30 Metals and Mining Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Metals and Mining 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. Company ABC seeks to hire those who are up to date on the industry. Our industry is a competitive one with policy changing frequently. How do you keep up with industry trends and policy changes?
How to Answer
The interviewer is seeking for proof that you have a genuine interest in their particular industry. When you have a real interest in a topic, you will spend time dedicating yourself to grow your knowledge base.
Discuss with the interviewer a couple of ways that you keep yourself updated on industry trends and policy changes. It's also a great idea to ask the interviewer about the ways they keep prefer to stay on top of industry topics. You never know what other resources are out there and you may learn something new!
1st Answer Example
"There are many great resources dedicated to the metals and mining industry. At the moment, my favorite resource is miningmagazine.com. I visit their website frequently and also subscribe to their blog. What is your favorite resource for industry related news?"
2nd Answer Example
"I subscribe to a variety of print, and online, publications such as Mines to Markets, Mining Global and Cobalt News. Could you share with me some of your favorite resources? I always like to learn about new industry resources."
2. In your opinion, why is our industry a fundamental one?
How to Answer
Employees who see value in their company, and industry, are going to be happier and stay longer. The interviewer is looking for your opinion on why the metals and mining industry is an important one. Show the interviewer that, if hired by Company ABC, you would have a sense of pride in what they do.
1st Answer Example
"I strongly believe that the metals and mining industry provides an excellent boost in the economy; especially in those regions and states where mining activity is concentrated. Minerals and metals are what make nearly everything we have so without this type of mining, many of the products we know and love would not exist."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe the biggest reason why mining is necessary is that minerals and metals can rarely be substituted for anything. They are vital to our everyday lives. If mining stopped, we would not have other resources for some of the most important things we use every day."
3. At Company ABC we understand that our industry can be a volatile one. In your opinion, what is the outlook for the metals and mining industry in the next year?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have a keen interest in the industry and that you are up to date on some of the challenges and wins that Company ABC may be facing. You do not need to give an incredibly long and drawn out answer but be sure to highlight a couple of interesting points.
Wrap up your response by asking the interviewer their personal opinion on the outlook for the industry. This question from you could start an insightful and helpful conversation
1st Answer Example
"I read in an article a short time ago that mining was one of 2016's best performing sectors despite a slow start to the year. Citi analysts are predicting another solid year. How do you feel the outlook will be for this industry in the years to come?"
2nd Answer Example
"Although the prices for many commodities have declined over the years, I feel that we will be bouncing back again very soon. According to the Financial Post, 2018 is going to be a solid year for the metals and mining industry."
4. At Company ABC we put safety first when it comes to our employees and the handling of our products. How important is safety to you?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are as concerned about safety as they are. In which ways do you put safety first? Talk about the importance of security in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"One of the reasons why Company ABC stands out to me as a potential employer, is your dedication to workplace safety. I feel that safety should be the number one consideration in this industry. It determines employee engagement, company profitability, and ensures a strong industry reputation."
2nd Answer Example
"Safety is of utmost importance to me! I take regular precautions in the workplace, and I continue to attend safety training while keeping my tickets and certifications valid."
5. At Company ABC we take every step possible to be a leader in our industry. In your opinion, who are our competitors and what sets us apart from them?
How to Answer
It is incredibly important to research the company before your interview. You should learn who the company's competitors are. Discuss your findings with the interviewer and be sure to speak highly of Company ABC while answering this question.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Company ABC and see that you truly are an industry leader in the metals and mining arena. From my research, I believe what sets you apart is your incredible dedication to safety, and to the environment."
2nd Answer Example
"From my understanding, your biggest competitors are companies A, B, and C. I believe that Company ABC is different because you put safety above all else. Your public safety records are impressive, and I am excited at the possibility to join such a responsible company."
6. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can think outside the box, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem.
Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues or even patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem.
Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
1st Answer Example
"When faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
2nd Answer Example
"If there's a complicated problem, I'll write out what I think the possible solutions would be, and make a note of what my gut tells me to do. Then, I will weigh those potential solutions against one another and list the complications that may arise as a result of each choice. Also, I am always open to input or suggestions from those with more experience than I and look to my mentors, their experience, and the training resources, as well as potentially talk the problem out with coworkers or my boss."
7. What do you know about corporate governance practices in the metals and mining industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to understand the depth of your experience and knowledge when it comes to rules of engagement in the metals and mining industry. Show the interviewer that you have exposure to corporate governance but avoid giving a long-winded answer. Briefly state the level of exposure you have had with each industry related company on your resume.
