Interview Questions

Interview Question: What do you know about our company and industry? – Answer Tips

May 5, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

When it comes to the question “What do you know about our company and industry?“, it primarily addresses two of the three key aspects interviewers are trying to assess:

Can you do the job? By demonstrating your knowledge of the company and industry, you showcase your ability to research and understand the context in which you would be working. This shows that you have taken the time to learn about the organization, its products or services, and the market it operates in. This knowledge is essential for performing effectively in the role and adapting to the company’s needs.
Will you fit in? Displaying a comprehensive understanding of the company’s mission, values, and culture helps the interviewer gauge whether your values and work style align with the organization’s. Being well-versed in the company’s culture and values also illustrates your genuine interest in joining the organization, indicating that you are likely to be engaged and committed to contributing positively to the team and workplace environment.

While this question may not directly address the second aspect – “Will you do the job?” – your research and knowledge about the company and industry can indirectly imply your motivation and drive to work for the organization.

How Best To Answer ‘What do you know about our company and industry?’

The best way to structure an answer to the question “What do you know about our company and industry?” is to provide a clear, concise, and well-organized response that demonstrates your research and understanding. Here’s a suggested structure for your answer:

Start with the company’s mission, vision, and values: Briefly describe the company’s purpose, long-term objectives, and the core principles that guide its actions. This shows that you understand what drives the organization and how it aims to differentiate itself in the market.
Discuss the company’s products or services: Provide an overview of the company’s key offerings, highlighting any flagship products, services, or solutions. Make sure to mention the primary target market or customer base the company caters to, showcasing your understanding of the company’s business focus.
Describe the industry landscape: Give an overview of the industry, including key trends, competitors, and any recent developments or changes. This demonstrates your awareness of the broader context in which the company operates and your ability to recognize potential challenges or opportunities.
Mention the company’s culture and achievements: Highlight the company’s work culture, emphasizing any unique aspects or initiatives that make it stand out. Additionally, mention any significant accomplishments or milestones, such as awards, partnerships, or market share gains.
Connect your skills and experiences to the company and industry: Briefly explain how your background, skills, and experiences align with the company’s needs and the industry’s trends. This helps the interviewer see how you would be a valuable addition to the team and contribute to the company’s success.
Show enthusiasm and genuine interest: End your answer by expressing your excitement about the company and the opportunity, making it clear that you are eager to contribute and be a part of the organization’s growth.

Remember to tailor your answer to the specific company and role, using relevant details and examples to make your response as personalized and impactful as possible.

What do you know about our company and industry? – Example answers

Healthcare Example

I understand that your company is focused on providing innovative software solutions for the healthcare industry, with a mission to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare processes. Your core values include collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement, which I believe are essential for success in this field.

Your product portfolio includes electronic health record systems, patient engagement platforms, and data analytics tools, catering to a wide range of healthcare providers, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. This reflects your commitment to improving patient care through technology.

In terms of the industry landscape, I am aware that the healthcare IT sector is rapidly evolving, with emerging trends such as telehealth, artificial intelligence, and data privacy becoming increasingly important. Your company has managed to stay ahead of the competition by continuously adapting to these changes and investing in R&D.

Your company culture emphasizes collaboration, learning, and adaptability, which I find particularly appealing. I have also noted that you have won several industry awards for your innovative solutions and have established strategic partnerships with key players in the healthcare sector.

My background in software development, along with my experience working on healthcare projects, aligns well with your company’s focus and the industry’s trends. I believe my technical skills, combined with my passion for improving healthcare delivery, would enable me to contribute significantly to your team and help drive the success of your products.

I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with your company, as I believe it is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry. I am eager to contribute to your mission and be a part of your ongoing growth and success.

Renewable Energy Example

I understand that your company is a leader in the renewable energy sector, with a mission to accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy sources. Your core values include innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, which are crucial for creating a positive impact on the environment and communities.

Your product and service offerings include solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage solutions, catering to a diverse range of clients such as utilities, businesses, and residential customers. This reflects your commitment to making clean energy accessible and affordable for everyone.

Regarding the industry landscape, I am aware that the renewable energy sector is experiencing rapid growth and transformation, driven by factors such as climate change, technological advancements, and supportive government policies. Your company has successfully navigated this competitive environment by constantly innovating and expanding its portfolio.

Your company culture promotes diversity, teamwork, and continuous learning, which I find particularly attractive. I have also noticed that you have won numerous awards for your innovative products and sustainability initiatives, and have established strategic partnerships with other key players in the renewable energy sector.

My background in project management, along with my experience in the energy industry, aligns well with your company’s focus and the industry’s trends. I believe my skills in managing complex projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and my passion for sustainable development would enable me to contribute significantly to your organization and help drive the success of your projects.

I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with your company, as I believe it is at the forefront of driving positive change in the energy sector. I am eager to contribute to your mission and be a part of your ongoing growth and success.

SEO Example

33 Operations Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

May 5, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

A quick Google search reveals that the average salary for an Operations Manager in the UK ranges between £45,000 and £60,000. In the US, the average salary for an Operations Manager position is around $80,000.

Operations management skills are in high demand, which is reflected in the relatively high salaries offered in this field.

