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Amazon Announces 100 Degree Level Apprenticeships

Amazon, this month, has announced a recruitment drive to hire 100 degree-level apprentices.

In addition, Amazon also has 400 advanced apprenticeships on offer and 500 internal apprenticeships opportunities for current Amazon employees to apply for.

The Amazon apprenticeships, according to Yahoo News, will span across 25 different job roles including engineering, broadcast production, creative design, IT, health, safety, and the environment.

Degree-level apprenticeships are in high demand, so expect tough competition, especially with Amazon offering up to £30,000 salaries.

Before applying for an Amazon apprenticeship it is important to first understand the varying apprenticeship levels:

Intermediate level apprenticeship

  • Equivalent to 5 GCSEs grade 4-9 (previously known as grade A*-C)
  • Entry requirements – literacy and numeracy Level 2 certificates or Maths and English GCSEs

Advanced level apprenticeship

  • Equivalent to A-levels and BTec extended diploma
  • Entry requirements – 5 GCSEs grade 4-9 including Maths and English

Higher-level apprenticeship

  • Equivalent to a foundation degree
  • Entry requirements – A-Levels, Advanced level apprenticeships NVQ Level 3 or a BTec extended diploma

Higher and Degree-level apprenticeship

  • Equivalent to a degree. The difference between a higher and degree apprenticeship is that a full bachelor’s or master’s degree can be achieved as part of a degree apprenticeship.
  • Entry requirements – HNC, HND, NVQ Level 4 NVQ or any other level 4 qualifications

To be successful in the recruitment job hunters will need to pass an apprenticeship interview process.

Don’t fall into the trap of believing the apprenticeships are only for school leavers. The myth comes from a previous government initiative to increase Level 2 and 3 apprenticeship take up with school and college leavers.

For degree-level apprenticeships, any career professional (school leavers won’t yet have the entry requirements to apply for a degree-level apprenticeship) can apply for the various apprenticeship opportunities, and they will due to Amazon’s competitive salaries.

amazon logo

Amazon Recruitment Process.

With vacancies going live on March 4th, it’s important for job seekers to get familiar with the Amazon recruitment process.

The 3 stages for applying for an Amazon degree-level apprentice include:

  1. Online application – this includes uploading a CV and passing an eligibility test
  2. Complete a literacy and numeracy test, before taking part in a virtual interview
  3. Attend an assessment center to complete a competency-based job interview and group exercises.

Amazon Degree-level apprentice interview questions

The trick to passing a job interview is predicting the job interview questions, as this allows the interviewee to prepare high-scoring answers.

As an example, a candidate applying for an Amazon warehouse apprenticeship is going to be asked questions on health and safety, completing orders and receiving goods, whereas an Amazon applications developer will be asked questions on programming language and creative problem-solving.

This article will teach you how to answer job interview questions relating to degree-level apprenticeships.

What is your career goal?

Degree-level apprenticeship interviews vary from standard job interviews because the employer will invest a lot of time into the development of a successful employee.

Not only do employers fund the degree-level apprenticeship (there is no cost to the apprentice) the employer will also allocate other staff members as mentors, fund additional development and training opportunities, as well as allowing time off work duties to complete assignments.

With this in mind, the employer is looking to recruit an enthusiastic career professional who has a clear career objective.

Why? Because an employer who has spent a large amount of time developing a staff member doesn’t want them, once qualified, to leave for another opportunity.

When answering the career goal question, which can be phrased as ‘why have you applied for an apprenticeship position?’ or ‘what interested you about this role?’ the interviewee must reassure the employer that the job role they are applying for has a direct route to their longer-term career goal.

To score high, when answering this interview question, applicants should:

  • Be enthusiastic
  • Show confidence
  • Give detail

Example Answer

Start by focusing on your passion, which should relate to the job role/career goal being discussed:

‘I am passionate about (add sector related passion – computer design, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, etc)..’

