Top interview questions to expect

1. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to help a customer.
2. How do you handle difficult customers?
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
4. Why do you want to work at O’Reilly Automotive?
5. What can you tell me about our company culture?
6. Why should we hire you?
7. Do you have any questions for me?

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

The STAR method is a structured and effective way to answer behavioral interview questions. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. When answering a behavioral interview question, start by describing the Situation you were in. Then, explain the Task you were asked to do. Next, describe the Actions you took to complete the task. Finally, explain the Results of your actions.

By using the STAR method, you can provide clear and concise answers to behavioral interview questions that will highlight your skills and abilities.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to help a customer.

Question: Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to help a customer.

Answer: In my previous role at AutoZone, I had a customer come in with a car that wouldn’t start. After some troubleshooting, I determined that the problem was a dead battery. The customer was in a hurry, so I offered to install a new battery for him on the spot. Even though it was close to closing time, I stayed late to make sure the customer’s car was fixed.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s willingness to go above and beyond to help a customer. The candidate also showed initiative by offering to install the new battery even though it was close to closing time.

2. How do you handle difficult customers?

Question: How do you handle difficult customers?

Answer: When I encounter a difficult customer, I first try to understand their point of view. I listen to their concerns and try to see the situation from their perspective. Once I understand their perspective, I try to find a solution that is fair to both of us. If the customer is still upset, I apologize for their inconvenience and try to make things right.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s ability to remain calm and professional under pressure. The candidate also showed empathy for the customer and a willingness to find a solution that is fair to both parties.

3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Question: What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Answer: My strengths include my attention to detail, my ability to work independently, and my strong customer service skills. I am also a quick learner and I am always eager to take on new challenges. One of my weaknesses is that I can sometimes be a perfectionist, which can lead me to spend too much time on a single task. However, I am working on overcoming this weakness by setting realistic expectations for myself and breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s self-awareness and willingness to improve. The candidate also provided specific examples of their strengths and weaknesses, which shows that they have put thought into this question.

4. Why do you want to work at O’Reilly Automotive?

Question: Why do you want to work at O’Reilly Automotive?

Answer: I want to work at O’Reilly Automotive because I am passionate about the automotive industry and I believe that O’Reilly Automotive is a leader in the industry. I am also impressed by O’Reilly Automotive’s commitment to customer service and its focus on employee development. I believe that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to O’Reilly Automotive and I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to the company.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of O’Reilly Automotive and their alignment with the company’s values. The candidate also expressed confidence in their ability to make a positive contribution to the company.

5. What can you tell me about our company culture?

Question: What can you tell me about our company culture?

Answer: I’ve heard that O’Reilly Automotive has a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration. I’ve also heard that the company is committed to providing employees with opportunities for growth and development. I believe that these aspects of O’Reilly Automotive’s culture would be a great fit for me, as I am a team player and I am always looking for ways to improve myself.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of O’Reilly Automotive’s culture and their alignment with the company’s values. The candidate also expressed confidence in their ability to thrive in O’Reilly Automotive’s culture.

6. Why should we hire you?

Question: Why should we hire you?

Answer: I believe that I am the best candidate for this position because I have the skills, experience, and motivation to be successful in this role. I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to O’Reilly Automotive and I am eager to learn and grow within the company. I am also a team player and I am confident that I can build strong relationships with my colleagues.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s confidence in their abilities and their commitment to O’Reilly Automotive. The candidate also highlighted their skills, experience, and motivation, which shows that they have carefully considered this question.

7. Do you have any questions for me?

Question: Do you have any questions for me?

Answer: Yes, I do have a few questions. First, I would like to know more about the company’s plans for future growth. I am also interested in learning more about the opportunities for professional development within the company. Finally, I would like to know what the company’s expectations are for this role.

Why this answer is strong: This answer is strong because it demonstrates the candidate’s interest in the company and their role. The candidate also asked thoughtful questions that show that they have done their research and are genuinely interested in the position.