30 Service Station Attendants Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Service Station Attendants 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. Are you prepared to work part of your day outdoors in a variety of weather conditions?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants assurance that you have come to your interview with a complete understanding of what it takes to work in a service station setting. Assure the interviewer that you realize the conditions you will be exposed to, whether it be rain, snow, or the hot sun. Of course, your response will depend on the region where you live. The main point is to show your enthusiasm and willingness to work hard.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have lived in this region most of my life and am accustomed to the blistering heat, especially in the summer months. I am sure to stay hydrated and wear hats to avoid overexposure to the sun. I will always come to work well prepared to face the elements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"In this region, we have a lot of snow and cold day dipping far below zero degrees. I will come prepared with the appropriate work gear to protect me from the elements. I do bring experience working outdoors from my previous job as a rig hand. Rest assured, I will always be ready for our unpredictable weather."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
2. 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 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. Give examples of how you go the extra mile in the workplace.
Here are some ways that you can go the extra mile:
- Starting on your weekly inventory count, without being asked.
- Taking immediate action on any feedback that you receive from your manager.
- Coming to staff meetings ready to brainstorm or, better yet, with ideas already jotted down
- Creating new ways for you and your team to maximize efficiency
- Going out of your way to make your customers happy
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I certainly plan to be an employee who goes the extra mile! I have always put my best foot forward in school, and I very much dislike being bored. I will go the extra mile whenever possible because that's what great employees do."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I fully believe that my current employer would describe me as a diligent go-getter. I like to work on upcoming projects without being asked. For instance, I will re-merchandise before the scheduled time so that we aren't scrambling when our new inventory comes in."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
3. We are seeking a reliable person for our team. How many days were you absent or late for work this past month?
How to Answer
Due to the hours of a service station, some even operating 24/7, the interviewer wants assurance that you are present, dedicated, and on time. 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"This past year, I missed three consecutive days of school due to illness. I am very dedicated to my projects and my commitments. I had strep throat and still worked on my assignments from home!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I come from the old school way of thinking where if you aren't in the hospital, you show up to work. I can honestly say that the last sick day I took was about six years ago. I arrive 10 minutes early for work so that I am getting settled off the clock, be sure never to waste my employers' time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
4. Tell me about the last customer service skill you learned.
How to Answer
It is essential to a hiring manager that you are willing to learn new skills. Being eager to add to your professional repertoire is an excellent way to stand out from the competition. Some new skills related to customer service can range from customer dispute resolution to improved product knowledge to further expertise in a point-of-sale system. If there is a skill that you want to learn, and have not yet taken advantage of, you can mention your interest.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"In school, while working on my communications degree, I attended a class in empathetic listening. This skill is one that everyone should have. I learned a lot about consistent and professional messaging when dealing with customer disputes."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"The last customer service skill that I learned included a course on dispute resolution management. I feel this course helped me a great deal when it comes to my confidence level and working with disgruntled customers. I plan to take the advanced level of this course as a follow-up."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
5. How do you feel about saying 'no' to a customer with unreasonable requests?
How to Answer
In a customer service focused role, you have likely come across some pretty crazy requests from customers! The interviewer is interested in knowing where you draw the line when it comes to customer needs that you cannot deliver. Give an example of a time when you had to say no to a customer. Assure the interviewer that you are happy to accommodate anyone within reason!
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Naturally, I want to say yes as often as possible; however, I know that there are situations to keep in mind, such as safety, protocol, and in the event of a service station environment - even government policy. If the situation were serious or related to the safety of others, I would have no problem turning down a customer request. I would do so respectfully, of course."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In retail, there will be customers who want you to deliver the impossible. I am down for a challenge; however, there are some things that I cannot do. I recently had a customer who wanted to go through our car wash with an exposed propane tank on the back of his truck. I refused to sell him a wash ticket, and he was furious. No matter what I did to reason with him, he did not seem to understand. Once I directed him to a hand was station down the street, he dropped the subject and left. I realize that I cannot make everyone happy, and I am okay with that, especially when it comes to the safety of others."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
6. Have you received any formal customer service training?
How to Answer
Much of your role as a Service Station Attendant will require customer interaction. The interviewer would like to know about any formal training you have received, related to customer service. This training could include on-the-job training, online courses, or even books that you have read in your spare time.