After highlighting a passion, link the subject to your career goal:

‘…since (a young age, leaving school, learning about X) I have wanted to pursue a career in (add job role) …’

Next, add a unique selling point:

‘…my whole life is about (add sector/job role) I attend (fairs, training, clubs – anything that links to the job role). My previous roles were in (add relevant job roles) where I became an expert at (add a skill, quality and unique selling point)…’

End with a summary:

‘…to conclude, I am passionate about (career) and I have applied for the degree-level apprenticeship to increase my sector knowledge while utilising my (unique selling point) while working as a (add apprenticeship job role).

Why did you apply for the Amazon apprenticeship scheme?

The ‘why us?’ interview question asks a hidden question – will you be working for Amazon long-term?

As discussed, there is a great deal of time and money put into the development of a degree-level apprentice. The employer, through the apprenticeship scheme, is upskilling the employee to be a highly competent industry professional.

In addition, the training is focused on the Amazon company culture, shaping the apprentice approach to the values of Amazon.

Anyone candidate that is viewed as a potential job hopper is unlikely to be successful.

Impress the employer by:

  • Reassuring the interviewer that you have a long-term goal to work your way up the Amazon career ladder
  • Matching your personal values to the culture of Amazon
  • Praising Amazons successes

Research is key here. On Amazon’s about me,’ page is a breakdown of their history and Amazon’s vision and values.

Example answer.

State options:

‘When looking at degree-level apprenticeship options, I found several relevant to my career goal. One was with (add competitor) …’

Prase Amazon – use the below as a template but read Amazon culture and talk about the key areas that relate to your personal values:

‘…but I applied for the Amazon apprenticeship because of Amazon’s mission of being ‘customer-centric, what appeals to me is the innovative technology that Amazon brings to market, you can see how the leadership principles are embedded into every decision….(reference other Amazon values that you believe and any other reason why Amazon, as an employer, stood out for you)…’

Discuss what you can offer:

‘…what I can bring to the team is (add skill/quality IE creative thinking) an example of this is (give example of using said skill/quality)..’

How will you balance the apprenticeship assignments and the business as usual in work activities?

The ‘workload’ question isn’t really necessary.

Asking irrelevant questions to wannabe apprentices is important as the employer needs to check the applicant’s time-management skills and if they have an awareness of the workload involved in the undertaking of a degree-level apprenticeship.

The reason that there is no need to ask how a candidate will balance work against study, is due to the fact that Amazon will have an embedded training timetable.

On average, but depending on the apprenticeship role, the apprentices will attend a monthly, often online, lesson. Between each lesson, the apprentice will have to complete the accompanying assignment and collect relevant work-based evidence.

In most cases, employers will allow the apprentices time in work to complete the assignments, while still completing the day-to-day operational tasks.

Therefore, to answer the ‘time-management’ questions ensure you cover:

  • Recognising the workload involved in undertaking a degree-level apprenticeship
  • Working while studying
  • Time management techniques

Example interview answer.

Show excitement

‘I’m really enthusiastic about returning to study….

Give detail

‘…I am really keen on developing my skills in (add a specific area relevant to the apprenticeship role)…’

Show understanding

‘… a friend of mine recently finished their degree-level apprenticeship and told me about the workload….’

Explain time-management approach

‘….as a very organised person I use (explain time-management model IE time management matrix)

Summarise

‘….in summary, I understand the additional workload and timeframe and the competing requirements of the day-to-day in-work tasks. As someone who always achieves deadlines and who is keen to pass the qualification, I will be able to plan workload and assignments to ensure that all tasks are complete to a high standard while being on time.’

The remaining questions will be job role related. For ideas what the type of job interview questions you will be asked use the Employment King search bar.

In addition to the above interview questions, interviewees will also be able to ask the interview panel a set of questions.

Job Interview Advice

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Aldi Store Apprenticeship Interview Questions

According to Bury Times, Aldi has announced the launch of 96 store apprenticeships across Greater Manchester.

