30 Gallup Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

Tell me about a time when you provided honest feedback to a coworker.

There is an art to giving honest feedback, and the interviewer would like to know that you are capable of this tedious task. Great feedback means that you are specific, you make the feedback actionable, and you have a clear timeline for change. Discuss any formal training you have received on giving feedback, or a book you have read on the topic. Perhaps you use a particular methodology that works every time!

Rachelle's Answer #1

"When providing feedback, I like to use the 3x3 method, which I was trained on in my first management position. With this method, I offer up three strengths and three potential areas for development. I had a team member who was often late to work, or would call in sick. I let her know that she was well-liked by her coworkers. I told her that our clients complimented her customer service skills. I said I appreciated her willingness to help new hires. Then, I proceeded to let her know that her team felt disappointed, hurt, and lost trust in her whenever she would call in sick, leave early, or show up late to her shift. Together we worked on a 30-day perfect attendance plan. In the end, she did much better and, although her attendance was not perfect, it significantly improved."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I had a coworker who made me feel uncomfortable by rushing my work, looking over my shoulder, and criticizing the speed at which I worked. I approached him privately and reminded him that this was my first office job out of university and that I was still learning the role. I told him that his micromanaging made me feel uncomfortable and only worsened the issue. He apologized and committed to helping me by showing me his methods for time management. Because I was honest and forward with him, we were able to find a much more harmonious way of working together."

Anonymous Answer

"I had a co-worker who was learning new software that I was very proficient in. He asked me if I would check over his work before presenting it to management. I would check the completed work with him, highlighting some issues with the job, and teaching him how to improve his workflow and repair small problems. My co-worker appreciated me being honest and helpful in this regard, which improved our working relationship."

Rachelle's Answer

This is a nice example of providing feedback but also developing a trusting co-worker relationship.

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Anonymous Answer

"I sat with a peer after a performance discussion and asked if I could provide him feedback, he welcomed it. I gave him my comments and my reasoning for it. He understood where I was coming from. The next time we were in a discussion for a similar situation, he asked me afterward if he had been better."

Rachelle's Answer

Most people will appreciate the honest feedback, but you mentioned a key component here, which is first asking permission to provide the feedback. You show strong professional courtesy. Nicely done!

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2.

What steps have you taken this year to encourage your professional development?

The interviewer would like to see that you have taken your career path into your own hands, becoming responsible for your personal and professional development. There are many ways to take professional development steps.

These steps include:

-Reading books and articles from influencers in your industry
-Taking coursework to gain new skills
-Attending industry conferences to network and learn
-Listening to podcasts, and more

Show the interviewer that you are active in your professional growth by walking them through the steps you have actively taken this year.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"At the beginning of each year I make a plan for what I would like to accomplish in my personal and professional life. This year, my plan included attending two industry conferences. I also decided to expand my network locally by attending more business commerce meetings, and through the use of my LinkedIn profile. I also enrolled in a course on leadership in the hopes of learning new ways of leading and boosting productivity."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"This year, I have been asking for more responsibilities at work while also taking on more tasks without being asked. I committed to attempt perfect attendance at work this year, and have been reading more in my personal time. I have a list of the top 25 leadership books and plan to get through it before the end of the year. So far, I have completed the first eight books and have noticed a boost in my professional performance, already!"

Anonymous Answer

"I enrolled in a Career Pathways program."

Rachelle's Answer

Very good! Try discussing why you enrolled, and what you plan to gain from this experience. If you have already started the program, then you can discuss a takeaway that you have already gained.

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Anonymous Answer

"I listen to speakers and podcasts. I read books to grow and learn."

Rachelle's Answer

This is a great start. Try offering up details on the speakers and podcasts you listen to the most. When it comes to books, which are your favorite?

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3.

Walk me through your morning routine.

Much can be said about your work style, leadership approach, and level of accountability by learning your daily habits and routine! In your response, the interviewer would like to see structure, some creativity, eagerness to learn and grow, and a certain level of self-awareness. Take a couple of minutes to walk the interviewer through your morning routine, showing a substantial degree of maturity and structure. The last thing you would want to say is that you do not have a structure to your day!

