How to Answer: Have you ever been involved in writing, preparing, or training Standard Operating Procedures or an Emergency Response Plan?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Public Transit job interview.
6. Have you ever been involved in writing, preparing, or training Standard Operating Procedures or an Emergency Response Plan?
How to Answer
Standard Operating Procedures, often referred to as SOPs, are laid out instructions that assist employees in completing complex parts of their job. Think of SOPs as a manual of sorts. An SOP aims to maintain quality, consistency in work, increase communication, boost compliance, and improve safety.
An Emergency Response Plan includes the steps that employees need to take when an emergency occurs. This document can consist of accidents or even lockdown procedures.
If you are more seasoned in your career, you may have had some involvement in either writing, preparing, or training new employees on Standard Operating Procedures and Emergency Response Plans. If so, briefly discuss your participation and how confident you feel with these types of responsibilities.
If you are newer to your career, you may have seen your company's SOPs or Emergency Response Plan but have not had involvement in their creation. Show that you have an understanding of their importance and express your willingness to learn how to prepare and train others.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I train many new employees on our company's emergency response procedures and some operating procedures as well; mainly on workflow. My training is in the ISO-9000 format. It's important that every SOP come with clear instructions, checklists, and charts so that they are simple for everyone to understand. I am comfortable with leading these projects but also appreciate a high level of involvement with all stakeholders to ensure that the SOP is all-encompassing."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been given SOPs to follow and have read through my current company's Emergency Response Plan. I am eager and willing to become involved in the creation of these important documents as I grow in my career. I have strong writing skills, I am organized, and have that keen eye for detail required to write robust documents such as these."