Show the interviewer that you have an interest in bettering your customer service delivery. This question is a great time to ask the interviewer about their company-specific customer service training and manuals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I would love to know more about the customer service training that you offer. I have a great instinct when it comes to interacting with others, but I have not received any formal workplace training."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Near the beginning of my career, I did take a course on retail customer service basics. There are best practices that I still implement today, such as active listening, not interrupting, and repeating the problem back to the customer. Because much of my role includes quick transactions with many people per day, I have to make sure that every minute is a positive experience for my customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
7. Have you ever been fired from a job? If so, can you explain the situation?
How to Answer
Being let go from your position is an unfortunate event; however, it happens to the best of us and often for situations that are out of our control. It's best to own up to it if you have ever lost your job. Be brief in your explanation but also let the interviewer know what you learned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Luckily, I have never experienced a termination. I like to give my best in all situations. If I am not performing up to my employers' standards, I would appreciate an open and transparent conversation so that I have the opportunity to adjust my approach and deliver better work."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I experienced a termination once before. Earlier in my career, I was not as prompt as I am today. After coming to work late a couple of times, my boss lets me go. It was embarrassing and changed the course for me. I am much more dedicated and have not been late for work in years."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
8. As a Service Station Attendant, you will be responsible for large amounts of merchandise and cash. Do you consider yourself an honest and trustworthy employee?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you see yourself as a truly trustworthy person. It is easy to say that you are reliable and honest, but it's best if you can back it up with an example or words from a previous supervisor. If you have handled cash or merchandise, you can mention how accurate your till counts are at the end of your shift. Alternately, you can provide an example of a time when you did the honorable thing, even if nobody was looking.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"My friends and family rely on me heavily because I am trustworthy and honest. They can count on me to be straightforward with them and depend on me to be there when it matters most."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am an honest and trustworthy individual, and you will be able to hear that directly from my supervisor when you call for a reference. I hold honesty and trustworthiness as fundamental virtues. In all of my previous roles, there has never been a discrepancy related to my till or inventory counts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
9. When faced with a problem, are you more likely to jump into solving it, or are you the type to carefully assess the issue first?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your problem-solving skills and your personality. Discuss how you tackle problems when they arise, keeping your answer work-related if you can. Whether you are the type to jump right into solving a problem or you are more methodical in your approach, highlight to the interviewer that you are capable of handling issues professionally while using sound judgment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I think it depends on the situation at hand, honestly. In a familiar situation, I am ready to jump right in and tackle the problem. However, when the stakes are high, or tension is high, I am more inclined to take a step back, slow down, and be more thoughtful in my approach."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I'm a 'roll up my sleeves' kind of person. I see a problem, envision a solution, and begin to tackle it, figuring it out as I go and asking for help along the way. I believe that I cannot leave a problem to fester or become bigger than it already is. I have to take ownership of the issue and involve myself in the resolution right away. With that said, I am responsible for my decision making and certainly don't jump in blind. If I am unsure of what action to take, I will ask my leader for advice."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
10. When was the last time you helped out a coworker?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see how far back you need to reach, to answer this question. Are you a highly collaborative person, or do you spend most of your day with your head buried in your work and not looking for opportunities to be a team player? Big or small, quickly think of a time when you assisted someone else, helping them to be successful in their role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Just this week, I helped a fellow student write the introduction to an English paper. She was feeling a bit stuck, so we had a 30-minute brainstorm to get her mojo flowing again. I found it fun to help, and I am sure she will receive a strong grade for all of her hard work."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I helped a coworker to ring in a refund for an angry customer yesterday. She was nervous because the customer was a bit intimidating, and I could tell she needed my help. I kept the customer occupied in conversation while she performed the refund on our point of sale. She thanked me later for noticing her need and jumping in. That's what teamwork is all about, and I know she would do the same for me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
11. What type of manager do you best work with?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like assurance that you are going to get along well with your assigned manager. There are many different management styles, and perhaps you do well with a variety of them. Tell the interviewer about your favorite manager in the past and why you worked so well together. You should also ask the interviewer in return if they can describe the working style of the person to whom you would be reporting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I can get along well with many different personality types; however, at this early stage in my career, I work best with managers who like to coach, train, and develop their staff. Could you describe the work style of the manager in this role?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I work well with a manager who can set clear guidelines and then allow me to perform my best work. I am independent; however, I love a collaborative work environment. This best describes my current work environment. Could you share with me a bit more about the work style of the person to whom I would be reporting?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