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I begin mapping out my day the night before, ensuring that I have my suit pressed and ready for the workday. I also like to make sure my house is clean before going to bed. This way, I feel fresh and never overwhelmed when I wake up. I love listening to podcasts on life, business, and finance, so I will listen to a podcast while I shower and get ready. During my commute, I take in a book on Audible or listen to music that will put me in a great mood for the day. Once I arrive at the office, I take about 30 minutes to plan my tasks and set a couple of intentions for my day. These intentions could be to do 50 cold calls that day, or completing a new module if I am training on a new skill, for instance. As you can see, I am a very structured individual, and I value having a plan for each day."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I like to get up at the same time every day, and it's always before the sun is up. I feel that if I rise after the sun, I am already behind the 8-ball. I will review what needs accomplishing for the day, have a quick workout, and then begin getting ready for work. I like to listen to energetic music or listen to a podcast or documentary while I get ready. I take transit to work, so I am sure to arrive early to avoid any hiccups when it comes to my arrival."

Anonymous Answer

"Once I get in, I review my task list to see if priorities have changed. On my way to the office, if I pass by work areas, I say hello to everyone. In my office, I say hello to my team and ask if there is anything they need and anything I need to bring up at the daily meeting. I check for urgent voicemails, and I head up for the daily meeting. I come back and brief the team concerning the day."

Rachelle's Answer

You sound highly organized and composed. A very good response that is easy to follow.

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Anonymous Answer

"6:00 am I wake, have some coffee, check the news and emails, get kids off to school, workout, and off to work. Lead generating calls from 9-11."

Rachelle's Answer

It sounds as though you are well organized and start your day being very busy!

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4.

Do you consider yourself someone direct and forthright with others?

As a direct individual, you are honest, and to the point. You do not leave people hanging when it comes to answering, direction on a project, or necessary feedback. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were candid with a coworker, customer, or boss, ensuring that they had the direct information that they needed from you.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"Yes, I do consider myself to be direct with others. The most professional and respectful thing to do is to get to the point in a considerate way. I never sugar coat a situation; however, I do assume that everyone had the best of intentions. One example of my being direct is when one of my employees delivers a report with errors. I will approach them and say, 'There are errors in your report. Are you able to fix these by the end of the day?' By doing so, I point out the issue while being transparent and direct on what the deadlines are for resubmission."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I believe that part of being direct is sticking to the facts when discussing a workplace situation. If there is a concern with my work, I appreciate my boss approaching me promptly while outlining what needs repair. As a recent university graduate, I had many opportunities to be direct and give feedback to fellow students during group projects. I would state where I saw the issue and then offered up clear recommendations on how we could fix the situation before the assignments' due date."

Anonymous Answer

"Very much so. I am very honest but respectful. I tailor my approach to the individual."

Rachelle's Answer

Perfect answer! You show care for others while still addressing the needs at hand.

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Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I am definitely direct with others but also considerate. I like to get my point across in a respectful manner and assume that people have the best intentions. Whilst mentoring a student nurse who I asked to monitor a few patients and report back to me on checking the patient's notes, I had seen that she had not completed the task in hand but told me she had. I pointed out the importance of this and asked that it be done within 2 hours and documented. I pointed out the issue and was transparent and direct with the deadline expected."

Rachelle's Answer

Perfect example! You gave feedback, clear direction, and a measurable goal. Thinking of the outcome - did this student nurse meet your expectations in the end?

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5.

How do you react when you do not have the materials or equipment needed to perform your work?

