32 Dispatcher Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Dispatcher interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How would you describe your work ethic?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks about your work ethic they are looking for specific examples or keywords they can relate to. When you read the company job posting or job description do they refer to particular company ethics? Talk about their values and how those align well with your personal work values.
Some characteristics you may want to use are:
- Determined/Driven
- Accountable
- Humble
- Respectful
- Dependable
Answer Example
"I am a very dedicated and loyal employee. I saw on your website that you describe your company as honest, transparent and you go the extra mile for your clients. My work ethic is the same. I am honest, flexible, and come ready to work hard for my employer every day."
2. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
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 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."
3. Why were you fired or let go from your last job?
How to Answer
Being terminated does not have to be an embarrassing or shameful thing. Be open and honest with the interviewer regarding your dismissal. Be sure to let the interviewer know that you can provide positive references despite a previous termination.
Answer Example
"I was terminated from my last position due to my inability to relocate to the new plant that my company was opening. It was unfortunate but I am confident that I will find the right fit again shortly. Despite my termination, I am able to provide you with strong work references."
4. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from simply watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
5. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
How to Answer
Many interviewers will start off with this question, which could throw you off a bit. You've done all of this research on the company but have you prepared to talk about yourself?
The interviewer is looking for relevant information to the position you applied for. Respond by mentioning your education, how many years of experience you have in your field, and be sure give some details about your most current position. Conclude your response with a statement about what you are looking for in a position at this time.
Answer Example
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6. We are looking for a long term fit. What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?
How to Answer
Everyone will have their own particular triggers that cause them to feel dissatisfaction on the job. Talk to the interviewer about any factors that may deflate or discourage you in the workplace.
Answer Example
"I can feel dissatisfaction on the job when I am not feeling heard or when there is not a mutual respect among the team members. I work best in more harmonious situations where there is little drama or gossip."
7. We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught a co-worker stealing?
How to Answer
Some businesses have trouble with employee theft and they need to make sure that they are hiring someone who is honest and trustworthy. Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you caught a co-worker stealing.
Answer Example
"I am sure that you have an internal policy for employee theft so I can assure you that I would follow the required steps to report the theft. I am a trustworthy person with a strong track record of honesty with my previous employers."
8. The accuracy of our dispatchers is the key to our success. Do you always double check or proofread your work?
How to Answer
Double checking and proofreading are all very important parts of a job well done. Assure the interviewer that you are diligent when it comes to submitting good, clean, work. Let them know that you understand how important accuracy is, in this line of work.
Answer Example
"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple check my work if there is time! I feel that it is very important to submit error free work and I do understand how important accuracy is within dispatch. Errors are costly and time consuming."
9. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations are to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus health benefits and 3 weeks' paid vacation. I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher in my next position."
10. As a dispatcher, we will require you to often be on call. Are you able to commit to this?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be assured that you will be able to meet the scheduling commitments associated with being a dispatcher. Before you answer, be sure that you understand how often you will be on call. It's absolutely okay to ask the interviewer to clarify any scheduling expectations.
If you fully understand the schedule and expectations: "I understand that this dispatch position requires shift work, overtime, and being on call every other weekend. I am certainly able to meet those expectations."
If you do not fully understand the schedule and expectation: "I am available to work a variety of hours and am accustomed to being on call. Could you clarify for me the exact hours expectations for this role?"
Answer Example
"I understand that this dispatch position requires shift work, overtime, and being on call every other weekend. I am certainly able to meet those expectations."
11. Dispatch requires a great amount of patience. 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 really important that you are able to showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is certainly a virtue, but can be difficult to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you posses the ability to keep your cool in challenging situations.
Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an 8 /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 great new methods for coping under stress."
12. How do you deal with conflict on your team?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking to hear about your ability to communicate with your team and handle issues in a professional manner, when they arise.
Think of an example where you worked closely with your team to resolve a conflict. You could also offer a scenario where you mediated an issue between two coworkers. Show that you can keep your head on your shoulders when dealing with conflict.
Answer Example
"I have strong conflict management skills and in my current position, have had to exercise those skills from time to time. Transportation is a high-stress work environment which can cause a lot of unnecessary conflicts among the team. When a conflict arises, I like to deal with it swiftly, openly, and with poise. Transparency and openness is how I lead my team so I will call a group meeting where we express concerns and get it all out on the table."
13. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your personal traits vs. your integrity. This would include keywords such as introverted, energetic, and confident.
Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable yet firm, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
14. At your current or former place of employment, how important was communication and dealing with others?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working in an environment where clear communication with others is key? Talk to the interviewer about your most recent workplace and how communication played a part.
Answer Example
"In my previous role, healthy communication was required in order to protect the safety of our employees. We transported dangerous goods and it was required by our management that we all take specific workshops on communication and documentation. Because of this, my communication skills are exceptionally strong."
15. What are your weaknesses?
How to Answer
Pick weaknesses that are not a core skill for your success as a dispatcher. You can be candid in your answer; recognizing that you really aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our own weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
Answer Example
"I believe I could improve on some technical skills including Excel. Currently I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled myself in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"
16. What are your strengths?
How to Answer
Which personal strengths make you an excellent dispatcher? Strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks.
In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role.