12. Would your current employer be willing to provide a verbal or written reference for you?
How to Answer
Before your interview, make sure you have your references prepared just in case the interviewer requests them. If you don't feel comfortable using your current employer as a reference, explain that you have other recommendations better suited at this time. Those can be past supervisors, a coach, a mentor, or even a teacher. Your choice will depend on where you are in your career.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Although I am new to my career, I do have many people in my life willing to speak about my character and strong moral values. I have compiled a list for you, including my football coach and a close family friend who I interned for over the summer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have some strong, positive references, but I would not be comfortable with you contacting my current boss, seeing as they do not know I am looking for a new position. My previous manager has since left the company, and I would be happy to provide his information, as well as some other helpful references."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
13. How soon can you start?
How to Answer
In industries such as retail and customer service, it is not uncommon to be offered the job right on the spot. Depending on the situation and location, the hiring authority may see more turnover than usual, leading to faster decision making in the hiring process.
Before your interview, make sure you have a start date in mind for the new employer. You may need to give two weeks to your previous position. If you are unemployed, perhaps you can start right away. In either situation, be prepared with an affirmative answer.
If you are currently working, you should always show professionalism by offering two weeks' notice to your current employer. No hiring manager is ever impressed when they hear 'I can quit my job today and start tomorrow!' Show that you are professional and reliable in all situations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I just finished school and am ready to begin this next phase as soon as I can. Do you have a start date in mind?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I would give the customary two weeks' notice to my current employer, out of courtesy to them. Of course, I am eager for this role and would love to make this change as soon as possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
14. Do you prefer to work on your own, or as a part of a team?
How to Answer
Depending on the size of the service station to which you are applying, you may be required to work alone (small-sized stations or those with a lot of automation) or with a group of others (stations with multiple pumps and a range of services). The interviewer wants to get a feel for your personality and how you interact with others. You may work well without the need for much management or direction, or perhaps you are better driven by a collaborative and team led environment. Either way, be honest with the interviewer about your preferences without leaning negatively, either way.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have a lot of experience working in a team environment through group projects at school and organized sports. With that said, I am self-disciplined and am confident that I could thrive in an independent work setting as well. Could you share with me how you generally staff your service station?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"Most of my recent retail experience includes independent work since I currently manage a kiosk, so I would welcome the support of working in a team environment. Whether I am doing an independent project or working in a team environment, I always give my best. I enjoy the camaraderie of working in a team, but I can be successful working autonomously as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
15. We have a large variety of products and SKUs. Have you ever been responsible for inventory tracking and ordering?
How to Answer
Depending on the size of the service station, you could be dealing with thousands of product SKU's and a great deal of inventory. Walk the interviewer through your experience when it comes to inventory tracking and ordering. Be sure to include any software or programs you have used to help facilitate these inventory tasks.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Although I have never been responsible for inventory tracking or ordering supplies, I am a highly organized person and very technically capable. I look forward to learning the systems that you use to keep stocked and on track."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"My current role includes a monthly inventory count and communication with a variety of vendors, which includes ordering inventory through our tracking system. It's called IMS and helps us to gauge fuel amounts, tells us when to reorder fuel and what to restock on the shelves. I love the system as it keeps us all very organized, and our customers are happy that we always have the items in stock that they have come to expect."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
16. Walk me through your experience with automobile care and maintenance.
How to Answer
The hiring authority would like a thorough overview of your experience caring for vehicles, whether your own or on the job. If you have formal education related to automobile care and maintenance, be sure to outline this training. If you are new to the industry, be sure to express that you are eager and ready to learn new skills.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have watched tutorials online related to small engine repair, motorcycle maintenance, and shop safety. I have a short term goal of attending vocational school part-time while I work. I want to earn my ASE Certification over time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have taken a few online automotive maintenance courses, alongside my on-the-job training and experience over the past number of years. My coursework has included ASE Certification as well as Autoshop 101 and Small Engine Repair. Should you choose to hire me, I have skills that I am ready to apply as well as teach to other more junior attendants."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
17. Are you able to replace headlights, windshield wiper blades and spark plugs?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to get an idea of how skilled you are with routine automobile maintenance, such as replacing wiper blades, headlights, or spark plugs.
