30 Trucking Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Trucking 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. Talk to me about your geographical knowledge, rating yourself from 1-10.
How to Answer
Company ABC needs to know that you are confident in your knowledge of the areas to which they provide service. Working in the trucking industry, it's essential that you have strong geographical knowledge. This knowledge does not mean that you have to know everything about the US, Canada, and Mexico! It does mean that you have excellent recall skills and the ability to learn quickly. Company ABC may offer geographic testing, so be sure to offer your participation if that's the case.
1st Answer Example
"I would rate my geographical knowledge a 7.5 out of 10. There is room for me to learn more. Thankfully, I have a photogenic memory and can recall locations and facts very quickly once I have briefly studied the content."
2nd Answer Example
"I consider myself advanced and a 9/10 when it comes to my knowledge of this region and our surrounding states. There are areas of the US, Canada, and Mexico that I am not familiar with; however, I am a quick study and will begin brushing up my skills right away."
2. Name for me three of the transportation services offered at Company ABC.
How to Answer
The hiring authority at Company ABC wants to see that you have taken the time to get to know their business and exactly what they offer. Do your research on the company website and be prepared to talk about some of the services that stand out the most to you.
1st Answer Example
"I see that Company ABC offers a plethora of services ranging from intermodal and dedicated trucking to brokerage and cross-border freight services. My specialty is in cross-border services, which includes shipping to Mexico and Canada."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate the range of services offered at Company ABC including your dedicated fleet services which are customized to optimize your clients' shipping needs. The other service that stood out to me includes your brokerage services. It's great that your clients are assigned a single point of contact for their business needs. The third service that stood out to me the most is intermodal freight shipping. Your offering is broad from transcontinental to express services."
3. How is our ever-changing economy impacting the trucking industry?
How to Answer
According to the American Trucking Association, we move 70% of goods by road. This statistic means that trucking is an incredibly important industry for the economy. This importance also means that our economic standing can significantly impact the health of the trucking industry. Show the interviewer that you have a finger on the pulse of what is happening in your industry.
1st Answer Example
"I notice the biggest difference in the trucking industry when we are in a tight economy. With a slow economy comes less demand for shipped goods considered luxuries such as cars and garments. Consumers spend less money, which translates to fewer goods shipped and fewer loads run."
2nd Answer Example
"From what I know, a slow economy means that people are consuming less under nearly every category. This slow-down of consumption means there is less to ship out. For this reason, shippers will try to control costs by filling trucks with more than usual and then sending them out less frequently. I have seen shippers double up on a load, to save on costs."
4. We offer competitive wages and a great compensation plan. What is most important to you, when considering a job offer?
How to Answer
Every person interprets the value in a compensation package differently than the next. For this reason, its essential that Company ABC understands what a tempting job offer would look like before giving you one. Take some time to think about what is important to you when considering a job offer. Perhaps it's excellent health benefits, work-life balance, company culture, career growth, or continued education opportunities. Whatever your answer be sure to provide the interviewer with a clear idea of what you need to gain from your next employment opportunity.
1st Answer Example
"I put the most value on growth opportunities. In my current role, there are rarely opportunities for promotion because we are a small, family-owned organization. I am eager to know how Company ABC helps build up its employees for promotion and growth."
2nd Answer Example
"I am most interested in joining a company that pays fair wages and has generous health benefits. I have children, which means that support for unexpected medical expenses is important to me. Could you share with me a bit about the health benefits provided by Company ABC?"
5. Carriers and shippers face many regulatory changes. How do you remain up to date on capacity, compliance, and safety standards?
How to Answer
There are many rules and regulations to follow in the trucking industry. The interviewer at Company ABC wants to be sure that you are familiar with the reputable and valuable resources available to you. Show the interviewer that you remain up to date when it comes to safety and compliance in the trucking industry. Refer to coursework that you take, company newsletters to which you subscribe, articles that you enjoy reading, or even Google news alerts related to your job function.