Some great strengths to mention are:
- Communicative
- Loyal
- Collaborative
- Tech Savvy
- Flexible in Schedule/Availability
- Persistent and Determined
- Eager for Knowledge/New Skills
Answer Example
"I am quick thinking, reassuring, and an effective problem solver. The role of a dispatcher is very serious and high-pressure; I take this duty very seriously. I am a great fit for the job because I can think on my feet, I remain calm and collected, and even in a high stress situation, I'm able to think clearly and make smart decisions. I know how to calm others down and continue talking with them until I know they are safe. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent dispatcher."
17. What attracted you to our dispatcher job posting?
How to Answer
Were you attracted to the job posting because the company culture was enticing? Did they suggest an irresistible compensation package? Perhaps you know about the company's reputation and it prompted you to apply. Tell the hiring manager how you felt when you initially saw the job posting.
Answer Example
"I was really excited when I first saw your job posting because I have had an eye out for openings in your company for quite some time. Your organization has a very strong reputation and when I read the posting, it described the exact role I have been looking for. I applied immediately and am thrilled to be here interviewing with you today."
18. How does our dispatch position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Is this particular dispatcher position a good fit? Is it a step up in your career or a stagnant move that you are complacent with taking until something better comes along? Assure the interviewer that this dispatch position will be challenging for you, is a step up in responsibilities, and that it fits with your overall career goals.
Answer Example
"My primary goal in my career as a dispatcher is to eventually work my way into a dispatch team lead position. I feel that what your organization offers is a strong path towards that leadership goal and I am excited about what this position has to offer."
19. As a dispatcher, your day can change at any second. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
How to Answer
Being able to make quick decisions and think fast on your feet sets top-notch dispatchers out from the crowd. Dispatchers make a lot of decisions every day, so start off by telling the interviewer that you make a lot of quick decisions each day. Next, be prepared for a more significant example that will be sure to impress.
Answer Example
"My current position requires me to make tough decisions on a regular basis. I work well under pressure like that. Last week, I had two drivers who were given the incorrect cargo. I was able to dispatch them back to the warehouse, had our hand bombers ready to swap the loads, while ensuring that our clients were kept in the loop the entire time. It worked out well because I am no stranger to multi-tasking and I have great support staff."
20. Think about a difficult boss, professor or coworker. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please.
Think about that one person at work who is seen as difficult. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was to you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.
Answer Example
"I once worked at a locally owned shop where the owner was very demanding. When the owner would walk into the store, employees would announce over their headset system that the owner was in the building, so that everyone could be prepared for his entrance into their department. The owner had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as he might say them."
21. Dispatching is often unpredictable. When planning your day, how often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
How to Answer
Being able to problem solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a very valuable skill set as a dispatcher. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios.
Answer Example
"I feel that it is very important to create alternative scenarios in all situations. One cannot guess what will happen in the end so it is great to be prepared for all possible outcomes."
22. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace.
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
23. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would like to be recognized for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?
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 to be given 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."
24. Being a dispatcher is a high-pressure position. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace.
Answer Example
"I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
25. How strong is your geographical knowledge?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be assured that you are confident in your knowledge of the surrounding areas. As a dispatcher, you must have strong geographical knowledge and good recall skills. Talk about the time that you have spent becoming familiar with the region. The employer may also have geographical testing available so it's great offer your participation in any testing they may want to conduct.
Answer Example
"I have lived in this region for the past 13 years and have dispatched here for the past 5. My geographical knowledge is advanced. If you would like, I am happy to take any geographical tests you may need."
26. Do you have experience in scheduling?
How to Answer
Tell the hiring manager about any scheduling experience you have. Bring your resume to life for the interviewer an ensure the interviewer will see you as competent with scheduling tasks. Also, include any scheduling programs or software that you may have experience in.
Answer Example
"My last 2 employers were both dispatch related so yes, I have approximately 6 years experience with scheduling. When conducting scheduling duties, I would do so in FieldAware Smart Scheduler."
27. Would your former or current boss describe you as a worker who gladly goes the extra mile to complete their tasks?
How to Answer
You can absolutely say that you will go the extra mile but it's best to give a real life example to the interviewer about a time when you did just that. Offer up your references as well and discuss with the interviewer what you feel your most recent employer would say about you.
Answer Example
"My former boss would definitely describe me as an employee who goes the extra mile. In my most recent position, I was always available on my email and many of my service clients had my cell phone number just in case of an after-hours emergency. When you call my reference he will be happy to expand on that for you, I am sure."
28. A dispatcher must pay exceptional attention to the small details. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
How to Answer
It is always best to support your reply with a real life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job.
Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out small route discrepancies. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."
29. We are seeking a dispatcher who is present, and reliable. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2 and those were accompanied by a note from my doctor. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
30. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
How to Answer
In which manner do you prefer to communicate; written or verbal? Discuss your preference with the interviewer and support your answer.
Answer Example
"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression and body language. I will always choose a face to face or phone conversation whenever possible."
31. Dispatchers must have strong communication skills. Rate your communication skills from 1-10.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
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 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."
32. What type of dispatch equipment are you most experienced with?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you will be competent when it comes to the type of equipment they use. When on-boarding, the less technical training required, the faster you will become a high performing member of their team. If you are not familiar with the type of dispatch equipment used in this role, it is a great idea to ask. This way, you can let the interviewer know what your current capabilities are.
Answer Example
"I understand that you use the Motorola APX2500 as well as the Platronics Wireless Headset. I have used these pieces of equipment for the past 4 years. I would be very comfortable here and would require minimal training."