Talk about the years of experience you have or how many times you believe you have performed these tasks in your career as a Service Station Attendant. If you are new to these tasks, that is okay! Be sure to express that you are ready to learn new skills and take on new challenges.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have performed these tasks on my vehicle, and I am confident that I could quickly learn to perform minor repairs and upgrades for others. Could you share with me the type of training offered in this role, when it comes to standard maintenance tasks?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have around four years of experience as a Service Station Attendant and estimate that I have performed these tasks at least a few hundred times. I am not an expert, as there is always more to learn and new vehicle models released; however, I do consider myself to be highly capable."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
18. Are you able to easily explain to any customer the basics of their vehicle troubles?
How to Answer
As a Service Station Attendant, you may need to help customers with spark plugs, flat tires, burnt-out headlights, broken windshield wipers, and more. The interviewer would like to know that you can explain these issues to someone no matter their depth of knowledge. Think about the way you would explain spark plug replacement to someone who knew nothing about vehicles, for instance. Overall, it's essential to show the hiring authority that you can deliver a simple explanation to their customers who need minor repairs on their vehicles.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"As I learn more about the mechanics of a vehicle, I think of ways that I would explain the process to others if needed. I have read many complicated guides and manuals and believe that most people would benefit from simpler language and explanations when it comes to vehicle repair and maintenance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have worked on vehicles for the past eight years and am very confident in my ability to explain many functions of a vehicle in layman's terms. For instance, I help my grandmother with her vehicle maintenance and can explain what I did in a way that she finds interesting. Sometimes a great way to explain is by showing the customer what I am doing, helping them to feel involved in the repair process."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
19. As a Service Station Attendant you will come across rude customers from time to time. How will you deal?
How to Answer
When you work in customer service, you will sometimes come across rude individuals, and the interviewer wants to know that you can handle such a situation with professionalism. Give an example of a time that you had to deal with a challenging customer situation. Be sure to include a positive outcome, or what you learned from the incident.
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
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have a resilient personality and an ability to handle rude people without an issue. If a customer is unhappy, I will ask them what I can do to alleviate the situation. I am all about customer service and service with a smile!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have handled many rude customers who are often in a rush or are unhappy about the price of fuel and seem to take it out on me. I make sure to let anything rude they said to slide off my back like it is nothing. I keep smiling and doing my job!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
20. Give me an example of how you delivered excellent customer service at your last position.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants confirmation that your definition of excellent customer service exceeds their expectations. You could talk about a time when you calmed down an upset customer or went above the expectations of your role to make a customer want to return. Perhaps you had a customer dispute and were able to smooth over the issue using your great instinct and friendly disposition. Be sure to close with how happy the customer was when they left. Include any feedback that you received from your supervisor or co-workers afterward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"In my role as a customer service rep, I showed excellent customer service by having a substantial amount of product knowledge. I made sure that I was the product expert so that I could be a wealth of knowledge to my clients. I would never want to say 'I don't know' to a customer. I will always find an answer if I don't already have one."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"In my previous role as a Service Station Manager, I ensured the delivery of excellent customer service by training my team to be positive-minded and encouraging to everyone around them. Customers can tell when someone wants to help them versus being forced to because it's their job. Together, we created a friendly and welcoming environment that our regular customers greatly appreciated."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
21. The hours of a Service Station Attendant can be unpredictable. Are you willing to work overtime, evenings, and weekends?