In your career, you may face the challenge of completing a task or project when you are short on resources. The interviewer wants to know how you go about meeting expectations, regardless of your resources falling short. Do you panic and blame the company for your frustrations? Or, do you become creative and resourceful, chasing down answers and using the tools available to you? Show the interviewer that you are capable of figuring things out independently and with a positive mindset.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"When I am tasked with something new and do not have the resources I need, I will become creative, and work through the issue from the bottom up. I am sure to keep my outlook positive and begin with what I do have versus what I do not have. I begin with completing the parts that I can, breaking down the task bit by bit. I have leaned on more seasoned coworkers in the past, asking for suggestions or assistance when appropriate. Overall, I am a resourceful person and can work independently to figure out a situation even when I may not have a full range of tools or resources."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"When I feel short on resources, I begin by gathering what I have. I dig in, discover where the holes are in my project, and then work to track down what I need to make it happen. I look to resources online, internal company processes, or more experienced coworkers to help when needed. I am sure to exude confidence in myself and also rely on my knowledge. It's important to me that, even though I may face a small failure, I go for it and do the best that I can with what I have."

Anonymous Answer

"I have been in this situation a few times, I have learned to work with what I have. Sometimes budgetary constraints will mean I do not have the workforce or the ability to bring in training materials. I have run a fully functional HR department on my own for up to 6 to 12 weeks."

Rachelle's Answer

You sound very resourceful. This answer showcases your ability to do your best no matter what is, or is not, provided to you.

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Anonymous Answer

"I try not to panic and work with what I have available."

Rachelle's Answer

Using the resources available to you is a significant first step. Can you include an example of a time when you needed to do this?

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6.

Would this job give you the opportunity to do what you do best, every day?

This query can uncover if this is the best job for you, at this time in your career. People change jobs for a wide variety of reasons, and it's essential to the interviewer that this move would be a long term fit versus a short blip on your resume. This question also shows how much research you have done on the role and your understanding of the position. Other ways of asking this question could include 'What is your interest in applying for this role?' and 'Why is this job a good fit for you at this point in your career?' Be honest with the interviewer about the ways that this job will fulfill you. Name specific tasks and responsibilities that you look forward to performing, and also which parts of the role will be an exciting challenge for you.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"From the role description, I feel that there are many opportunities for me to utilize my stand-out skills. I look forward to fulfilling tasks in Software XYZ while also addressing user needs. My excellence in communication will be well-utilized as a significant portion of my time will be spent troubleshooting over the phone and by email. I am eager to gain more experience in Software ABC as well, which is a positive challenge that this role will provide me."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Yes, I wholeheartedly believe this position will allow me to let my competencies shine while also learning important new skills. I have expertise in inventory management, vendor relationships, and warehouse operations. These skills are most important in this role, and the tasks that I enjoy the most."

Anonymous Answer

"From the role description, I feel that there are many opportunities for me to utilize my stand-out skills. I look forward to providing engineering support for new product and new process introductions while also carrying out structured problem-solving. I look forward to working cross-departmentally with teams to produce a final product for the market. These aspects of the role apply to my strengths as an individual."

Rachelle's Answer

Good use of the MQ framework, while personalizing it to your own experiences.

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Anonymous Answer

"The position indicates the importance of leveraging relationships to bring together strategies and ideas to manage talent, provide the right and consistent experience to leaders, managers, and support engagement. I build strong relationships with people and, from there, determine how and what is needed to be successful. This "partnership" role would allow me to bring my best every day."

Rachelle's Answer

Awesome response! You do an excellent job bringing the responsibilities of the job into your answer, showing the interviewer that you have put ample thought into your application and candidacy.

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7.

Do you consider yourself a quick thinker? Tell me about a time when your quick thinking saved the day.

Someone who is a quick thinker will:

-Quickly pick up on new ideas
-Be fast and more natural to train
-Be able to process large amounts of information more rapidly than most.
-Look at potential solutions rather than dwelling on the problem or roadblocks.