Since 2012 Aldi has recruited over 200 apprentices in their head office, distribution centers and stores with a starting salary of, on average, £190 per week rising to £283 following the completion of a 3 year apprenticeship scheme.

Aldi’s apprenticeship website explains the two pathways to access a store apprenticeship:

Career Starter – For applicants with no previous qualifications you can apply for a Level 2 Retailer Apprenticeship which takes around 12-15 months to complete. You will also complete Functional Skills at Level 2 alongside this.

Store Management Apprenticeship  – For applicants that already have their GCSE’s in Maths and English at Grade C or above (or equivalents) you can apply for our Store Management Apprenticeship programme. You will complete both Level 2 Retailer and Level 3 Retail Team Leader which  takes up to 36 months to complete.

Check your level of perceived experience here: predict the job interview outcome.

Unlike a higher education course, apprentices, to be successful in the recruitment process, are required to pass an apprenticeship interview. This article will give you a list of questions and answers Aldi may ask applicants.

It is also important to remember that during the lockdown, the apprenticeship recruitment process is likely to be an online job interview.

Aldi Apprentice Interview Questions

5 commonly asked retail apprenticeship interview questions:

Tell me what you know about Aldi?

The ‘about us’ question is asked to check if applicants are on the same level as Aldis business plan – to have 1200 UK stores by 2025

What this vision requires to achieve this goal is a diverse workforce made up of hardworking and ambitious staff members.

When answering the ‘about us’ interview question, first state your knowledge of Aldi – one of the UK’s fastest-growing supermarket chains, who recently opened their 900th store. Originally started as a small grocery store in Germany back in 1913. Eventually, Aldi gained a liquor license to overcome the challenges of the great depression and built up customer loyalty by allowing customers to buy now, pay later.

By 1954 their innovation had not stopped, with the very first self-service checkout. Now Aldi has stores worldwide and is always looking at creative ways to build upon the business, such as their apprenticeship scheme.

End the interview answer by stating why you applied for this role:

‘..this is why I applied for the apprenticeship role. Not only do I want a career in retail management, but I also want to work for an innovative company that sets high standards and I believe Aldi will be the go-to supermarket for customers who want quality goods at cheap prices.

Why did you apply for the Aldi apprenticeship scheme?

Aldi recruitment director, Kelly Stokes, said: “Aldi Apprentices are trained and mentored by some of the most experienced people in the retail sector, so all new colleagues receive the best training possible.”

This statement can become the basis of the interview answer ‘I want to be the best retail manager I can, with Aldi apprentices being trained and mentored by highly skilled and experienced sector professionals I want to increase my skill set, knowledge, and experience to ensure I will become a success Aldi manager.’

In addition to stating what you the apprentices want out of the relationship, explain what you can bring to the team:

‘As a (add experience, skill or qualification) gained from (give example) I will (state what you can offer the Aldi family)

Skills required for an apprentice retail manager or store assistant include:

  • Determination
  • Creative problem-solving
  • IT and mathematical skills
  • Target driven
  • Customer service skills

Walk me through what you believe a standard working day will look like?

This question, sometimes worded as ‘give me an overview of the role you are applying for?’ or ‘what do you think your main duties will be?’ is a question to check each applicant’s understanding of the day-to-day task.

The employer here is checking suitability. If you know the job duties and are enthusiastic about them, you are likely to be applying for a suitable job role.

On the other hand, if you dislike some or all of the retail tasks or have no awareness of the essential job duties it is unlikely that you would last long as an apprentice.

To show understanding simple list the job duties in order;

  1. Preparing the store for opening; stacking shelves, stocktaking, cleaning the isles, checking the temperature of the fridges, getting the tills ready
  2. Customer service; operating the tills, assisting customers, re-stocking the shelves, taking deliveries, cleaning up
  3. 3 End of the day; closing the store, checking security, stock-taking, filling up the stores, stock rotation

To stand out during the interview answer, end the answer with what you would most enjoy about this role:

‘Out of all these duties, I am most looking forward to (add duty) as I know this would give me a great deal of job satisfaction.’