How to Answer
It's essential to be very honest about your schedule and your ability to meet the needs of the hiring company. Make sure you are crystal clear on the expectations, since many service stations are open late, on holidays, or even operate on a 24/7 basis. Share what you can do, and ask what the expectations are in return.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Since I am still in school, my ideal hours are from 4 pm until close and also most weekends. My availability will be more flexible during the summer and also on some holidays such as Christmas and spring break. Could you share with me the expected hours and commitment for this position?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am willing to work as a cohesive member of the team and understand that this means some weekends, evenings, and holidays. I am very open to overtime hours as well. I am a hard worker and ready to take on a full workload."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
22. Are you comfortable promoting a product, or up-selling, during a customer interaction?
How to Answer
Customer service does not always mean jumping into a sales conversation. Still, the interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable taking a general customer interaction and turning it into a sales opportunity for their service station. If you have a specific example of a time when you naturally up-sold a client, this is an excellent addition to your reply. Be sure to mention any training that you have in sales, upselling, or a similar skill.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I plan to consider every customer interaction an opportunity to sell and upsell. Its important to me that the people I communicate with are aware of the great products and services available to them through the service station. I am happy to make suggestions that I believe will benefit them or meet a need."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I believe that each customer service interaction should be considered an opportunity to upsell or turn an existing customer into a larger one. I will upsell a customer any time that it makes sense. For instance, if the weather is nice, I will offer a car wash with a fuel fill. If the upsell opportunity is relevant, I will certainly take it."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
23. Do you have experience in collecting customer payments? If so, what type of transactions have you completed?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you will be able to handle payments from customers, whether it be cash, card, gift certificates, or even split payments. Talk about your ability to use a point of sale system, give correct change and process payments properly so that the till can be balanced at the end of the day. If you do not have this type of work experience, be sure to express a desire and eagerness to learn.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"This would be my first job and, therefore, my first time taking and logging transactions or client payments. I do have solid math skills and will be able to calculate change quickly. I am a fast learner and quick on new technologies."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have used a variety of POS Systems, as well as a range of credit and debit card machines. My till counts are never off, and I always double-check the change that I give back when a customer uses cash. In my current job, I am usually the associate who trains any new attendants as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
24. Name a few ways that you could up-sell a customer purchasing fuel.
How to Answer
Many service stations rely on selling more than just fuel or primary vehicle needs, such as windshield washer fluid. If you have experience working as a Service Station Attendant, tell a brief story of a time when you maximized a sale during a customer interaction. If you are new to your career, think about the times you have gone to a service station. What other products or services were available to you?
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"When I am at the service station, I am often asked if I need a car wash, a bottle of water, or any washer fluid or oils. I think it's great to offer choices to customers, so, for that reason, I come prepared to up-sell your customers any product or service that will benefit them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"Every time I sell fuel, I also offer a discounted pack of car washes, washer fluid, and snacks. These are all items that are easy to upsell since they are related to driving, road trips, and regular vehicle maintenance. I would say, on average, I upsell around 20% more of the original transaction. This up-selling makes a significant difference for my employers' bottom line."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
25. Walk me through your experience as a Service Station Attendant, including any specific training.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants you to describe your work history briefly, and any related training you have received. Be brief and decisive, outlining one or two main achievements in each of your jobs. Be sure to include any relevant training, whether formal or on-the-job. It is essential to avoid complaining about any past jobs or previous employers as you take the hiring authority through your work history.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am new to my career, having just graduated from vocational training and earning a certificate in automobile maintenance. I have worked seasonally in retail, primarily in customer service based roles, where I received training in customer dispute management."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I began working at a service station in high school as a part-time sales attendant, then moved to full time after graduating. I worked as an assistant manager of the same service station while finishing my certificate in automobile service. My tenure with my past employer has been strong, and I am now looking for an employer who can offer me work that relates closer to my education in automobile service and maintenance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
26. If a customer purchased a car wash coupon code that did not work, what would you do?
How to Answer
This question is a basic customer service query where the interviewer wants to know how you would react in a situation where you may have a frustrated customer. Car wash codes can glitch, and often, it's at the worst times - when there is a big lineup of cars waiting. Put yourself in this situation and discuss with the hiring authority how you would jump into action to help out a customer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"This is often a worry of mine when I am in the car wash lineup, so, interestingly, you ask this question! If this situation happened to a customer while I was working, I would go out to the area and have them try a different code. I believe this would be a simple fix and look forward to learning more about your protocols for customer service issues such as this."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I had this situation happen a few times, primarily before our service station updated our car wash system to a more automated approach. Previously, I could catch an issue on the camera, if a customer's code was not working as it should. I would run out to the car wash area, perform a hard reset, and then ask the customer to punch in the code. Overall, this type of instance would delay the car wash line just a couple of minutes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
27. Can you meet the physical expectations of this role including standing for an extended period of time and lifting heavy objects?