Does this sound like you? The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself to have these qualities. Think about a time when you showcased your ability to think quickly and on the spot. Walk the interviewer through the situation, the action you took, and the impact your solution made.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I consider myself a quick thinker because I can process information quickly while reverse engineering a problem; getting straight to a few potential solutions. I do not like to dwell on problems so I have trained myself to focus on what I can do right now, and at the moment, to solve a problem. One example of my quick thinking was when a customer called in to cancel their order. I am not in sales, but the sales rep was out for the day, and I knew the customer needed saving. I started a conversation with them and asked what we could have done differently. Through a series of questions and getting to know them, I was able to smooth over the miscommunication. I uncovered a way that we could solve another one of their pain points. Although I am not in sales, my quick thinking saved the client from canceling and ensured that we maintained their valuable account for another year."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I recently read 'Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking' by Malcolm Gladwell. I learned a lot of amazing techniques and skills to help boost my ability to think on my feet. While in school, I had many instances where assignments were due on the same day, amid exams to boot. This book helped me learn to adapt my unconscious, using mental processes that help me to think rapidly without storing unnecessary information."

Anonymous Answer

"During an assessment of a patient, I knew something was off. He looked altered and much worse than the day before. A doctor urged me to transfuse him and did not come by to even assess the patient. I knew this was something more, so I elevated it to my charge nurse. We ultimately got a specialized doctor to assess the patient, who determined that the patient needed emergency surgery."

Rachelle's Answer

Wow- your diligence and observance likely saved a life. This is a very important example of your quick thinking. Are you aware of the outcome for this patient? If so, it may be nice to discuss the final result as well.

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8.

Do you understand what is expected of you in your current role?

The interviewer would like for you to take some time describing your current role and the expectations you face regularly. A sign of a mature and self-aware employee is knowing precisely what is expected of you in your job. If you show little direction or awareness of the impact you make on your company, the interviewer will see this as a red flag. There is no need to take 10 minutes walking the interviewer through your day; however, you should take a bit of time discussing your key responsibilities.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I perform a huge variety of tasks in my current role. My key responsibilities include keeping our 15 customer service reps on track, training, and onboarding new hires, and taking accountability for the store's sales performance. I am the one who answers to corporate regarding our stores' sales, customer returns, stock levels, and inventory discrepancies. My job requires a great deal of attention to detail, and I juggle many moving parts at the same time."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Yes, I do understand what is expected of me as an administrative assistant. First, I am expected to be reliable and enthusiastic about the company's mission. I am the first face that our customers see when they come into the office, so I am to smile, greet, and make them feel comfortable. I keep the office running smoothly every day, which includes answering the phone promptly, communicating with the executives whom I support, and answering inquiries that come in through our general admin email."

Anonymous Answer

"When I was recruited, they had a meeting, and it was explained to me the expectations, by increasing the number of customers and maintaining existing customers, as well as reviewing operating expenses, evaluating the team, distributing tasks according to their capabilities, and creating an information platform database for the company. also proposing new products in the market, or adding value to existing products And I think that after three years I have achieved all...and this all motivated me to work on to keep achieving their expectation."

Rachelle's Answer

You offer a lot of great detail here, but the delivery is a bit awkward. It seems you 'bury the lead,' so to speak. I have offered a revision for you, below :)

"Yes, I understand my current role very well and have exceeded expectations for the past three years. When hired at Company ABC, they explained to me their expectations, which included increasing our customer base and maintaining existing customers. Also, reviewing operating expenses, evaluating the team, distributing tasks according to their capabilities, and creating an information platform database for the company. I was also to propose new products in the market while adding value to existing products."

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Anonymous Answer

"I oversee recruitment, succession planning, performance improvement and management, leadership development, and engagement. I have reengineered our recruitment practices to be more efficient and to seek out the best talent. I created a competency profile so we can better access our current leaders for future progression, and I recently relaunched and facilitated performance improvement - thru effective interaction."

Rachelle's Answer

You do a wonderful job bringing your key accomplishments into this response. Well crafted!

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9.

How do you keep track of your day-to-day tasks and activities?