1st Answer Example
"I subscribe to alerts from the US Department of Transportation as well the FMCSA. I also like to listen to podcasts, and there are a few that are very helpful when it comes to our industry. These include the 'Under the Hood' show and 'Drivers' Talk Radio' podcast."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently discovered that your company has a very in-depth and helpful quarterly market report as well as regular blog posts to which I now subscribe. When it comes to being up to date on safety standards, I follow the DOT very closely as well as other regulatory arms in transportation."
6. Do you have experience collaborating with drivers, dispatchers, and other crew?
How to Answer
Cross-functional or cross-departmental skills are essential when you're working in an industry like trucking because there are many moving parts to every project. Clear communication is key to a successful day, and that begins with ensuring you are on the same page as your co-workers, regardless of their job title or function.
If you have experience collaborating with other departments and job functions such as dispatch, loading and unloading crews, schedulers, or even human resources, discuss that experience.
If you are new to the trucking industry, or your career, with limited cross-functional experience, you can discuss any volunteer work or experience from your post-secondary education.
1st Answer Example
"For the past five years, I have worked in the trucking, transport, and logistics industry collaborating with a variety of people and departments. On any given day, I speak with dispatch, warehouse crew, clients, and schedulers. I am solid with documentation, which helps our teams' communication run smoothly."
2nd Answer Example
"The bulk of my cross-departmental work comes from a couple of large group projects while obtaining my associate's degree in transportation and infrastructure. I completed my internship at ABC Trucking, which allowed me to learn how drivers collaborate with other departments, such as dispatch and crew. I look forward to furthering my exposure to cross-functional collaboration when I join Company ABC."
7. In this role with Company ABC you will be responsible for the safe and efficient delivery of customer freight. How will you contribute to our reputation for safety and excellence?
How to Answer
In the trucking industry, nothing is more important than safety and pride in work. Before your interview, take some time to learn about the mission statement and values of Company ABC. Through their website and other internet searches, you will be able to get a sense of their values, as well as the type of workplace culture they are creating. Are their core values a match to your own? Talk to the interviewer about how your skills and characteristics will contribute to the goals of Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"Safe and on-time delivery is the running theme that I found when researching Company ABC. I appreciate your never-ending commitment to safety and professionalism. I will invest time in learning your equipment and processes, learning how to best communicate with my supervisors and colleagues, and getting to know the customers and industries that you serve."
2nd Answer Example
"I am committed to opportunities for development and growth, which is a core value at Company ABC. I am looking forward to carving out a career in the trucking industry built on safety and excellence. I will contribute to your company goals by abiding by your policies, leading by example, and being an encouraging team member to my colleagues."
8. How familiar are you with the US Department of Transportation and the part they play with Company ABC daily operations?
How to Answer
The US Department of Transportation (USDOT or just DOT) was established in 1966. DOT focus' on regulating all types of transportation, including trucking, rail transport, aviation, public transit, and more. Their primary mission is to enable the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of people and goods by all types of transportation.
If hired by Company ABC you will need to be familiar with the US Department of Transportation and how to comply with their regulations, as they relate to your specific job title. Briefly describe what you know the DOT to be, and how they will impact your daily work operations.
1st Answer Example
"The US Department of Transportation works to limit safety risks in a variety of transport industries. I believe their work impacts every aspect of my job as a (insert your job description). The DOT's focus includes hazard identification, and risk analysis, which greatly reduces accidents and the consequences of hazardous events should they occur."
2nd Answer Example
"The DOT is responsible for the regulation of transport through a variety of applications, including trucking. I believe that as a (insert your job description) the DOT will have a significant impact on the safety practices of my job in areas such as hazardous materials, operating practices, and control of all driver certifications."
9. Do you have experience working on an on-call basis? Are you able to meet our scheduling needs?
How to Answer
If you currently hold a job that requires you to work on-call, then this question should be simple to address. You can display your willingness by discussing what you already do in your current role.
If you do not have experience being on-call, be sure that you fully understand what this entails, before you agree to meet the scheduling needs of Company ABC. You want to be sure that expectations are very clear from the start. Overall, the interviewer needs to see that you can comply with the schedule, meeting the needs of Company ABC and filling the expectations of this role.