1st Answer Example
"Corporate rules and practices were governed heavily in my last three positions. In all three positions, our Board of Directors created Corporate Governance guidelines that strongly supported the integrity of our operations. I believe Corporate Governance practices always need to be in line with the stockholders' best interests. Corporate Governance should also provide oversight of the company's accounting and financial reporting processes."
2nd Answer Example
"As I am new to this industry, I do not have a vast amount of knowledge when it comes to corporate governance. With that said, I have started to study these, using government websites as a resource. If you have any suggestion for me on what to study, I am very open to suggestions."
8. Company ABC is committed to transparency, whether that means full disclosure to our board, the government, or audit committee. Do you consider yourself a transparent and honest individual?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are an honest individual who will respect the values and environment created at Company ABC. When a question like this is asked of you, it's a great idea to offer up your references as well.
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself honest, and quite a transparent individual. I believe it is always best to have your intentions and desires known. In turn, I appreciate my employer being honest with me. I have prepared some references for you, and I'm confident they will speak to my honest character as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I am told quite often that I am an honest and trustworthy individual, and you will be able to hear that directly from my supervisor when you call for a reference. I hold honesty and trustworthiness as fundamental virtues."
9. Social responsibility is important to us. In your opinion, what is the best environmental effort Company ABC has launched in the past 3 years?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have a keen interest in what they do at Company ABC and that you're up to date on their latest company news and efforts.
Visit the Company ABC website or Google the company name to see what you can find in regards to their latest environmental efforts. Keep your answer brief and complimentary. It's okay to ask the interviewer some questions on their environmental initiatives as well. This inquiry could be a great way to start a meaningful conversation.
1st Answer Example
"I like that Company ABC takes social and environmental responsibility so seriously. In my opinion, the best environmental effort that this organization has made in the last few years would be the mine land restoration program that you rejuvenated in 2015. Which environmental effort are you most proud of?"
2nd Answer Example
"Your organization has many great efforts focused on environmental sustainability. I would say that the most impressive efforts I have seen from your organization are the reduction of your energy and water consumption while maintaining a focus on minimizing land disturbance."
10. Every step counts for a successful project so at Company ABC we prefer to hire those who come highly trained. Do you have any post-secondary education related to project management or environmental affairs?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you come equipped with the knowledge level appropriate for this position. If you do not have a post-secondary education, then be sure to make a statement regarding your ability to perform the tasks required of you for this role with Company ABC.
If you have project management or environmental related post-secondary education: "I am PMP Certified from the Project Management Institute. In addition to this certification, I also possess a degree in Business Management from Strayer University. These education related successes have helped me to learn more about multitasking during complex projects, anticipate product needs, and put safety at the forefront of a project."
1st Answer Example
"I am PMP Certified from the Project Management Institute. In addition to this certification, I also possess a degree in Business Management from Strayer University. These education related successes have helped me to learn more about multitasking during complex projects, anticipate product needs, and put safety at the forefront of a project."
2nd Answer Example
If you do not have project management or environmental related post-secondary education: "My formal education related to environmental affairs is limited; however, I bring 15 solid years' experience in the industry. My knowledge level is healthy, and I am confident in my ability to surpass your expectations."
11. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like recognition in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not like public recognition all that much as I prefer to do my job well, regardless of being recognized. When I have a major achievement, I would prefer a phone call from my supervisor saying a good job. Also, I like to be awarded additional responsibilities."
12. How has your current job changed over the years?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know more about your career progression. Additional responsibilities, promotions, and changes in the title all indicate that you were competent and successful in your role.
Take some time to highlight any successes for the interviewer. This question gives you an opportunity to go more in-depth about how your role has evolved. If nothing has changed much over the past couple of years in your position, focus on what you have learned. Are you better at managing teams now that you have gone from supervising one to five people? Are you exceptionally good with problem-solving now that you've learned to troubleshoot IT related problems? Talk about how the changes in your job have taught you new skills and helped you develop the ones you already have.
1st Answer Example
"When I initially started my job four years ago I was a junior level operator. Today, I am responsible for leading a team of 8 operators. My role does not look the same at all, and I am thankful for the growth opportunity that my current company has offered me. In addition to the change in leadership responsibilities, I have also enjoyed two major promotions. I attribute this to hard work and dedication."
2nd Answer Example
"Change is a constant for me in my current company. I am given new responsibilities quite regularly which include training new employees, hosting lunch and learns, and writing a new policy. The pace of growth is complementary to my career goals."
13. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is imperative that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is indeed a virtue but can be challenging to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you possess the ability to keep your cool in challenging conditions.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10 and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
2nd Answer Example
"I was once working with a group that could not quite get along, and it tested my patience a bit because it prevented us from staying on track and focusing on the goals. I went above and beyond in helping the group get along by scheduling lunches as a team and helping to mediate situations that needed it."