Give me an example of great customer service

Aldi value customer service.

When answering this interview question use an example that highlights how you go above and beyond to help a customer.

Also, be enthusiasm and communicate with words that motivate .

At the start of the answer set the scene;

  • where were you?
  • what was the customers problem?
  • who was the customer?

Next, explain what action you took to support the customer to overcome their problem:

  • gave advice
  • source additional support
  • find a creative solution

End the interview answer with positive success:

  • the customer was happy
  • increase in repeat business
  • gave an online review

Are you a team player?

Sometimes, the question is framed as ‘give an example of working within a team?’ or ‘why is teamwork so important in retail?’

No matter how the interview question is worded, the wannabe apprentice has to ensure that the interviewer knows that they excel in team.

Start the answer confidently ‘I’m an excellent team player, in all my previous roles I have had to work within a team.’

Next, show sector awareness by stating how the Aldi team work together:

‘I know that for an Aldi store to be successful all colleagues and departments have to work collectively. As an example, if the warehouse team hasn’t been informed about a well-selling product they are unlikely to have the goods ready to refill the shelves, which could result in a loss in sales, or if the tills are busy and a colleague decides not to help out this could result in poor customer satisfaction.’

End the answer, by expaining the type of ‘team player’ you are:

‘As a team player I always look at the big picture and proactively help colleagues out whenever I can with the goal of ensuring customers are well looked after.’

In addition to the above interview questions, interviewees will also be able to ask the interview panel a set of questions.

Job Interview Advice

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Dexters Estate Agent Apprenticeship Interview Questions

Covid isn’t stopping the recruitment of apprenticeships at Dexters estate agents.

Dexters are ‘passionate about investing and training,’ according to CEO Andy Sheppard, who has seen over 150 apprentices pass through Dexters academy over the past 4 years.

An apprenticeship is one way to gain an industry related qualification whilst working within the job sector, gaining valuable worked-related skills.

One advantage of an apprenticeship, over a more traditional higher education route, is receiving a salary while gaining a qualification. In addition, there are no student loans required, unlike a higher education course.

According to property industry eye, Dexter’s will be adding 100 new apprentices to its current pool of 90.

Unlike a higher education course, applicants, to be successful in the recruitment process, are required to pass a very competitive apprenticeship interview.

Below is a list of commonly asked apprenticeship questions and answers for an estate agent apprenticeship interview.

Remembering, that during lockdown the apprenticeship recruitment process is going to be an online job interview.

Apprentice Estate Agent Interview Questions

5 commonly asked interview questions:

What do you know about Dexters?

Dexters take their corporate responsibility seriously, with a focus on having ‘people at the heart of everything we do’

When answering the ‘about us’ question give an overview of the company portfolio; chartered surveyors, leaseholding and estate agents.

Also, discuss their corporate responsibility, as this will show that you have researched the organisation. Talk about Dexter’s approach to the gender pay gap, business ethics and care in the community.

Companies that are ‘people’ focused make hiring decisions based on the potential employee’s values and attitude. By showing how you are also people-focused and you care about the customers, colleagues and stakeholders, will help to increase the chances of being recruited.

The goal here, is to highlight your level of interest and knowledge of the company.

Why would you make a good Dexter’s apprentice?

In the main, most apprentices don’t possess a large duration of industry experience and, generally speaking, won’t possess a sector related qualification, and employers know this.

With this in mind, employers are looking for proof of work ethics, skills and qualities.

For an estate agent apprenticeship, employers want to recruit employees who possess:

  • good communication skills
  • a high level of confidence
  • determination
  • IT skills
  • target driven

To answer this interview question split the answer into two parts; work ethic and skill set (if an applicant has any relevant experience they can discuss the experience during this interview answer.

Remember to give examples as storytelling increases likeability.

“I know I would be an excellent apprentice because…(state skill relating to work ethic) an example of this was when (add example)…

..I also possess a good level of (add skill) when working at X, I … (add example)…”

How would you balance working in a full-time job and studying to pass the apprenticeship qualification?