However, the lucrative salaries also mean that there is a significant amount of competition for each role. If you possess the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications, you should be able to attract interest from organizations looking to hire Operations Managers.

But having the skills, experience, and qualifications alone isn’t sufficient to secure the job. You also need to be able to effectively communicate these to the hiring manager.

In this article, we’ll discuss how you can excel in an Operations Manager interview and secure this sought-after role. First, we’ll provide some tips for the interview itself, followed by the best approach to take when answering Operations Manager questions (and what not to do!). Lastly, we’ll explore some of the most common interview questions you can expect to encounter.

Ready? Let’s dive in…

Contents

1 Operations Manager Interview Advice
2 How Best to Answer Operations Manager Interview Questions
3 What You Should Not Do When Answering Operations Manager Questions
4 33 Operations Manager Interview Question and Answers
5 Generic Job Interview Questions You May Be Asked In An Ops Manager Interview

Operations Manager Interview Advice

Draw from your experience. This applies even if you have never held an Operations Manager position before. An Operations Manager is responsible for numerous tasks, primarily overseeing the day-to-day operations and ensuring the organization’s efficiency and effectiveness. You don’t need to have held an Operations Manager title previously to have participated in similar activities. When answering questions, emphasize your relevant experiences.

Know your audience. Always research the organization you are interviewing for. Additionally, take the time to research the interviewer and the hiring manager (if they are different individuals). Your goal is to impress the person making the hiring decision, so you should research them specifically to understand their preferences and what they are looking for in a new employee.

Highlight your problem-solving skills. As an Operations Manager, you’ll be faced with numerous challenges and unexpected situations. Show the interviewer that you have the ability to think on your feet, analyze problems, and come up with effective solutions. Share examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated these skills.

Showcase your leadership and teamwork abilities. An Operations Manager must be able to lead a team and work well with others to ensure smooth operations. Emphasize your leadership qualities and your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with team members. Provide examples of when you successfully managed a team or worked closely with colleagues to achieve a common goal.

Stay updated on industry trends and best practices. Being knowledgeable about the latest trends and best practices in operations management can give you an edge during the interview. Demonstrate your understanding of the industry and how you stay informed about new developments. Mention any conferences, webinars, or relevant articles that you’ve recently engaged with to show your dedication to professional growth.

How Best to Answer Operations Manager Interview Questions

Unless the question you are asked is a straightforward ‘yes or no’ style question, you’ll need to learn to describe, expand, and elaborate on your answers. The best way to do this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Answers using this method follow the structure below:

B – Belief – What are your thoughts and feelings with regard to the subject matter? As an Operations Manager, you should have your own set of philosophies and approaches to managing operations and improving efficiency that you tailor to each situation.

S – Situation – Briefly explain the scenario that was taking place. Try not to spend too much time describing the situation. The bulk of your answer should focus on you and what you did, so keep the situation simple to understand and even simpler to describe.

T – Task – What was your role in the action? Most of the time, it’s best to demonstrate an active rather than passive role in the encounter. As you are applying for an Operations Manager position, the situation you describe should involve you taking charge of managing the day-to-day operations within an organization.

A – Activity (or action) – What did you do? Detail the steps you took and why you took them. This should comprise the majority of your response.

R – Result – How did everything turn out? If possible, use figures to illustrate the outcome (e.g., efficiency increased by 20%, costs reduced by 15%, etc.).

Remember that the B-STAR technique is descriptive, not prescriptive. You don’t need to strictly adhere to this flow; go with what works best for your answers and allows you to effectively convey your point and showcase your experience.

What You Should Not Do When Answering Operations Manager Questions

Do not avoid the question: When answering questions related to the Operations Manager position, ensure that you address the query directly and provide a relevant response. Avoiding the question will give the impression that you lack the necessary knowledge or experience to handle the issue.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked): Focus on showcasing your successes and achievements as an Operations Manager. While it is essential to learn from failures, highlighting them during an interview might raise concerns about your ability to effectively manage operations.

Do not downplay the situation: When discussing a situation where you demonstrated your skills as an Operations Manager, be honest about the challenges you faced. Downplaying the situation might make it seem as though your achievements were not as significant as they actually were.

Do not overhype the situation: Conversely, avoid exaggerating the difficulties you encountered. Maintain a balanced approach when describing the situation and your role in resolving it, as overstating the challenges may come across as insincere.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter: If you are asked about a situation or skill you have not encountered, focus on your transferable skills and experiences that are relevant to the Operations Manager role. Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt to new situations.

Do not reject the premise of the question: Even if you disagree with the assumptions or context of a question, answer it in a way that demonstrates your understanding and ability to handle different perspectives. Rejecting the premise outright may be perceived as inflexibility or unwillingness to consider alternative viewpoints.

Do not have a passive role in the situation: When providing examples from your experience, ensure that you present yourself as an active participant who took the initiative and made a difference in the situation. Passive roles may not effectively demonstrate your capabilities as an Operations Manager.

Do not give a one-sentence answer: Elaborate on your responses to provide context and detail about your experiences and the outcomes you achieved. One-sentence answers may not fully convey your abilities and accomplishments as an Operations Manager.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action: While providing context is important, avoid spending too much time describing the situation at the expense of discussing your actions and the results you achieved. Focus on demonstrating your skills and contributions as an Operations Manager.