This question is an excellent opportunity for you to discuss the tools that you use to keep your day on track. Some of the most common tools used in the workplace include CRMs like Salesforce. Also, project management tools like Trello, Wrike, or Slack. Perhaps you use an app like Evernote or pay for a service such as Monday. Do you take an old-school approach and keep notes and to-do lists in a notebook that you carry with you everywhere? Whatever your method, be ready to walk the interviewer through your strategy for maximizing time and keeping yourself organized.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have always been a highly organized person, and I like to keep track of my tasks in a variety of ways. Once I have decided which tasks are most urgent, I will break them down into micro-tasks into a project management application called Asana. As I complete each task, I gain the satisfaction of crossing them off the app like a to-do list. I do not consider my day complete until all of my tasks are complete for that day."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Traditionally, I am a paper and pen person, which means that I keep nearly everything I need to know and do, in my notebook. To become more up-to-date with the software and other systems available to me to maximize organization and time management, I have started to use a service called Monday. It's a more visual tool, which I appreciate. It's been wonderful so far, and I haven't missed a deadline or a task since I started using it!"

Anonymous Answer

"I start by every Sunday, planning out and preparing for the week ahead. I use a daily planner to write down everything I need to complete for that day and then use google calendar specifically for work-related meetings. Regarding my notes and deals, I use Salesforce to stay organized, and EOD looks over all my work and makes any needed updates or changes."

Rachelle's Answer

It seems you are incredibly well organized and focused on your tasks at hand, as well as what is coming up. You offer up some nice details in your answer.

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Anonymous Answer

"I keep track by completing the CRM as I go through each meeting/call with a customer. I make any additional notes relevant to me in a handwritten form, using a notepad. At the end of my working day, I summarize and document any next steps/account plans."

Rachelle's Answer

You sound very well organized and methodical in your work. Good answer!

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10.

How do you gain buy-in from your coworkers when it comes to delivering quality work?

It's often said that we are only as strong as the weakest members of our team. Do you agree? With this question, the interviewer would like to know what action you would take if one of your coworkers were failing to carry their weight on a project. Talk about the importance of getting the job done right, setting a good example, and encouraging your teammates along the way. Your answer should showcase your work ethic as well as your leadership skills.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"If I have a coworker who is not performing to a high standard, I will approach them on the subject; however, gently and with respect and empathy. Everyone has their reason for having an 'off' day, and I do not need to cross over any personal lines. I do have expectations for the people that I work with to put in their best, as I do the same. Sometimes, when a person feels unmotivated to deliver quality work, it's because they have not been tasked with items that play to their strengths. If this is the case, I will work to ensure that the coworker is set up for success and motivated to achieve by doing what they are best at."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I will always ask for feedback on my own performance before judging the performance of my coworker. This step is because there may need to be corrections on my end for my coworker to deliver their best work, in return. I will ask if there is any need to clarify expectations or what the mission is, for the project. I find that, by looking internally first, this shows a willingness to lead by example before I judge the work of someone else."

Anonymous Answer

"On occasion, I notice that there might be an error in a document we are sending out. I will take the time to review it with the entire team, not to point out the specific person, but to highlight the importance of catching the details, reiterate the expectations of what we are doing, and why. I then speak one-on-one with my team members to catch up with what is going on with them, what they need from me to succeed."

Rachelle's Answer

This is a nice approach - asking them what they need from you to succeed. Your method sounds very team focused.

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Anonymous Answer

"I allow my coworkers to be involved in the process. That way, everyone will feel included and produce quality work."

Rachelle's Answer

Can you give an example of a time when you did this? Remember, Gallup interviews are meant to look for personality and skill, so the more examples you can offer, the better your answers will be received.

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11.

Give an example of a time when you showed integrity on the job, and in your personal life.

You know having integrity means possessing 'the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.' Now, the interviewer wants to see how you have exercised integrity in your work and personal life. Give a brief example of a time when you may have been tempted to do the wrong thing when nobody was looking. What made you choose to do the right thing in the end, and how did it make you feel?

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I aim to have integrity in all that I do, whether anyone sees me make the right decision or not. For instance, I had a client who had double charges for their order for the past six months. Before me, nobody seemed to have noticed the error. I could have let it go and kept collecting a commission on all of it; however, that is not an act of integrity. I brought the matter to our accounting department, and we credited my clients' account with the overage. In my personal life, it's the same thing. I don't keep money that I find on the ground. I return it to security if possible, or at least give it to someone in need. My integrity is important to me, especially as I expect those around me to be honest and trustworthy."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"To have integrity is to do the right thing, even when nobody is watching. When I was in university, I received a higher grade on my transcript than I earned. I brought the typo to the attention of my administrator, who then had the grade reversed. I could have taken credit, but in the end, I didn't earn that grade. I was determined to start my career off on the right foot, which is through complete honesty."