The demanding responsibilities of the role and the number of assignments required to complete the apprenticeship qualification means that hiring managers are looking for an employee with proven time management skills.

To approach this interview question, show that you understand the demands of the job role:

“Working as an estate agent apprentice, I understand that I would (add job duties; collecting property information, writing copy for Rightmove and adverts, showing customers around properties and working and supporting qualified estate agents) …..”

Next, show awareness of the workload involved in an apprenticeship:

“…and I know that to pass the apprenticeship I will have to write around 6-8 assignments to show my competencies for being an estate agent, as well as sourcing evidence of my industry knowledge…

Then follow up by highlighting time management skills:

“..to achieve my job duties while meeting assignment deadlines, I will utilise my time management skills. This would include (add time management techniques; ranking task in terms of importance, diary management, to-do list, collaborating with colleagues, automating activities) …”

Why would you like to work as an estate agent?

The question is really designed to test an applicants knowledge of the job role. It is important, therefore, to describe the job duties that drawn you to the advertised apprenticeship.

Explain (and link) your long term career goal.

It is also important to show enthusiasm and communicate with words that motivate and impress employers.

Start the answer by showing passion: “I have always wanted a career as an estate agent, as I love the thought of helping customers to find their dream house that they can make their home….”

Secondly, discuss some of the job duties that you enjoy:

“…I want to specialise in sales as I’m very target driven. As a strong communicator, I am able to negotiate to get the best price for my customers, an example of negotiation was when (add example)…

…I would also enjoy (add second duty) as I am (add relevant skill and example)..”

Why is communication an important skill for an estate agent?

Throughout the whole job interview, there will be several questions based on the skills and job duties of the job role.

One commonly asked question will be the ‘communication’ question. Why? Because communication is a key skill for any estate agent.

When answering any skill-based interview question, ideally answer by using an example to back up any claims made in the interview answer.

Open the answer with a confident statement: “Communication is a key strength of mine…”

Show knowledge by listing different elements of communication “…good communication includes listening, speaking and confirming and double-checking details, but it also includes eye contact, varying tonality, building trust and body language…”

“..I was able to demonstrate my communication skills in my last job where (add example)…”

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Common Asked Housing Officer Questions

A housing officer will often be employed for housing associations or the local authority, supporting clients with the assessment of needs in terms of housing applications.

The housing officer may also specialise in working with homeless people and/or service users with additional needs.

How competitive is a Housing Officer job Interview?

Medium in competitiveness

Interview Specifics

Structural job interview last 45 minutes with 8 interview questions being asked

This article will list the commonly asked job interview questions for a housing officer.

By understanding the job interview structure and by knowing the commonly asked housing officer interview questions, applicants can prepare answers that highlight their level of competencies within this industry.

Common Asked Housing  Officer Interview Questions 

Can you tell me about your housing officer experience?

This housing officer interview question is asked for two reasons; 1 it is an open question to get you talking/feeling relax at the job interview start. 2, to gain a general overview of your experience (generic because the follow-up questions will go into more detail)

To answer this job interview question, start by summarising your experience as a housing officer, your relevant qualifications and a key unique skill relevant to the industry – something that makes you stand out, this could be a specialism you have IE working to house homeless service users.

How do you assess the needs of a client?

This interview question is key because this is the crux of the job role.

Split this answer into two sections. Section one is your people skills; explain how you build rapport, how you use effective listening skills, how open and closed questions have a powerful impact, and how you remain calm in stressful situations. Give a short example to highlight your level of expertise and competencies.

Section two should explain the interview structure; the questions you should ask, the information you need to collate, and how you follow GDPR, data protection and confidentiality legislation.

What does customer service mean to you?

You may be asked several customer services-related interview questions.

In the housing association sector often the service users can be stressed or angry. Some service users may have alcohol or drug addiction. In some cases, you will be speaking to clients who are struggling with finances and have been turned down for financial support.