1st Answer Example
"At the moment, my work schedule is primarily evenings and weekends. I understand that this role with Company ABC requires me to be on call for half of the month. I am willing to be a team player and work whichever hours you require. Do you have a sample schedule that you could share with me?"
2nd Answer Example
"I brought a sample schedule with me today to show you the hours that I currently work. At the moment, I work ten days on and ten days off. Although being on-call is what I am accustomed to, I would like to understand better the needs at Company ABC before committing to an on-call schedule."
10. Company ABC conducts background checks, drug, and alcohol testing. Are you able to meet these requirements?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you will be able to pass any background checks; including criminal, drugs, and sometimes even alcohol. Any business in the trucking industry has to be especially careful about safety, which includes avoiding any instances related to impaired driving. If you are applying for a driver role, you must have a clean criminal record, allowing you to cross borders without issue.
Keep your answer straightforward. If you know that you will pass any background checks with flying colors, state that you will comply with anything they need. If you may have a discrepancy, you should disclose this right away.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to take any background checks required to work for Company ABC. I have a clean criminal background, good credit, and am free of all illegal drugs. I brought a recent police check with me today if you would like to take a copy for my candidate file."
2nd Answer Example
"I am prepared to take any background testing required by Company ABC. My history complies with any federal regulations required to work in this industry. Rest assured, there will be no surprises during my background checks."
11. Do you have experience in the movement of hazardous material, restricted, or time-sensitive shipments?
How to Answer
Company ABC offers an extensive menu of services to clients, including the transportation of hazardous materials, dangerous goods, and time-sensitive deliveries. These jobs could include the shipping of gasoline, chemicals, and flammable materials.
Outline your experience when it comes to moving sensitive shipments. Show your level of comfort and expertise by discussing what you have transferred and how often. Be sure to highlight your record of safety!
1st Answer Example
"I have moved dangerous shipments regularly for the past eight years. This transportation experience includes trucks of gasoline and highly flammable goods. I am TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) certified and have had zero accidents throughout my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I earned my TDG certification this past month and am ready for further training on hazardous, restricted, and time-sensitive shipments. I trust that Company ABC has the best training in the industry and I look forward to learning more."
12. Trucking and transport require the ability to react quickly and professionally. How do you keep your cool in the face of change?
How to Answer
No two days are the same in the trucking and transport industry! The interviewer needs to see that you have the insight and capability required to pivot on projects when required.
Show the interviewer your ability to remain calm and collected in the face of last-minute changes. Perhaps you create a variety of potential scenarios and solutions ahead of time. Maybe you read a lot on troubleshooting, making you a confident problem-solver. Whichever way you approach changing situations, show the interviewer that you are flexible and adaptable.
1st Answer Example
"In trucking, transport, and logistics, no situation is guaranteed to be successful. Even a very smooth trip can have a sudden roadblock where the team has to collaborate to shift and pivot. I always create alternate scenarios and plans because I know that situations change without warning. In these situations, I give recommendations and lead the team with authority. I take suggestions, and we work through a solution together, one step at a time."
2nd Answer Example
"Trucking requires a great amount of adaptability every day. Just last week we had a job that required the transport of dangerous goods. Our customer attempted to change the deadline partway through the run. We were unable to pivot since we carefully planned our route for roads that accepted dangerous goods transport. We explained the situation to the client and pushed the project as much as we could while keeping safety first. It can be a challenge to find a happy medium between great client service and maintaining safety and good sense. I expect these situations in the trucking industry, so I am always prepared to go with the flow and make changes to my day."
13. Smooth communication is vital to the success of Company ABC. How do you ensure smooth workplace communication?
How to Answer
Company ABC needs to hire leaders who communicate smoothly every step of the way. The interviewer wants to see that you lead by example when it comes to communication efforts on the job, even when you are not in a formal leadership position. In the trucking industry, breakdown of communication can be incredibly costly when it comes to on-time deliverables, Company ABC reputation, and the safety of others. Discuss how you do your part to ensure smooth workplace communication.