33 Operations Manager Interview Question and Answers

For more Operations Manager Interview Question and Answers check out our full guide here

Can you briefly describe your background and experience as an Operations Manager?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager):
In my previous role as an Operations Manager at XYZ Company, I managed a team of 30 employees and was responsible for streamlining processes and improving efficiency. My primary tasks involved overseeing daily operations, managing budgets, and leading cross-functional projects to enhance productivity. Over the course of five years, I successfully reduced operational costs by 20% and increased overall efficiency by 15%.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager):
Although I haven’t held the title of Operations Manager, I have spent the last four years as a Team Lead in the operations department at ABC Corporation. I supervised a team of 10 employees and was responsible for coordinating workflow, implementing process improvements, and managing schedules. During my time in this role, I consistently met or exceeded our department’s KPIs, and successfully led a project to automate certain processes, which resulted in a 10% reduction in processing time.

What motivated you to pursue a career in operations management?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager): I have always been drawn to the dynamic nature of operations management and the opportunity to drive tangible improvements within an organization. My passion lies in analyzing processes, identifying areas for optimization, and implementing changes that have a direct impact on efficiency and productivity. Throughout my career, I have enjoyed collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals and have found great satisfaction in seeing the results of our efforts.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager): During my time working in the operations department, I discovered a passion for analyzing systems and processes, identifying inefficiencies, and developing solutions to improve performance. I realized that the role of an Operations Manager would allow me to leverage my skills and experiences to drive positive change across the organization. I am excited about the opportunity to lead teams, implement process improvements, and have a lasting impact on the overall success of the company.

How do you define success as an Operations Manager?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager): For me, success as an Operations Manager is measured through the continuous improvement of business processes, increased efficiency, and the satisfaction of both employees and customers. It involves meeting or exceeding key performance indicators, ensuring seamless cross-departmental collaboration, and fostering a work environment that supports growth and development. Ultimately, success is about creating lasting value for the organization and contributing to its long-term objectives.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager): I believe success as an Operations Manager is achieved by effectively managing resources, optimizing processes, and continually improving the efficiency of operations. It involves setting and meeting clear KPIs, ensuring a high level of employee engagement, and maintaining open lines of communication between departments. Success also means being proactive in identifying and addressing potential bottlenecks or challenges, fostering a positive work environment, and delivering excellent customer service.

Can you provide an example of a challenging operational issue you faced and how you resolved it?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager): In my previous role, I encountered a situation where our production line was experiencing frequent delays, negatively impacting our ability to meet customer deadlines. I analyzed the process, identified bottlenecks, and implemented a new workflow that redistributed tasks more evenly across team members. Additionally, I introduced regular progress monitoring and reporting to ensure timely interventions when necessary. As a result, we were able to reduce delays by 80% and significantly improve customer satisfaction.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager): While working as a Team Lead, I faced a challenge where our department was consistently falling short of meeting its monthly targets. I took the initiative to conduct a thorough analysis of our processes and discovered that a lack of standardized procedures was causing inefficiencies. I worked with my team to develop and implement clear SOPs, which streamlined our operations and improved overall productivity. Within three months, we not only met our targets but exceeded them by 15%.

How do you manage competing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager): To manage competing priorities and deadlines, I rely on effective time management, delegation, and communication. I start by assessing the urgency and importance of each task, then create a prioritized action plan. I delegate tasks to appropriate team members, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support. Regular progress check-ins help me stay on top of ongoing tasks and make adjustments as needed. By maintaining open communication with my team and stakeholders, we can work together to address any unforeseen challenges and meet our deadlines.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager): In my current role, I frequently juggle multiple tasks and deadlines. I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, and create a detailed action plan that outlines the steps required to complete each task. I also delegate responsibilities to team members, making sure they have the necessary support and resources to succeed. Regular check-ins and open communication help me monitor progress, address any challenges, and make adjustments as needed. This approach has consistently allowed me to meet or exceed deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.

How do you ensure clear communication within your team and across departments?

Answer (Experienced Operations Manager): To ensure clear communication, I establish a culture of openness and transparency within my team. I encourage team members to share their ideas, concerns, and updates on ongoing projects. I also hold regular team meetings and one-on-one check-ins to keep everyone informed and aligned with our objectives. To facilitate cross-departmental communication, I build strong relationships with other managers and stakeholders, create channels for information-sharing, and involve relevant parties in decision-making processes. This approach has helped me maintain a well-informed and collaborative work environment.