When answering interview questions relating to customer service and communication,  explain how you can handle these situations;

What was the situation – why was the service user angry or upset?

How did you handle the situation – what did you say or do to help calm down the client?

What was the positive outcome – how did the client respond to you?

What do you look for during a housing inspection?

Competency-based job interview questions require you to fall back on your experience.

Give an example of when you have carried out an inspection that had issues (you need to pick an inspection with issues to show that you can deal with this in a professional way)

In the example explain what you look for during a general inspection, the inspection process you follow and quote safeguarding regulations, and how you, when required, challenge a service user.

Follow this up with the example “one time during an inspection I saw…” Give details of what you found, the potential safeguarding issue, and what you did to address this

How would you have a positive effect on your colleagues and team? 

A big part of the housing officers’ job criteria is to have the ability to work as part of a close-knit team. You will be asked one way or another about your ability to work within a team.

Open the teamwork answer by simply explaining how you enjoy working as part of a team and how in all previous housing roles teamwork has been an important aspect of the role. This opening confirmation statement shows how you have this required skill.

Now you have ticked the ‘teamwork’ box, you need to give a real-life example. A good frame for this job interview answer is to give a ‘helper’ perspective.

Describe how a colleague was having a problem with a housing issue and how this problem affected the output of the whole team.

Go on to describe how you took action and explain the action you took. Follow this up with the positive outcome focusing on how the whole team benefited from your quick actions.

You can also talk about the larger team – in this role, you will need to work with a range of agencies and stakeholders, including social services, jobcentre plus, citizens’ advice service.

Which other agencies would you refer a service user to? 

Part of a housing officer’s job role is to work with the tenants to help them to be successful.

To be effective in this job duty you will need to work with, signpost or refer to a large number of partner agencies from social services to the local job center, from doctor surgeries to career advice officers.

In your answer list the relevant agencies you would partner with and give an example of when you would make a referral compared to signposting.

The example has to be specific. First, explain the service users situation and the key block that was holding them back. Explain the limitations of your roles and how the service user required expert advice.

Go on to explain how the service user had attempted to get support but had failed. End the interview answer by stating what you did to ensure the client got the support and advice they required.

Do you have any questions for me?

A guaranteed question is the “do you have any questions for me?” question. And your answer should be YES! Always ask a question.

Good questions to ask in a housing officer job interview are;

  • What is your approach to supporting service users with their many barriers?
  • What development opportunities do you have to help upskill a housing officer?
  • How many hostels/houses do the organisations look after?
  • What is the best part of your day?

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Aristotles Teaches How To Persuasion in a Job Interview

Aristotle’s Persuasion Technique

Persuasion is the goal of the job interview.

In the job interview, you need to influence, persuade and motivate through the answers of your job interview answers. You naturally persuade all the time, through the words you say and how you say these words. The problem is you may persuade people not to recruit rather than persuade them to offer you the desired job position.

Aristotle was a master of the persuasive language. We have taken the leanings of Aristotle’s rhetoric and made it relevant to the job interview.

Ethos, Pathos, Logos

Ethos is your character, how you come across to the interviewer. In a job interview, you need to be seen as credible, an authority. If the job interviewer believes in you, they will listen to you, if they listen to you, they will want to buy you (offer you the position) Aristotle said “We believe good men more fully and more readily than others.”

An example of an ethical appeal: “What I have learned from working in this industry for over 28 years is…” Your duration of experience has a direct path to your Ethos.

Pathos creates an emotional response from the interview panel. In the job interview situation, you need to appeal directly to the interviewer’s emotions. The great interviewee controllers the employer’s emotions throughout the job interview, taking them on an emotional roller coaster.

An example of an emotional interview answer is “have you ever been in a situation when a multi-pound deal was just about to be lost….what I did to turn things around was…” By getting an employer to imagine/remember a negative situation stirs up their negative emotions, before you create a positive emotional pull, by explaining your positive outcome.