1st Answer Example
"I ensure smooth workplace communication by asking questions or seeking clarification without hesitation. I do not pretend to have an answer to make a good impression. When it's safe to ask questions or ask for clarification, every aspect of a business can improve; including customer services, timeliness, deadlines, and even safety."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that most problems stem from miscommunication. I ensure smooth workplace communication by asking for clarification when I need it and double-checking that I understand the instructions given to me. Before I proceed with a task, I walk myself through the steps in my head, anticipate any potential hiccups, and prepare a 'plan B' just in case 'plan A' doesn't go as smoothly as I hoped."
14. The trucking and transport industry can be stressful and high-stakes. How do you deal under extreme stress?
How to Answer
The trucking industry can be high-stakes, especially when you have time-sensitive deliveries or shipments that contain dangerous goods or hazardous materials.
Stressful scenarios happen every day at Company ABC and the hiring authority needs to know that you can keep your cool no matter the challenges you face. Think about a time when you dealt with an extremely stressful situation, and give this real-life example to the interviewer in the form of a brief story.
1st Answer Example
"The pressure of time and accuracy is incredibly high within the trucking industry. I spent three years working for a trucking and logistics company that specialized in the transportation of refrigerated pharmaceutical and biotechnology supplies. The pressure, knowing that each truck was potentially worth millions of time and temperature-sensitive items, was like nothing I have ever experienced. To keep my stress levels to a minimum, I focused on timing and made sure our team exercised excellent communication. When communication is clear, it's much harder for things to go awry."
2nd Answer Example
"I deal quite well under extreme stress. Perhaps this is due to the years that I spent performing in highly competitive sports environments. Between the pressure to physically perform and the pressure to remain top of my class in university, I have developed a strong resistance to stress."
15. Company ABC seeks out employees who work hard, and show up for their team. What does having a strong work ethic mean to you?
How to Answer
Using similar wording to that of Company ABC, take the time to explain to the interviewer what it means to bring a strong work ethic to everything that you do. When you use specific buzzwords that Company ABC can relate to, you are showing the interviewer that you value the same ethics and that your work values align nicely. Try to avoid the typical 'I work hard and show up on time' answer and dig a bit deeper into what makes you determined and driven, accountable, and dependable.
1st Answer Example
"After reading through the Company ABC website, and your job description, I believe that you seek employees that understand their team relies on them. I am truthful, and I go the extra mile for my team. I look forward to coming to work every day and making a difference for your team and organization."
2nd Answer Example
"I describe my work ethic as 'old-school,' where I am early for every shift, honest with people, interested in learning new skills, and I consistently show up when needed. You are welcome to speak to my references in regards to my work ethic, as they will confirm the same. I am proud of the great work that I deliver."
16. How extensive is the fleet at Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much research you have performed on Company ABC before attending your interview. You can find the information that you need from a simple online search, or through the company website. Discuss what you have learned from your research. Show the interviewer that you are engaged and interested in what Company ABC is accomplishing.
1st Answer Example
"From my research, I understand that you are the country's third-largest full truckload organization. Your fleet is extensive with nearly 80,000 trucks and 20,000 employees. You offer premium logistics services throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. I am eager to join your growing organization."
2nd Answer Example
"Your fleet is the most extensive in the country. I researched your organization before coming here today and see that your fleet includes around 90,000 trailers and 30,000 employees. Because of your extensive fleet and talented teams, you can serve a wide range of customers in a broad array of industries, including automotive, agriculture, and retail."
17. What is the FMCSA and its primary purpose?
How to Answer
The FMCSA is short for The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The FMCSA is an agency within the United States Department of Transportation. The primary purpose of the FMCSA is to regulate the trucking industry. This regulating includes reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. Talk to the interviewer about what you know about the FMCSA and any experience you have with the administration.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in the transportation industry for the past twelve years, and I am very familiar with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. FMCSA plays a critical role in road safety. I know that the FMCSA came to be in early 2000. Since its introduction, the administration has made a very positive difference in the lives of drivers, carriers, and the public in general."