14. We are looking for a long term fit at Company ABC. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but does assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for their position.
1st Answer Example
"Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
2nd Answer Example
"In 5 years I would like to be seen as an authority in our industry. I would like to be well-connected and trusted when it comes to my work here."
15. Company ABC likes to bring out the best in our employees. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style at Company ABC, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.
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 perform best in an independent and autonomous environment. Can you describe the management style here?"
2nd Answer Example
"I work best with managers who are patient, like to teach and are clear communicators. Because I am newer to my career, I do hope to work for a manager who can mentor me."
16. Strong communication skills are important for any role with Company ABC. Rate your communication skills from 1-10.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Discuss with the interviewer why you chose that particular rating for yourself. Be sure to highlight that your exceptional communication skills will make you a success in this role with Company ABC!
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 current 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. I look forward to bringing my strong communication skills to Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an eight because I value communication but, just like most people, I have things to learn. Some ways that I ensure clear communication are by utilizing multiple methods of delivering messages, and I give ample time for questions before implementing changes."
17. Considering your background is in an industry different from Company ABC, what skills and characteristics do you have that qualify you for this industry?
How to Answer
There are many ways that you can be a fit for a position, even though you do not come with direct industry experience. Think about the variety of skills that you have and how those can benefit Company ABC, despite the industry background you may have. These are your transferable skills, and they can include sales abilities, customer service experience, and software capabilities.
1st Answer Example
"Although my background is not in the metals and mining industry, I have worked with many clients who have been in your industry. I bring excellent transferable skills that qualify me for this position. These skills include my advanced abilities in Excel, my outstanding cold-calling abilities as well as my proven background in team leadership."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some transferable skills that could qualify you to work in the metals and mining industry:
- Conflict Resolution
- Time Management
- Project Management
- Hiring and Onboarding
- Supervising Others
- Presentation Giving
- Advising
18. We believe in giving Company ABC employees honest, open, and regular feedback. What feedback did you receive at your last job?
How to Answer
Every manager has a different approach to giving feedback. Some prefer to save it for the performance review while others dish it out on the regular. Your response to feedback is much more important than the input itself. Even if it was negative, if you can take it as constructive criticism, you can improve yourself and your skills.
1st Answer Example
"My previous manager told me that I was spending too much time on the details of a project. I realized that I could be such a perfectionist that I lose track of time and hyper-focus on things that aren't that important. I taught myself to prioritize better so that my results are successful on projects, both large and small."
2nd Answer Example
"I regularly received feedback from my supervisor relating to areas of customer satisfaction. For the most part, the feedback was always very positive. On the odd occasion, I was asked to improve my documentation which I worked very hard to do."
19. How often do you discuss work with your colleagues in order to think up new systems and styles of working?
How to Answer
Do you use your creative mind with your colleagues to discuss ideas and systems in the workplace? Talk to the interviewer about how you have used creative thinking in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I have a policy with my team that if they have an innovative and helpful idea they can bring it to me at any time. If my team members' idea or system is something that I think could work, we then create a plan together to present it to our head office. This policy has generated some compelling ideas in our office over the past three years including a work-share program and some health and safety initiatives."
2nd Answer Example
"I think it is important to discuss work with colleagues in a collaborative nature to encourage all types of ideas to come forth. Often, when people put their heads together, they will create something better than something one individual could have done alone."
20. Tell me about the most challenging problem you have encountered in your professional career.
How to Answer
Everyone has had their share of challenges in their career. The interviewer knows that you are not perfect; however, they need to know that you can professionally overcome work-related roadblocks.
Maybe you had a significant project that almost went sideways. Perhaps you had a conflict in the workplace that you could have handled more professionally. Explain your approach to resolving the issue and be sure to highlight the steps you took to reach that resolution.
1st Answer Example
"The most challenging problem I have encountered in my professional career was with my most recent employer. I had an incredibly important project that made up the majority of my annual budget. The client was challenging to work with as he was rarely available for comment, due to extensive international travel. I needed this deal to work out so, for the 6-month span of the project, I made my work hours reflect his time zone. This allowed us to communicate via Skype on a daily basis. This meant a fair share of late night and early morning calls for me! It was a sacrifice; however, I would do it again. I understand that sacrifices need to be made for successful outcomes to happen."
2nd Answer Example
"The most challenging problem that I encountered in my career was when my former company experienced a major merger. It was a lot to adjust to but, after some time, I was able to get a good pace again."
21. What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about the types of decisions you are accustomed to making in the workplace. The way you answer this questions will give them a good idea of your level of experience, seniority, and ability to handle the decision-making requirements in this possible position.