 

Logos is a way to use logic; reasoning, data, statistics and even debates and arguments. Imagery creates an emotional pull, logos allows you to give the facts to back up the story. “This technique increased profit by 35%..” “9 out of 10 people benefited from X”

Interview Test

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Job Interview Questions You Need to Prepare For

How to prepare for the job interview questions

Do you have a job interview date fast approaching?

Are the fears starting to rise? How much help would it be if you knew what questions you were going to be asked? If you knew the interview questions, could you prepare better interview answers?

Of course, you could. Predicting interview questions is easy. Generally in the job interview, you will be asked around 6-10 interview questions. You will be asked some commonly asked interview questions, which I will share below, and you will be asked some specific job interview questions relating to the position you are applying for. Below, I will explain how you can figure out what these questions will be.

This article will help you prepare for a successful job interview outcome.

 Job Interview Questions You Need to Prepare for

So let’s start with the commonly asked interview questions. These are the job interview questions that you will be asked in every job interview. The examples below will in the reality of a real job interview be worded differently, but the meaning will be the same.

Job Interview Question 1 “Tell me about yourself?”

At every job interview, you be asked an opening question “Why did you apply for this job?” “What is your experience in this field?” “Tell me about yourself?” that asks for a summary of you and your experience.

You need to prepare a strong opening statement that will highlight your skills, talent, unique selling point and of course your experience in the sector. With this being the first job interview question you have been asked, you need to answer this question with confidence. To answer these opening questions, start by explaining your total years in the industry, your key achievements and one of your unique selling points.

What you are doing here is making it clear that you have the required criteria for the position, but that you also have something additional, something that makes you stand out.

   

Job Interview – example questions

The second section of the job interview is where you will be asked to give examples of the key skills required for the position. This is the competency section.

To answer these job interview questions you first need to set the scene. Explain the situation, goal or objective to ensure the interviewer understands the importance of the situation. Next explain the actions you took to achieve the required outcome.   The best way to deliver this is by explaining three things your undertook that had a positive impact on the outcome. Finally, summarize what you did and state the successful outcome.

Interview questions and answers

Interview End

At the end of the job interview, you will always be asked if you have any questions that you would like to ask them? To stand out you need to ask intriguing questions.

Here are a few examples

  • “what made you pick this job?”
  • “describe the best day in your job?”
  • “what do you like about working here?”
  • “how did you gain your role here?”
  • “what will you achieve in the next 2 years?”

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Job Interview Questions for a Job at Rise in Manchester

Job Interview Questions for a Job at Rise in Manchester

 

Rise Manchester offers a tailor-made space for the FinTech community, drawing together the city’s vibrant startup culture and its rich industrial past. In staff they are looking for friendly and fun staff who know there coffee and who can improve their customers experience.

 

If you want a job at rise, here is some questions you will need to answer

 

Below you can also access 101 Interview Questions and techniques to Influence the Job Interview. Good luck with your next job interview.

 

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Need helping to pass your next job interview? You can book a SKYPE Interview Coaching Session and/or a Mock Interview with an interview coach by e-mailing employmentking@gmail.com


    

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Job Interview Questions for a Job at Rise in Manchester


 


Job Interview Question 1: 


 


“Tell me about your customer service experience?”


 


The opening question at Rise, will be a generic interview question to gain an insight into your customer service and barista experience.  Summarise your experience and have a focus on the key skills required for this position; how you welcome customers, how you promote the rise philosophy and how you go above and beyond


 


Ensure you mention


 


    

  • customer service skills
    • 

  • strong written and spoken communication skills
    • 

  • the ability to solve problems
    • 

  • the ability to deal tactfully with customers
    • 

  • your friendliness and rapport building skills  
    • 



 


 


Job Interview Question 2: 


 


“How do you handle difficult customers?”


 


For situational job interview questions, answer using a real life story or example


    

  • state the situation – why the customer was angry/difficult 
    • 

  • explain how you remain calm and how this calmed down the customer
    • 

  • discuss what you did to support the customer while following processes and procedure 
    • 

  • explain the outcome of the situation ***ensure this is positive 
    • 



 


 


Job Interview Question 3: 


 


“When have you gone and beyond to help a customer?” 