2nd Answer Example
"A separate administration within the US Department of Transportation, the FMCSA is short for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This administration, introduced in 2000, maintains a focus on reducing fatalities, injuries, and incidents involving large trucks."
18. Are you prepared for substantial amounts of travel?
How to Answer
Depending on the role you are applying for, there may be travel required in this position. Be honest in your answer, discussing any roadblocks you may encounter when it comes to traveling for work. If you are unable to travel on particular days, for instance, be specific about those restrictions.
1st Answer Example
"As a trucking professional, overnight travel is nothing new to me. I currently travel for about fifteen nights per month. Do you have a travel schedule set for this role? I would love to have a full understanding of the expectations at Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not traveled overnight for work, I have put in a lot of miles on a 9 to 5 basis. I desire to be home with my family as much as possible but will also be a team player if overnight travel is required now and then."
19. Tell me about your post-secondary education and how it applies to the trucking industry. Are you interested in expanding your schooling, or gaining further certifications?
How to Answer
Company ABC wants to know if you have an interest in investing in your industry related knowledge. Depending on the position requirements, you may need to have a related post-secondary degree. If this is the case, take a couple of minutes to bring your education to life. Talk about the coursework that you took, and how it will benefit you in this role. Of course, we never stop learning! It's also vital that you show the interviewer your interest in continuing your education as your career progresses.
1st Answer Example
"I love to learn, and am always seeking out opportunities to strengthen my knowledge in the trucking industry. I enjoy both formal and informal learning opportunities. In addition to my Bachelor's Degree in Business with a major in Communications, I learn through reading, listening to podcasts, and taking online certifications through platforms such as Lynda. Most recently, I gained certification in Logistics and Supply Chain."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a keen interest in continued education; formal or informal. This year I plan to attend seminars, conferences and take advantage of some online learning opportunities. As far as my existing education, I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Transportation and Logistics Technology. My coursework included topics such as distribution channels, consumer and industrial sales, global trade, logistics technology, and transportation law."
20. Talk to me about a serious conflict on your team. How did you help to resolve the conflict?
How to Answer
Conflict can be inevitable in the trucking industry as you face situations that change all the time, with a wide range of personalities and high-stakes projects. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were successful working with people that worked differently from you. Walk the hiring authority through the situation, what you did, and what the resolution was. Be sure to highlight how you skillfully handled these conflict issues.
1st Answer Example
"My previous trucking company went through a merger last year, and the amount of tension amongst the team was quite extreme. People did not know if they were going to lose their jobs, o if their routes were going to be changed, hours cut, and more. Everyone was sharp with each other, but I chose to take the kindness route. I was a friendly face through it all and kept a positive outlook. I know that I did my part to alleviate a lot of the negativity."
2nd Answer Example
"Two of my team members were in a feud over a process that they were both misinterpreting. Normally, I do not get involved in smaller conflicts, as I believe that most grown adults can iron things out without mediation. This event was different. I called a meeting between the three of us and let them know they were both incorrect. They were a bit embarrassed about the whole event and allowed me to re-train them in the process, the correct way."
21. What were you doing during the gaps in employment that I see on your resume?
How to Answer
If you have gaps in your resume, be prepared to have a clear answer on what you were doing during those times. There is no need to go into extreme detail on what was keeping you busy. The main point of this question is for the interviewer to see if you are the go-getter type who sticks with their job loyally rather than someone who quits and moves on the moment things become hard.
1st Answer Example
"The gap in employment that you see from 2017-2018 was my parental leave. I had another three-month absence while caring for an ailing family member. I enjoy working, so any break in employment has been due to circumstances out of my control."
2nd Answer Example
"Much of my employment history includes temporary or seasonal work. This type of work has allowed me to experience a variety of roles within many companies; however, I am now ready to sew seeds in a full time, permanent opportunity."
22. When have you discovered a problem at work, and went above and beyond to repair the issue?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are the type of person to take a situation and repair it, rather than leaving it for the next person. Show Company ABC that you can add genuine value to their company by going above and beyond the minimum expectations. Your example could include a time you worked long hours and made sacrifices to overcome a challenging problem. Discuss the positive impact and the significance of your solution.