Answer (Aspiring Operations Manager): Clear communication is essential for effective teamwork and collaboration. In my current role, I strive to create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns. I hold regular team meetings, provide updates on ongoing projects, and schedule one-on-one check-ins with team members to address individual concerns. To foster cross-departmental communication, I actively engage with colleagues from other departments, participate in interdepartmental meetings, and share relevant information to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Can you describe your experience in managing budgets and controlling costs?
View answer in our full guide

How do you monitor and evaluate the performance of your team members?
View answer in our full guide

What strategies do you use to improve operational efficiency and productivity?
View answer in our full guide

How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within your team?
View answer in our full guide

Can you provide an example of a time when you had to implement a major organizational change? How did you manage the transition?
View answer in our full guide

How do you stay informed about industry trends and best practices in operations management?
View answer in our full guide

How do you approach capacity planning and resource allocation?
View answer in our full guide

What experience do you have in developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs)?
View answer in our full guide

How do you manage risks and ensure business continuity in your operations?
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Can you describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information? What was the outcome?
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What methods do you use to track and measure key performance indicators (KPIs) in your operations?
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How do you balance the need for innovation with maintaining stability in your operations?
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How do you approach vendor selection and management?
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Can you provide an example of a successful process improvement initiative you led?
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How do you ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal policies?
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What strategies do you use to motivate and engage your team members?
View answer in our full guide

Can you describe a time when you had to manage a significant increase or decrease in operational demand?
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How do you handle performance issues within your team? Can you provide an example?
View answer in our full guide

What experience do you have in managing cross-functional projects or initiatives?
View answer in our full guide

How do you approach quality assurance and quality control in your operations?
View answer in our full guide

How do you prioritize safety in your operations management practices?
View answer in our full guide

For more Operations Manager Interview Question and Answers check out our full guide here

Generic Job Interview Questions You May Be Asked In An Ops Manager Interview

How Did You Prepare For This Interview?

“I believe that it’s incredibly difficult to overcome a bad first impression. Because of this I always strive to never make one. That’s why for important meetings, or interviews like this, I make a clear plan of what I want to get from the meeting and outline the steps I need to take to achieve that goal.

So when I received the call about scheduling this interview the first thing I did was research your offices. As you are based in an area of town I am not familiar with I drove by here after work one evening just to make sure I knew the way. I also checked Google Maps to see what the traffic would be like at this time. Nothing worse than being late sitting in traffic after all.

I actually have a contact who works in your finance department, Claire, we were colleagues in the place I am currently working. I reached out to her to see if there was anything she could tell me about the interview process. We had spoken before about the company as a whole and how she talks about the company is one of the reasons I applied.

Following our chat I went through all of my work achievements and made sure they fully encompassed everything I have accomplished in my career.

I’m glad I took the time to prepare as I did because there was a lot of traffic so it was good I knew to expect that. Also talking with Claire helped jog my memory on a project we both worked on a few years back delivering a piece of financial software that I believe your company is in the process of deploying.”

Check out our full post on how to answer this question

Tell me about a time when you needed to communicate bad news to a colleague or stakeholder?

“I believe that bad news is best delivered in person and discretely, where it is responsible to do so. I don’t particularly relish giving bad news (I suppose not many do) so I often try to resolve the situation in advance so the bad news never needs to be given.

Obviously though that isn’t possible all of the time. For example in a previous role I managed a team of complaint handlers when word came down from senior management that we were offshoring a large part of our process and this meant layoffs of nearly 40% of the department.

I tried to go to bat for my team and show how our quality and production scores were the highest around and unlikely to be replicated using our offshore colleagues, but the decision had been made and was purely cost driven.

It was my job to determine which members of my team would be let go and which would stay.

We had all joined the department together on the same contract so there was no element of seniority that needed to be accounted for. Instead I devised a balanced scorecard type of approach, ranking each team member against the department’s relevant KPIs (quality, production, skills).

Once I had my list I booked one-on-ones with all of my team members as close together as possible, starting with the colleagues who would be staying. With the colleagues who were being let go I got straight to the point and told them the company would be terminating their contract. I allowed them to ask any questions they wanted and informed them that I would be around for any help they needed in looking for a new role.

During the meetings 2 of the colleagues I wanted to keep informed me that they were planning to leave soon anyway and suggested that they would leave now instead freeing up room for other colleagues to stay.

In the end I had to tell 6 members of my team that they were being let go. They were all understanding of the situation and were grateful that I offered to help them look for new roles.

Going forward if I were to be in the same position I would have gone to the meetings with some open positions that I would recommend the colleagues apply for”

Check out our full post on how to answer this question

Have You Ever Had To Manage A Difficult Employee? – Example answer

“Yes on a number of occasions. My style of management is such that I believe that if you ensure your employees have all of the required training and all the necessary resources at their disposal that you can take a step back and they will flourish on their own. I do not believe in overly micromanaging my team. I have an open door policy and I have regular catchups with my team members and I trust that they will get the job done.

By and large this works pretty well in my current role. However you do sometimes get the occasional team member who requires more supervision than others.

One such person was new to my team and soon after their training and introductory period finished their productivity dropped week by week. At the start the colleague seemed to be at the same level as some of the more experienced members of the team but over time his output dropped until he was comfortably the worst performer all around.

I spent the next week or so monitoring this colleague more closely to understand where any issues were arising. I noticed that he was spending large amounts of time being unproductive and not completing tasks.

I raised this with him during our weekly one-on-one and he admitted how he didn’t feel much motivation to complete more work and found it difficult stay focused when there seemed to just be more work to come.

I took a few actions on the back of this meeting, all of which I cleared with my management team ahead of time.

I put the colleague on an action plan that monitored his output on a daily and weekly basis. This would be reviewed by myself along with the colleague and with our director. It was stressed to the colleague that if there were no changes after a month that we would be terminating his position with the company.