If the job you are interviewing for requires you to be decisive and quick on your feet, you will need to be able to provide examples of how you have done these things in the past. If you worked in tech support, you faced problems that you needed to find solutions for on a regular basis. If you worked as a sales rep, you might have been required to know how to negotiate and make decisions on prices and benefits you can give your customers.
You may have faced with decisions that became so routine you didn't think twice! Refer to these types of decisions and be sure to highlight how these types of decisions have prepared you for a role like this one.
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 regularly made decisions regarding pricing and discounts for customers. I had a standard set of criteria that I created, and I tried to let that guide me for consistency."
22. Integrity is a key value at Company ABC. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
Integrity is best displayed through honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you show your integrity in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit on a daily basis. There was never a discrepancy, in the four years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable employee."
2nd Answer Example
"I show great integrity in all that I do. It's important in this industry, to be honest, and allow people to know what to expect from you. Being a person of integrity is very important to me."
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 with Company ABC.
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
"I define success by what we achieve as a team. The project, as a whole, needs to deliver on expectations before I consider the job a success."
24. Give me an example of a time when your communication style helped you to be a more effective leader.
How to Answer
Everyone has their style of communication. Whatever your style, show the interviewer that it is useful. Your response should demonstrate your ability to articulate constructive criticism, encourage your team, or relay policy changes in a way that makes them exciting!
1st Answer Example
"I gave my employee some negative feedback because he appeared to be slacking off on the job. Rather than telling him, I thought he was lazy; I said, 'I've noticed that it's been taking longer for you to turn in those reports. What's going on? Is there anything I can do?' I always start by asking questions instead of making accusations. He was very appreciative and told me how he was struggling with motivation. I asked him what would motivate him and we were able to find a solution that worked for both of us."
2nd Answer Example
"I love to play to other's strengths. Everyone communicates differently, so I am sure always to send written as well as give verbal communication. Usually, that looks like a small, informal huddle outlining our topic or concern and I follow that up with a quick email detailing the discussion. This way the team hears and reads all expectations. Also, it allows for those who are vocal to share in a group setting as well as allows for the quieter few to ask their questions in the privacy of an email."
25. When have you made a mistake delegating tasks to your team members?
How to Answer
Being able to delegate to your team correctly is a critical part of successful management. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have appointed in error. Be sure to discuss how you repaired the mistake.
1st Answer Example
"Earlier in my career I would delegate tasks at random, thinking that everyone had the skills to complete any company-related task. I found that these employees would procrastinate on these tasks if they seemed overwhelming or if they did not understand them. After a bit of time, and some learning, I began to delegate based on personality type and skill-set. This method proved to be much more effective, and I follow this delegation style to this day."
2nd Answer Example
"I am usually cautious when delegating tasks because putting the wrong person in the wrong function can be a dangerous, and expensive, mistake. A few years ago I put an employee on the incorrect piece of machinery, thinking that he was certified in operating that bit of equipment. I am now sure to double check credentials before delegating."
26. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you or a saying that you grew up with that resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"I am not sure that I have a personal mission statement; however, my mission is to always treat people with respect and kindness. Kindness will always win, and people appreciate the gesture."
27. What steps do you take when you have to make an immediate decision and you do not feel you have all the relevant or necessary information?
How to Answer
Knowing how to look for the right information and where to look when the clock is ticking is what makes you a problem solver! Walk the interviewer through your process of seeking out the relevant information you need to make that quick decision. Explain the steps to give the interviewer a clear picture of your thought process.
1st Answer Example
"I have a pretty routine process I follow to make quick decisions. I weigh the pros and cons and come up with a solution that makes the most sense. Next, I ask the opinion of someone I trust to see what they think. Even though I trust my decision-making ability, I still think it's important to get a second opinion when it comes to situations involving money or if it could make a significant impact on others."
2nd Answer Example
"I am an organized individual, so I do have a checklist that I follow for all policy related decisions and changes. If I do not have all necessary information, I can usually find it in our company resource database."
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 an opportunity for growth."
29. If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?
How to Answer
Show your confidence to your interviewer by explaining your willingness to be part of the team and not being afraid to pick up the slack when needed, but make sure you don't allow someone to take advantage of you.
1st Answer Example
"I will always choose to be a team player. If I had a co-worker call in sick, I would take over what I could. The only time I would draw the line would be if I felt I was being taken advantage of for some reason. For example, if they were purposefully being inefficient and expecting me to pick up the slack. For the sake of the company, I am always willing to go above and beyond the expectations."
2nd Answer Example
"Teamwork is important to me, and I am always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty for the good of the organization for which I work. So long as I am not being taken advantage of, then I will happily step in to assist."
30. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if they are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far.
1st Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes. I am eager to return to work and am actively seeking my next opportunity."