1st Answer Example
"When I was working dispatch, I noticed that there were some systems that were out of date. So, rather than involving my supervisor, I took it upon myself to complete the updates which required some technical know-how. It took about seven days of staying late for work, but it was worth the hard work when I saw the improvement in accuracy, moving forward."
2nd Answer Example
"During our busiest delivery season, I noticed that one of our primary spreadsheets was not formulated properly. I am not an expert with Excel; however, with everyone being in peak stress mode - I decided it was something I could learn on my own. I watched a few online tutorials and ended up resolving the issue without the need to involve the rest of the team."
23. Tell me about your least favorite personal trait, and what are you doing to improve yourself.
How to Answer
This question is another way of asking about your greatest weakness. If you had to pick one trait that you would tweak or change, what would it be? Mention one specific character trait and then focus on what you are doing to improve in this area. Avoid mentioning a habit so extreme that it would disqualify you for the position. Some common personality traits that people often work on improving include:
- Being a 'know-it-all.'
- Rudeness or arrogance
- Dominating conversations
- Moodiness or being temperamental
1st Answer Example
"I will bring a lot of positives to Company ABC but, of course, I have traits that I am always working to improve. In a recent performance review, my boss said that I am sometimes brief when giving instructions. I was training a temp and missed some steps because I assumed she already knew what to do. I am consciously trying to be more thorough in situations like that."
2nd Answer Example
"I can turn to humor at inappropriate times. It's a quirk that I have been working on improving. This situation does not happen in a professional setting as much as it does in my personal life."
24. What timeline do you feel is appropriate when responding to customers and other stakeholders?
How to Answer
Company ABC is all about delivering exceptional service. The interviewer would like to know what you interpret as a fast turnaround when it comes to responding to your customers. You should take note of how quickly your messages are returned, by this organization, if you are a past customer. You can even refer to your experience as a candidate!
1st Answer Example
"Trucking, transportation, logistics, and shipping are all incredibly fast-moving. For that reason, my clients are never left waiting for a response for more than an hour. What is your expected timeline here at Company ABC?"
2nd Answer Example
"My customers often need speedy responses. Between myself and my team lead, we ensure that all inquiries are responded to before we wrap up for the day. We return most customer inquiries within 3 hours. Could you share with me the expectations set by Company ABC"
25. What are your favorite, and least favorite, tasks in your current job?
How to Answer
You will want to deliver your answer positively, even when discussing what your least favorite tasks are in your current job. It's important to remember that the way you respond sets a vibe for your interview.
When it comes to discussing your least favorite aspect of your job, you want to avoid complaining. Do so by describing it as a challenge that you are learning to face head-on. Take this question as an opportunity to shine when it comes to your ability to overcome challenges and dislikes. When discussing favorite aspects of your job, focus on elements that you will be doing in this new role with Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"My least favorite aspect of my current job is my inability to work around changing regulations. At times, I can deliver the most exceptional customer service, but I find myself blocked by a rule or policy that I cannot control. To combat this, I continually research and stay ahead of changes in the trucking industry. This research helps me to see potential roadblocks before they become problems. My favorite aspect hands down are my customers. I love helping them get their shipments out on time and navigate the confusing world of cross-border delivery. "
2nd Answer Example
"My least favorite part of this position is sharing leadership responsibilities and duties with another assistant manager. I'm eager for the chance to take the lead on my own. That said, on the flip side, I have learned so much by sharing these duties. I have learned to work cooperatively and efficiently with others. This collaborative nature is my favorite thing about my work."
26. Company ABC seeks out the most honest employees. Have you ever kept the remainder of an expense allotted to you?
How to Answer
Honesty is a critical characteristic that Company ABC will look for in an employee, no matter their job function. The interviewer would like to know if you have ever falsified an expense report or kept funds not meant for you. Assure the interviewer that you will always be honest with your expense reports and any other aspect of your job that requires trust.