Also as a show of transparency and in an attempt at motivation by target setting we started releasing productivity reports for the whole team so they know how each team member is performing.

The action plan proved to be the motivator that was required for the ‘difficult employee’ as soon after we started the action plans his output was nearing the top of the team charts. The team productivity reports also became a big success and saw improvements across the whole team. Senior management were pleased and have taken the action to talk about a bonus structure to go along with the performance reports which is still in the pipeline.”

Check out our full post on how to answer this question

How do you handle disagreements within your team?

“As Product Manager at X company it was my responsibility to prioritise the backlog of tasks. The way things worked in our organisation was that any stakeholder could raise an item to add to the backlog, then as a team we would discuss in which order it would be best that they were worked and deployed.

Ultimately however the final decision on priority lay with myself.

As you can imagine with so many different areas of the business raises items, each with their own agendas and goals the backlog meetings would often end with a lot of disagreement

One such occasion we had two business areas both asking us to deploy a change to our product and both were asking for the change to be deployed in the next sprint. Unfortunately we only had the dev resource to implement the one change in this cycle.

The backlog call became heated between the two representing colleagues and I was forced to cut the meeting short to let cooler heads prevail.

After the meeting I sat with both colleagues to further understand the urgency behind both changes. Asking them to describe the benefits of the change and also the drawbacks of waiting until the next cycle.

Once I had this information in hand it was clear to me which change would be most beneficial to the business. I invited both colleagues into a meeting where I had compiled the information into a presentation deck with a few charts showing the resources available within the product team and the relative benefits of each change.

Explaining it this way allowed both colleagues to fully appreciate the restrictions that were on my team and also the comparative benefits of each change.

Both colleagues left the meeting happy with the outcome and both changes were pushed into production in the next 2 sprints”

Check out our post on how to answer this question

Tell me about a time when you had to convince others to put in ‘the hard work’

“I always feel that when you have a good team working for you that often you don’t need to convince anyone to get the job done, that’s why I believe in a strong recruitment policy of only employing the best and maintaining high standards within the organisation.

Of course there will always be times when a little more motivation is needed. One such occasion happened recently. One of our most valued customers asked if we could provide delivery on one of our products a month earlier than originally scoped.

The organisation agreed to ‘try our best’ when it came to this request but made the customer aware of the challenges of this new date.

The challenge was given to me and my team to try and achieve this new date. Ensuring open communication with the team is important to me so the first thing I did was meet with my team to ensure that they all knew of the new challenge.

We looked at the obstacles that lay in the team’s way and I removed them where practical.

To show the team that we really appreciated the effort they were putting in we made each Friday pizza day paid for by the organisation and told each team member that they would each receive a paid day off once the product was delivered (regardless of whether the new deadline was met or not).

The team were extremely motivated by this and with nothing stopping them we managed to deliver the customer their product within the new timeframes. The customer was thrilled with the service we provided and actually sent across a week’s supply of office fruit as thanks for helping them turn things around under short notice.”

Check out our full post on how to answer this question

What is your biggest weakness?

“My memory is my biggest weakness. Quite frankly it sucks. I will be told something in the morning and will have completely forgotten having had the conversation by the afternoon. It held me back a lot in school were it seemed like a lot of exam preparation was just cramming as much info into your head as possible prior to an exam. I have found a good system though that works for me. I write lots of notes and set myself lots of reminders. I am not sure if you can see since we’re on video but I have been taking notes throughout this meeting as well!”

Check out our full post on how to answer this question

Interview Question: How do you handle stress and pressure? – Answer Tips

May 5, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

For instance, the interview question, “How do you handle stress and pressure?” aims to assess multiple aspects of your suitability for the job. Primarily, it falls under the first category, i.e., “Can you do the job?” as it seeks to evaluate your ability to perform under challenging circumstances that are often encountered in the workplace. Handling stress and pressure effectively is a crucial skill, as it ensures that you can maintain productivity and deliver results even when faced with tight deadlines or high-stakes situations.

Additionally, this question can also touch upon the second aspect, “Will you do the job?” By gauging your motivation and resilience in the face of adversity, the interviewer can determine whether you possess the necessary drive to push through tough times and remain committed to your responsibilities.

Finally, the way you respond to this question may also provide insights into the third aspect, “Will you fit in?” Your approach to managing stress and pressure can reveal your emotional intelligence, adaptability, and interpersonal skills, all of which contribute to your compatibility with the company culture and your potential to thrive within the team dynamic.

How Best To Answer ‘How do you handle stress and pressure?’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Using the B-STAR technique, you can effectively answer the interview question, “How do you handle stress and pressure?” while providing a well-rounded response. Here’s how you can apply the B-STAR method to address this specific question:

B – Belief: Express your belief in the importance of managing stress and pressure in the workplace, and how it contributes to overall productivity and personal well-being.

S – Situation: Briefly describe a scenario where you faced a stressful and high-pressure situation at work. Keep the description simple and focused, allowing you to emphasize your role and actions.

T – Task: Explain your role in this particular situation and how you were responsible for handling the stress and pressure to ensure successful outcomes.

A – Activity (or action): Describe the specific steps you took to manage the stress and pressure in this situation. Explain your thought process, the strategies you employed, and how you adapted to overcome challenges. This part of your answer should be the most detailed and informative, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and resilience.