How to Answer
The role of a Service Station Attendant can be a physically demanding one, and the interviewer wants assurance that you will be able to meet these requirements without doing any harm to yourself. Your answer should be honest; however, you are under no obligation to give your life's story regarding health or past injuries. Be true to yourself and the hiring authority when it comes to any physical limitations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"Standing, bending, and lifting will be no issue for me. I like to workout and am healthy and active. The more I can move in a day, the happier I am!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am in strong physical condition and can lift heavy objects repeatedly. I have training in safe lifting, as well. When it comes to standing for extended periods, so long as I can take the occasional break, I can remain active throughout my entire shift."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
28. How would you explain the different grades of fuel available at the pumps?
How to Answer
Every service station will have a different offering when it comes to the type and grade of fuel sold. Some gas is more expensive than others because of the oil treatment and the kind of refinement that the gas goes through before being available at the pump.
In North America, the most common types of fuel include regular, mid-grade, and premium. You will see these grades referred to by number, which is an octane reading, usually as 87 for regular, 89 for mid-grade, and 92 for premium. Talk about your understanding of fuel grades and how you would explain these grades to a customer at the pump.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"I would keep things simple and explain that fuel comes in a variety of purities. Your car manufacturer provides you with guidelines based on your cars' performance. That number inside of your gas cap tells you if you need regular, mid-grade, or premium fuel."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"Because the manufacturer of the car determines the ideal fuel grade, if a customer asked me what kind of fuel they needed, I would show them the number on the inside of their gas tank cover. If the number says 87, for instance, I will let them know that the makers of their car recommend regular fuel or higher. This octane rating refers to how the gas will perform. It's a tough concept to explain fully, so I would give the customer a simpler overview like I just described."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
29. Have you ever made a mistake on a routine vehicle maintenance task? What happened, and how did you repair the situation?
How to Answer
We all make mistakes in the workplace; however, what is most important is the action that we take to fix the error. The hiring authority would like to see evidence that you are accountable for your actions. Think of a time when you made a mistake on a vehicle, and what you did to recover. If you do not have a vehicle-specific example, try to think of a time when you owned up to your mistake right away. Be prepared to talk about the lesson that you learned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"With my vehicle, I added the wrong grade of oil during a routine oil change. I ended up draining the oil and trying again with the correct type. It was a silly mistake due to a lack of attention to detail. Now, I triple-check that I have picked up the right kind of oil for my car before performing an at-home oil change."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"When I was first working as a Service Station Attendant, I would accidentally overfill customers' tires because I did not fully understand how to perform the task. I filled tires with are bursts that were much too long, and I was misreading the tire gauge. After a few days on the job, I decided that I had better ask for help and training. It was a bit humbling as it seemed so simple to put air in a tire, but I knew I needed to ask for assistance and learn the proper technique. Today, I am never afraid to ask for help or research a new skill when I identify a gap in my knowledge."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
30. When pumping gasoline, what safety factors should you consider?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be sure that you have the proper approach when it comes to pumping gasoline. When done incorrectly, this task can present many dangers. Talk to the hiring authority about any training you would have in regards to safety around the pumps.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a trained driver, I have also received informal training on best practices at the pump. I am attentive when filling up with fuel and will give the same level of attention to my service station customers. I would appreciate formal training on propane once I begin working for your station."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019
Answer Example
"I understand dangers such as a build-up of static electricity, fire, spillage, and more. Some things to remember are to avoid having the customer exit and re-enter their vehicle while fueling. Also, to never smoke near the pumps. Lastly, never overfill a tank. I have had formal safety training from my previous gas attendant role and am prepared to apply my knowledge to this position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 27th, 2019