1st Answer Example
"I believe it would be unethical to keep any expense not allocated to me. I am keenly accurate with my expenses, records, receipts, and payments. If there is an overpayment, I will credit the expense report, and include the backup, on the next expense request."
2nd Answer Example
"I have never been in a position where I had an expense account, but even so, I would never keep the remainder for myself since that would be theft. I take pride in my honesty and integrity."
27. Tell me why you are leaving your current job.
How to Answer
This question is straightforward, but it tends to trip up a lot of job seekers. Have a rehearsed and honest statement prepared for every position on your resume. 'The role was no longer a fit' is an answer that will not go over well with most interviewers. Neither is a vague reply like, 'There was no room to grow.' Give a specific reason without being negative or speaking poorly of the company, your management, or co-workers.
1st Answer Example
"My most recent position ended due to the company being in financial trouble. I was laid off with ample notice, which was positive. I have been traveling and have put out a few applications; although I am very selective where I end up next. I want to ensure that the next company I join is financially stable."
2nd Answer Example
"I am typically not a job hopper, so it was a very challenging decision to leave my role after just a few months. The owner of the private transportation company was a very nice person; however, the way the company operated was not for me. I would get phone calls from upset clients at all hours, which did not allow for a healthy balance. I have picked up some seasonal dispatch work in the meantime to supplement my income."
28. How would you handle a client who is exceptionally rude to you?
How to Answer
Company ABC prides themselves on excellent service and a positive approach. When you work in customer service, you will often come across rude individuals, so you must know how to handle these instances with poise and professionalism. Give an example of a time that you had to deal with a challenging customer. Be sure to include information on what you did to ensure a positive outcome!
Some ways that you can efficiently handle a rude customer:
- Remain kind, polite, and pleasant
- Actively listen to their grievances
- Apologize for the situation
- Maintain a neutral tone of voice
- Avoid taking anything they say, personally
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself pretty resilient when it comes to rude customers. This resilience helps me to deliver kind and polite service regardless of the attitude the other person chooses to have with me. If a client were rude to me, I would still treat them like every other customer. I would actively listen to their grievances and use my problem-solving methods to resolve the issue."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a good amount of customer service and dispute resolution training. Because I take such close care of my customers, they are not often upset. When a situation like this does occur, I remain neutral, actively listen, and avoid interrupting in any way. I will then repeat what I heard by saying, 'If I understand correctly, what is upsetting you most is A, B, and C.' Using this approach, they feel heard which is all most people want."
29. How would you deal with a supervisor who is a poor communicator?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you handle poor communication between yourself and a superior. Since you cannot often change someone's communication style, discuss what you do to adapt. Talk about a specific time when you improved communication between yourself and a supervisor. Outline your approach and the resolution.
1st Answer Example
"I recently worked for someone who was very brief and did not provide much direction. It is challenging to deliver on expectations when the goal and even the approach are not clear. This role did teach me independent thought and the ability to research and find answers for myself. As challenging as this situation was, it did give me a lot of skills when it comes to working independently."
2nd Answer Example
"I worked in a busy logistics environment where major problems could arise from poor communication. Our team seemed to be all over the place at times, and our manager wasn't very experienced. I recommended that we have a team huddle every morning and in the middle of our shift, just for 5 minutes, to ensure we were all on the same page. This solution helped us a great deal."
30. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
This question is a simple one that is very challenging to answer because it's not specific and open-ended. It can be challenging to know where to begin, and end! Many job seekers get tripped up on this question and give too much personal information, or go on a tangent for....forever.
Keep your reply light, and relevant to your work and this job. Share how you became interested in the trucking industry, for instance, and what you enjoy about it. This question offers an excellent opportunity to describe yourself by discussing the strengths and qualities that you bring.
1st Answer Example
"I am a very active individual and love to go hiking in the mountains on my days off. I enjoy reading leadership books and continually educate myself on topics that make me better at my job. I have a high amount of energy to offer and am a skilled team player."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my Associate's Degree in Transportation and am eager to start my career on the right foot. I am passionate about the trucking industry and, in my spare time, even listen to transportation and trucking-related podcasts. I am an avid reader as well; primarily science fiction."