R – Result: Conclude by sharing the outcome of your actions, highlighting any quantifiable results or improvements (e.g., meeting a tight deadline, improving team morale, or increasing productivity). This demonstrates the effectiveness of your stress and pressure management skills and how they positively impacted the situation.

By utilizing the B-STAR method, you can create a comprehensive and engaging response to the interview question, “How do you handle stress and pressure?” This approach allows you to showcase your experience, skills, and adaptability while conveying your ability to succeed in challenging situations.

Remember though that the B-STAR technique is descriptive not prescriptive. You do not need to follow this flow strictly, go with what is best for your answers and that will allow you to put your point across and show your experience the best.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

How do you handle stress and pressure? – Example answers

Project Lead Example

B – Belief: I firmly believe that managing stress and pressure is crucial for maintaining productivity, ensuring quality work, and promoting personal well-being in any work environment.

S – Situation: At my previous job, I was part of a team responsible for launching a new product within a very tight deadline. We faced multiple unexpected setbacks, and the pressure was mounting as the deadline approached.

T – Task: As the project lead, it was my responsibility to ensure the team stayed on track, met the deadline, and delivered a high-quality product while managing the stress and pressure we were all experiencing.

A – Activity (or action): To handle the stress and pressure, I implemented a few strategies. First, I prioritized tasks and delegated them based on each team member’s strengths and availability, ensuring a more efficient workflow. Second, I conducted daily check-ins with the team to monitor progress, address any challenges, and provide support. Additionally, I encouraged open communication and fostered a positive atmosphere, where everyone felt comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas. Lastly, I practiced stress management techniques myself, such as taking breaks and practicing mindfulness, to maintain a clear and focused mindset.

R – Result: By effectively managing stress and pressure, our team was able to meet the tight deadline and successfully launch the new product. As a result, the product received positive feedback from both internal stakeholders and customers, leading to a 20% increase in sales during the first quarter. Furthermore, the team’s morale remained high, and the experience strengthened our ability to collaborate and tackle future challenges.

Customer Service Representative Example

As a customer service representative, I believe that managing stress and pressure is essential to provide excellent service and maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with challenging customer interactions or high call volumes.

There was a situation where our company faced a significant system outage that affected a large number of customers. Due to this issue, our call center was inundated with calls from frustrated customers seeking assistance and resolution.

In this challenging scenario, my role was to handle incoming calls, provide empathetic support, and find solutions to customer issues, all while managing the stress and pressure of the increased call volume and difficult interactions.

To effectively handle the situation, I first made sure to stay organized and focused by keeping a detailed log of each call and the customer’s concerns. I also practiced active listening, ensuring that each customer felt heard and understood. To maintain a calm demeanor, I took deep breaths and reminded myself to stay patient and solution-oriented. Additionally, during breaks, I practiced brief relaxation techniques to re-energize and refocus.

As a result of these efforts, I was able to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction during this challenging time, with positive feedback from customers appreciating the empathetic support and effective solutions provided. Moreover, the experience allowed me to further develop my resilience and adaptability, ultimately improving my overall performance as a customer service representative.

Software Engineer Example

Interview Question: Describe a successful day, what made it successful? – Answer Tips

May 4, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

Considering the interview question, “Describe a successful day, what made it successful?” it can be seen that this question touches on all three aspects the interviewer is looking for:

Can you do the job? By asking you to describe a successful day, the interviewer is giving you the opportunity to highlight your skills and experiences. Your response should showcase the tasks you have successfully completed, the challenges you have overcome, and the expertise you have gained that would enable you to perform well in the position.
Will you do the job? Your description of a successful day will also reveal your drive and motivation to get the job done. The interviewer will be interested in understanding how you approach your work, set priorities, and stay focused on achieving your goals. Your answer should demonstrate that you are committed to delivering results and that you have the determination to excel in the role.
Will you fit in? The way you describe your successful day can also provide insights into your personality, work style, and how you might fit within the company’s culture. By sharing examples that showcase your adaptability, teamwork, or communication skills, you can demonstrate that you are a likeable candidate who would be a valuable addition to the team.

How Best To Answer ‘Describe a successful day, what made it successful?’

Using the B-STAR technique, you can effectively answer the interview question, “Describe a successful day, what made it successful?” while providing a comprehensive response that highlights your skills, motivation, and cultural fit. Here’s how you can adapt the B-STAR method to this question:

B – Belief – Share your thoughts and feelings about what constitutes a successful day at work. This could include factors such as productivity, collaboration, or overcoming challenges.

S – Situation – Describe a specific day or situation where you experienced success at work. Keep the description brief and easy to understand, focusing on setting the context for your actions.

T – Task – Explain your role in the situation and what you were responsible for. Emphasize your active involvement in making the day successful, whether that means leading a team, solving a problem, or completing a project.

A – Activity (or action) – Detail the steps you took during that day and why you took them. Explain how you prioritized tasks, collaborated with colleagues, or utilized your skills to achieve success. This part should make up the majority of your response.

R – Result – Describe the outcome of your actions, ideally using quantifiable metrics to illustrate your success (e.g., increased sales by 15%, reduced project delivery time by two weeks, or improved team efficiency by 20%).

