Top interview questions to expect

Top 7 questions to help you dominate your Summit Materials behavioral interview:
1. Can you describe a time when you faced a difficult challenge and how you overcame it?
2. Tell me about a project or task where you took initiative and achieved significant results.
3. How do you handle working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines?
4. What methods or strategies do you use to prioritize and manage your workload?
5. Give me an example of a conflict you had with a colleague and how you resolved it.
6. How do you stay updated with industry trends and advancements related to your field?
7. Describe a situation where you received constructive feedback and how you reacted to it.

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

STAR Framework Explained:

– STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result.
– The STAR framework is a structured method for answering behavioral interview questions.
– It provides a clear and concise way to communicate your experiences and skills to the interviewer.

– Situation: Briefly describe the situation or context in which the event or task took place.
– Task: Explain the specific task or responsibility you were assigned or had to complete.
– Action: Describe the actions you took to address the situation or complete the task. Highlight your specific contributions and skills.
– Result: Conclude with the positive outcome or result achieved as a consequence of your actions. Emphasize the impact or value you added.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Q: Can you describe a time when you faced a difficult challenge and how you overcame it?

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In my previous role at XYZ Company, we faced a sudden surge in customer inquiries and complaints due to a product defect.”
– Task: “As the customer service lead, I had to manage the influx of calls, emails, and social media messages efficiently and address customer concerns promptly.”
– Action: “I immediately formed a cross-functional team, involving technical support, quality assurance, and marketing, to investigate the issue and develop a comprehensive solution.”
– Result: “Through effective communication, collaboration, and timely updates to customers, we were able to resolve the problem within a week, significantly reducing the number of complaints and maintaining customer satisfaction.”

Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s problem-solving skills, leadership, and ability to work under pressure.

2. Q: Tell me about a project or task where you took initiative and achieved significant results.

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “At my previous company, we were tasked with developing a new marketing campaign to promote our latest product.”
– Task: “As a marketing specialist, I took the initiative to conduct thorough market research, analyze competitor strategies, and identify potential customer segments.”
– Action: “I created a comprehensive marketing plan that targeted specific demographics with tailored messaging and implemented various creative strategies to reach them.”
– Result: “The campaign resulted in a 20% increase in sales and generated positive feedback from customers, positioning the product as a market leader.”

Explanation: This answer highlights the candidate’s initiative, analytical skills, and ability to execute successful marketing strategies.

3. Q: How do you handle working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines?

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In my previous role, I was tasked with coordinating a large-scale event with multiple stakeholders and a tight deadline.”
– Task: “I had to ensure all aspects of the event were planned and executed seamlessly, including venue setup, catering, entertainment, and logistics.”
– Action: “I created a detailed timeline, delegated responsibilities to team members, and conducted regular progress checks to stay on track.”
– Result: “Despite the pressure and tight deadlines, the event was a resounding success, exceeding expectations and receiving positive feedback from attendees.”

Explanation: This answer showcases the candidate’s ability to handle pressure, prioritize tasks, and effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously.

4. Q: What methods or strategies do you use to prioritize and manage your workload?

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In my previous role, I had to juggle multiple projects with varying deadlines and competing priorities.”
– Task: “To manage my workload effectively, I used a combination of time management techniques, including setting clear goals, creating daily and weekly to-do lists, and prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance.”
– Action: “I also utilized various tools and apps to help me stay organized, track my progress, and stay focused on high-priority tasks.”
– Result: “This systematic approach allowed me to complete all my assignments on time, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and contribute effectively to team projects.”

Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s time management skills, organizational abilities, and ability to work independently.

5. Q: Give me an example of a conflict you had with a colleague and how you resolved it.

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In a previous team project, I had a disagreement with a colleague regarding the best approach to a particular task.”
– Task: “I recognized the importance of resolving the conflict constructively to maintain a harmonious working environment and achieve the project goals.”
– Action: “I took the initiative to approach my colleague and discuss the issue openly and respectfully. We listened to each other’s perspectives, identified the root cause of the disagreement, and explored potential solutions.”
– Result: “Through effective communication and compromise, we were able to find a mutually agreeable solution that allowed us to move forward with the project successfully, strengthening our working relationship in the process.”

Explanation: This answer highlights the candidate’s conflict resolution skills, active listening skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse team members.

6. Q: How do you stay updated with industry trends and advancements related to your field?

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In today’s rapidly evolving industries, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest trends and advancements.”
– Task: “To keep my knowledge and skills current, I make a conscious effort to continuously learn and stay updated.”
– Action: “I regularly read industry publications, attend seminars and conferences, connect with experts and thought leaders on social media, and explore online courses and certifications.”
– Result: “This proactive approach has allowed me to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to changing market dynamics, and bring innovative ideas and solutions to my work.”

Explanation: This answer showcases the candidate’s commitment to continuous learning, adaptability, and desire to stay relevant in their field.

7. Q: Describe a situation where you received constructive feedback and how you reacted to it.

A: (Using the STAR framework):

– Situation: “In my previous role, during a performance review, my manager provided me with constructive feedback regarding my communication skills.”
– Task: “I acknowledged the feedback and recognized the opportunity for improvement.”
– Action: “I actively sought out opportunities to enhance my communication skills, such as enrolling in public speaking workshops, practicing active listening techniques, and requesting feedback from colleagues.”
– Result: “Through my efforts, I significantly improved my communication skills, becoming more articulate, confident, and persuasive in my interactions with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.”

Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate’s receptiveness to feedback, willingness to learn and grow, and ability to take proactive steps to address areas for improvement.