Anonymous Answer

"An associate shared she was resigning due to unsavory behavior in the dept. I looked into the matter confirmed that it was, in fact, occurring. I raised the issue with my leader and my peer. Both were initially affronted by the fact that this claim was coming to light. I confirmed that since the person was resigning, there was no reason for her to lie. We installed cameras as a preventative tactic."

Rachelle's Answer

It speaks a lot about your character and professionalism that you looked into the issue, showing the associate that you cared about what they were saying, even though they were resigning. A very good example of integrity!

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12.

On a scale of 1-5, how happy are you as a person?

It may seem odd for a potential employer to want to track your happiness. However, all smart hiring authorities know that happy people adjust to their work better, are more productive, and stay in their jobs longer. This tenure is because they feel connected and fulfilled. Talk to the interviewer about what makes you happy, being sure to address the 1-5 scale. Be ready to discuss what is making you feel most satisfied and most fulfilled at the moment! This question is not an opportunity for you to dive into the negative or explain what you dislike about your current job or situation. If there is room for improvement, you can be honest; however, take the time to discuss what you are doing to make yourself happier.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"There is always room for improvement; however, I do consider myself as fulfilled. This fulfillment is why I would rank myself as a 4 out of 5 on the happiness scale. I make sure to look at the positive side of a situation as often as possible. I take the time to give back to myself through exercise and good nutrition. I have meaningful relationships outside and inside work, which is important to me."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I would rank my level of happiness as a 3.5 out of 5 right now. I am loving life; however, have a healthy level of discontent as I continue to find the best career path for myself since graduating university. I have plenty of things to be thankful for and make a habit of practicing gratitude daily."

Anonymous Answer

"Is one low and five high? I would say I am a 4 in general. I love being able to feel like I have accomplished or finished a task, helped someone, and answered a needed question. It is why I stay late or work weekends. I love coming home to my dogs and seeing how happy they are to see me."

Rachelle's Answer

Great answer! It's nice how you dove into a variety of things that are making you happy right now.

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Anonymous Answer

"4. I generally enjoy life, I like my job and find a lot of self-fulfillment out of doing my work, and I also have a lot of hobbies and positive things going on outside of work. My family, friends, and my dog make me very happy as well as activities like hiking & working out. There is always some room for improvement, which is why I assigned a four instead of a five."

Rachelle's Answer

It's always good to leave something as an aspirational measure. You do an excellent job outlining what fulfills you, giving the interviewer a nice glimpse into what drives you daily.

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13.

Name for me one task in your current job that you wish you could perform more often.

Chances are, the task that you discuss is one that you perform the best. Because we all prefer to do the things we are good at! The purpose of this question is for the interviewer to uncover some of your greatest strengths. Think about your favorite days at work at what they entail. Maybe you love being on the phone with customers, helping them solve product-related issues. Perhaps you most enjoy training a coworker on the company's new software update. Or, maybe giving outstanding stakeholder presentations brings you to life! Whatever your answer, be sure to show enthusiasm for what you do.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I thoroughly enjoy many tasks in my current role; especially making client site visits. I like to see my clients in person so that I can learn how their business operates and make more targeted product and service recommendations. I feel I can be more hands-on and helpful this way."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I love to learn and conduct research. If I could perform one task more often, it would be the database searches and analysis that my boss has me perform in Salesforce. I like taking our client information and breaking down trends in their buying patterns and then presenting the sales teams with targeted opportunities. Most businesses thrive when they can better understand their customer data and trends, and I enjoy being a part of that research."

Anonymous Answer

"It is conducting skip-level one-on-ones with leaders of different operational areas. Be able to plan learning programs that are longer than 4 hours."

Rachelle's Answer

Very specific, which will certainly help the hiring company to know where they could put more focus when it comes to your responsibilities.