While the B-STAR method provides a useful framework, remember that it is descriptive, not prescriptive. Feel free to adapt the structure to best showcase your experiences and effectively convey your qualifications for the job.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Describe a successful day, what made it successful? – Example answers

Project Manager Example

I believe that a successful day is when I’m able to manage my time effectively, collaborate with my team, and achieve meaningful results that contribute to the overall success of the organization.

There was a day when our team was facing a tight deadline to submit a critical project proposal. My role as the project manager was to ensure that we completed the proposal on time while maintaining high quality and addressing all the client’s requirements.

To achieve this, I started by prioritizing the tasks and delegating responsibilities based on each team member’s expertise. I also set up checkpoints throughout the day to monitor progress and address any issues or roadblocks. Additionally, I maintained open lines of communication with both the team and the client, ensuring that everyone was on the same page and aware of the expectations.

As a result of our collaborative efforts and my proactive management, we submitted the project proposal ahead of the deadline. The client was extremely satisfied with our work and awarded us the contract, which ultimately led to a 30% increase in revenue for our department.

Marketing Specialist Example

I believe that a successful day is when I can effectively use my skills, solve problems, and contribute to the growth of the organization, all while maintaining a positive attitude and fostering a supportive work environment.

There was a day when our marketing team faced an unexpected issue with our email campaign tool, which threatened to delay a crucial product launch. As the marketing specialist, my role was to find a solution that would enable us to deliver the email campaign on time without compromising its quality or effectiveness.

To tackle this challenge, I first assessed the issue and determined that it was due to a software glitch. I reached out to our email campaign tool’s customer support and described the problem in detail. While waiting for their response, I researched alternative methods for deploying the email campaign, in case the issue couldn’t be resolved promptly.

Fortunately, customer support provided a workaround that I implemented immediately. I then tested the campaign thoroughly to ensure that it was functioning properly before deployment. Additionally, I shared my learnings with the rest of the team to help prevent similar issues in the future.

As a result, we were able to deliver the email campaign on schedule, which led to a successful product launch with a 20% increase in leads compared to our previous campaigns. Our team’s ability to adapt and resolve the issue quickly also earned praise from management, demonstrating our resilience and problem-solving abilities.

Software Developer Example

Interview Question: What do you enjoy doing the least? – Answer Tips

May 3, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

1 – Can you do the job? This question can help the interviewer identify whether the tasks you dislike or find challenging are critical to the role. If your least favorite tasks align with the primary responsibilities of the position, it may indicate that you’re not the best fit for the job. However, if these tasks are only a minor part of the role, your answer could provide insight into your potential areas for growth and development.

2 – Will you do the job? By understanding what you enjoy the least, the interviewer can gauge your motivation and commitment to handle less appealing aspects of the job. Every role has its less enjoyable tasks, and demonstrating your willingness to tackle them effectively despite your personal preferences can show your dedication to getting the job done.

3 – Will you fit in? Your answer to this question can reveal aspects of your personality and work style, which can help the interviewer determine if you’re a good fit for the company culture. For example, if you dislike working in a highly collaborative environment and the company prioritizes teamwork, there might be a mismatch in expectations. Alternatively, if your least favorite tasks involve working in isolation and the company offers a collaborative atmosphere, it might be an indication that you’ll fit in well with the team dynamics.

How Best To Answer ‘What do you enjoy doing the least?’

Answers using this method follow the below structure:

B – Belief – What are your thoughts and feelings with regard to the subject matter? In this case, discuss your perspective on the least enjoyable tasks, recognizing that every job has its ups and downs.

S – Situation – What was going on? Briefly explain a scenario where you had to perform the task you enjoy the least. Keep the situation simple to understand and easy to describe, as the focus should be on your role and actions.

T – Task – What was your role in the action? Describe your responsibility related to the task you dislike and any challenges you faced. Make sure to present yourself as actively engaged in addressing the issue.

A – Activity (or action) – What did you do? Detail the steps you took to complete the task despite your lack of enjoyment. Explain your approach to staying motivated and focused, and any strategies you used to overcome your disinterest. This should take up the bulk of your time answering the question.

R – Result – How did everything end up? Share the outcome of your actions, focusing on any positive results or lessons learned. Use figures if possible (e.g., completed the task ahead of schedule, improved efficiency by 15%, gained new skills, etc.).

Remember though that the B-STAR technique is descriptive, not prescriptive. You do not need to follow this flow strictly. Adapt the structure to your answers and experiences, allowing you to communicate your point effectively and showcase your capabilities.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

What do you enjoy doing the least? – Example answers

Financial Analyst Examples

I believe it’s important to stay adaptable and open to various tasks in a work environment. However, I’ve found that tasks requiring extensive data entry tend to be less enjoyable for me. In my previous role as a financial analyst, our team was responsible for updating and maintaining a large database containing financial information on our company’s clients.

My responsibility was to input new client data, update existing records, and ensure the accuracy of the information. This required a significant amount of time spent on data entry, which I found to be monotonous. Despite the repetitive nature of the task, I understood its importance in maintaining accurate records for our company.

To make the process more engaging, I set personal goals for efficiency and accuracy, and I took short breaks to stay focused. I also listened to music or podcasts to keep my mind stimulated during the data entry process. Additionally, I developed a system to double-check my work to minimize errors.

