honed leadership skills, my scheduling abilities, and my cold calling skills."
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26. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work related procedures.
How to Answer
Have you ever taken the opportunity to present your employer with potential change? Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took initiative in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after my initiative was implemented and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment."
2nd Answer Example
"This year I asked my manager if we could look at some new options for parts vendors. We ended up finding a couple of vendors who were more competitive with their pricing, so we made the switch. I am estimating that the change saves us close to $1000 per week."
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27. Would you consider yourself a creative person?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creativity and how you have implemented that creativity in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself to be a creative individual. One example of this would be the telephone sales scripts that I crafted for our inside sales team. They were lively and effective, and sales increased by 23% in the first 90 days of implementation."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that creativity shows itself in many forms so, although I am not an artsy creative type, I do still consider myself creative. I come up with original ideas on a regular basis, and am a very strong creative writer."
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28. What experience do you have using team-based messaging applications?
How to Answer
There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the applications you are experienced in and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.
1st Answer Example
"I have used a variety of team based messaging applications. I am best versed in Brosix, AOL Instant Messenger, and Freedcamp. No matter which system you use I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous positions I have not used any team-based messaging applications; however, I am technically savvy and confident that I can pick up any program you need me to. Which team-based messaging application do you use at Company ABC?"