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Anonymous Answer

"I enjoy studying the market trends, looking at the business month's sales performance over the month, year over year. And anticipating what will happen next and therefore making an action plan. In real estate, the action plan is finding the right price to buy or sell a home and writing the best offer."

Rachelle's Answer

Nice! It seems you have a lot of enthusiasm for research, analysis, and market data.

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14.

When you think about joining a new company, are you nervous about meeting new people or is this an exciting thought for you?

This question is an opportunity to reflect on your personality. How willing are you to approach change in your career? Your answer will also let the interviewer know how they may best approach your onboarding, should you be the successful candidate. Joining a new company can be scary. Some of the biggest hesitations surround giving notice to your current employer, failing at your new job, or feeling alone and uncomfortable at first. If you are a highly outgoing person, you may not feel these hesitations as strongly as someone shy or more introverted. Be honest and give a response that is true to you.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am outgoing, a natural leader, and am one to embrace change. For this reason, I am not nervous when I think about joining a new company. I like to meet new people, learn about their strengths, and how we can begin a great collaboration."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I have had similar experiences in the past like joining a new high school, my first day in university, and even the first day of my internship. I tend to be a touch shy at first but am usually able to push through it and make meaningful connections quite quickly. I know that this company would take measures to make me feel comfortable on my first day. You have already shown a friendly and relaxed vibe throughout the interview process."

Anonymous Answer

"I am outgoing, a natural leader, and is willing to embrace change. For this reason, I am not nervous about joining a new company; rather I am excited to meet new people, learn new things, and embrace how we can begin to perform and collaborate together."

Rachelle's Answer

Wonderful edit! You show confidence and enthusiasm in your response.

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Anonymous Answer

"Meeting new people is thrilling to me. I enjoy getting to know new individuals."

Rachelle's Answer

That's great! What is your approach to building new relationships?

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15.

Do you consider yourself an overachiever? Why or why not?

It's important first to define what you believe to be overachieving. By definition, overachievers 'perform better or achieve more success than expected.' There are a variety of indicators that you are an overachiever. These include:

-You judge your worthiness on how well to perform a task or complete a goal
-You are hyper-focused on avoiding failure
-You often overcommit and stay late to achieve more at work
-You struggle with taking feedback or criticism because it feels like a failure
-You are always focusing on what's next
-Your friends and family often refer to you as a perfectionist

It may seem now that it isn't a great thing to be considered an overachiever. If you do resonate with being an overachiever, this is entirely okay! It's essential, however, that you express to the interviewer that you are still a team player who can accept feedback and avoid burnout.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I like to take my goals and targets and achieve more than expected. With that said, I do not struggle with feelings of perfectionism. I like to gain feedback from my managers so that I can improve. It's important to me that I achieve and not fail; however, I still understand that failure is a part of life. When I do not achieve a goal, I can easily pick myself back up and try again."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I was most certainly a perfectionist when attending university. I was the first in my family to attend post-secondary schooling, and thus, I put a great deal of pressure on myself to achieve perfect grades. This overachieving led to burnout quickly! Although I am proud of my GPA, I did spend a lot of time finding a good balance between achieving my goals and making myself happy. Today, I will do my best at work without displaying the typical negative traits of an overachiever, such as fear of failure trouble accepting feedback."

Anonymous Answer

"I do like to execute things better than they may have been done before. I look for areas where I might be able to improve processes or programs to be more efficient and serve people better. This may mean that I will put in all the hours necessary to get things done for a successful and seamless rollout. When I am in the midst of a project, I am thinking of three steps ahead."

Rachelle's Answer

You give some great examples of ways that you give your best without sounding like a perfectionist who gets in their own way.

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Anonymous Answer

"I set my own goals and targets and always attempt to achieve more than expected. I always push myself and try to exceed my last goal/task. Winning is important to me, but I also understand this may not always happen, and I am happy to stop, re-evaluate, and try again and/or ask for constructive criticism."

Rachelle's Answer

Tell me about a time when you provided honest feedback to a coworker.

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