By employing these strategies, I was able to maintain a high level of accuracy and efficiency in my data entry tasks. My efforts contributed to an overall improvement in our team’s record-keeping, and I even received positive feedback from my supervisor for my dedication and accuracy. This experience taught me the value of staying motivated and finding ways to make even the least enjoyable tasks more engaging and productive.

Customer Service Example

In my previous role as a customer service representative, I found that dealing with rude or irate customers was the least enjoyable aspect of my job. I understand that customer satisfaction is crucial to the success of any business, and addressing customer concerns is an essential part of my role.

During a particularly busy period, we had a high volume of calls from customers who were experiencing issues with their orders. I was responsible for handling these calls, resolving problems, and ensuring that customers were satisfied with the outcome.

To handle challenging interactions with upset customers, I focused on remaining calm and empathetic, actively listening to their concerns, and finding the best possible solution to address their needs. I made it a point to treat each customer with respect, regardless of their demeanor, and focused on the bigger picture of maintaining a positive relationship with them.

As a result of my approach, I was able to successfully resolve the majority of customer issues and received commendations from my supervisor for my professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction. Additionally, our team’s overall customer satisfaction ratings improved during this time. This experience reinforced the importance of staying composed and patient, even in the face of difficult situations, and taught me valuable skills in conflict resolution and customer service.

Graphic Designer Example

Interview Question: How do you stay motivated? – Answer Tips

May 3, 2023 by Mike Jacobsen

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

When an interviewer asks you, “How do you stay motivated?” they are primarily trying to assess if you will do the job by understanding your drive and motivation to complete tasks and meet goals. This question also gives them insights into your work ethic and how well you can manage challenges, which relates to the first point, can you do the job.

In addition, your response to this question can also provide some information about how well you will fit in with the company culture, as different organizations value different motivational styles and coping mechanisms. A response that aligns with the company’s values and culture will showcase your compatibility with the team.

For example, if you respond by saying, “I stay motivated by setting SMART goals and regularly reviewing my progress, as well as seeking feedback from my colleagues and manager,” you demonstrate your ability to stay focused and committed to achieving results (point 2), your strategic approach to goal-setting (point 1), and your openness to collaboration and communication (point 3). By addressing all three aspects, you effectively show the interviewer that you can do the job, will do the job, and will fit in with the company’s culture.

How Best To Answer ‘How do you stay motivated?’

When answering the interview question “How do you stay motivated?”, you can use the B-STAR technique to structure your response effectively. This method helps you to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded answer, showcasing your beliefs, actions, and results related to motivation. Here’s how you can apply B-STAR to this question:

B – Belief: Share your thoughts and feelings about motivation and its importance in achieving professional success.

Example: “I believe that staying motivated is crucial for success in any role. It helps maintain focus and productivity, allowing us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.”

S – Situation: Briefly describe a scenario where you needed to stay motivated to complete a task or achieve a goal. Keep this description concise, setting the context for your actions.

Example: “In my previous job, I was assigned to a complex project with a tight deadline, which required coordinating with multiple teams and stakeholders.”

T – Task: Explain your role and responsibilities in the situation, focusing on your active involvement in the task.

Example: “My task was to lead the project, ensuring all teams collaborated effectively and met the deadlines, while maintaining high-quality results.”

A – Activity (or action): Detail the steps you took to stay motivated and the reasons behind your actions. This part should be the main focus of your answer.

Example: “To stay motivated, I set clear, achievable milestones for each stage of the project. I also maintained open communication with all team members, encouraging them to share their ideas and concerns. I took regular breaks to recharge and used productivity tools to stay organized.”

R – Result: Conclude your answer by sharing the outcome of your actions, ideally using figures or tangible measures of success.

Example: “As a result of my motivation and leadership, we completed the project two weeks ahead of schedule, and it exceeded the client’s expectations. The project’s success led to a 15% increase in revenue for the company.”

Using the B-STAR technique, you can describe, expand, and elaborate on your answers, ensuring a comprehensive and effective response to the question of how you stay motivated. This method allows you to present your experiences and skills in the best possible light, demonstrating your motivation and drive to the interviewer.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

How do you stay motivated? – Example answer

Customer Service Example

“I believe that staying motivated in a customer service role is essential for providing excellent support and ensuring customer satisfaction, which contributes to the overall success of the company. At my previous job as a customer service representative, our team experienced a sudden surge in customer inquiries due to a software issue that affected many users. My responsibility was to provide timely and effective support to the affected customers, addressing their concerns and helping them resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

To stay motivated during this challenging period, I focused on the positive impact I could make on the customers’ experiences. I proactively sought feedback from my supervisor and peers to continuously improve my problem-solving skills. I also organized my workload using a ticket management system and prioritized tasks based on urgency. To maintain a positive attitude, I celebrated small victories, such as resolving a particularly difficult case or receiving a thank-you message from a satisfied customer.

As a result of my motivation and dedication, I was able to resolve customer issues more efficiently, which led to a 20% decrease in average response time during the surge. Additionally, my efforts contributed to a 10% increase in customer satisfaction ratings, and I received recognition from my manager for maintaining high-quality support during a challenging time.”