 


Rise isn’t just a coffee shop, its an experience. In an employee Rise are looking for staff members who go that extra mile. Answer this interview question by first stating your work ethic and your temperament. Second give a real life example of when you went above and beyond to help a customer. Remember at Rise the customer base isn’t just shoppers, in fact the percentage of customer are entrepreneurs who spend their day at Rise working


 


    


Job Interview Question 4: 


“What questions do you need when booking a room for a customer?”


 


Many customers book rooms and the stage area. This task requires a level of organisation. When answering this questions explain your strategy for   keeping the administration side of things on point. How do you ensure that you have the correct details; customer detailsl, booking details


 


 


Job Interview Question 5: 


 


“Why do you want to work at Rise?”


 


Be honest when answering this question – Rise has to be the right fit for you, and you need to be the right fit for Rise. What made you apply for this role? Why do you like the environment? To answer this question, start with “The three reasons I want to work at Rise are…” and then give 3 real reasons.


 


 


 


 


Interview questions and answers


 


 


 


 


 


Job Interview Question 6:


“Do you have any questions for me?”


 


Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.


 


Conclusion 


 


Many people are afraid of job interviews. The truth is if you prepare for your job interview, by predicting the job interview questions, you can easily prepare your job interview answers. If your job interview answers highlight your unique selling point, are stated in the positive and are said in a confident manner, then you can influence the job interview to increase job offer.


 


Interview Preparation Resources



 


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Posted on 
Out Of The Box Interview Tips
	


	
	

		
Think Out Of The Box To Pass a Job Interview


Run of the mill interviewing techniques are becoming talk of the past. 


“Tell me about yourself”?, A question that has been out there for so long that candidates tend to just learn the answer to it by heart with minor tweaks here and there.


If the questions aren’t going to change so will the same patented responses will be given during interviews. There is no advancement in the interviewing procedures and no learning for graduates coming fresh out of the universities.


career






Let’s consider a situation where a candidate (you) gets the call from HR representative of the company you applied to. 


A unique feature about this call would be (we’ll get into that) but how normally a candidate would respond to one such call:


HR: “Hi, is this Mr. X I’m speaking to?”


Mr. X: “Yes, who’s this?”


HR: “This Ms. Y from ABC Co., you applied for the position of XYZ. Have you got a minute, I have to ask a couple of questions?”










Mr. X: “Please go on”


HR: “Ok, so have been you working somewhere?”


Mr. X: “Both yes and no, actually I resigned from my previous employment and am currently serving my notice period”


HR: “Ok, it says here you’ve been with the firm for last 5 years, what makes you want to switch?”


Mr. X: “Although, I have had no issues here during the tenure of my employment, all I feel is a bit stagnant where I’m and want to challenge myself in pursuit of new and better opportunities”


HR: “Alright, let me schedule an interview with you tomorrow say at 11am?”


Mr. X: “Sounds good to me, will be there.”


HR: “The directions to our office will be emailed to you shortly.”


Mr. X: “Sure thanks. Bye.”


That is how a normal telephonic interview appears as. But if we could improvise and candidate can earn the seat in front row? Startling? We pick it up from point no. 10 above and see how it changes.






    


Mr. X: “Can I suggest a date, as I have some things to take care of in the days to follow? Hence I won’t be able to squeeze time for the meet.”


HR (based on the availability): “When it would be possible for you to visit, then?”


Mr. X: “On so and so date (suggest a date for 2-3 days ahead)


The idea is to buy time so you can thoroughly search about the company, its stakeholders, review their profile on LinkedIn and prepare yourself well.


HR: “How does day after tomorrow sound?”


Mr. X: “Great!”


Now if the counter argument is not up to your liking, best lock in the day as it maybe that the organization is interviewing other candidates or the interviewing authority may not be available in those days. 


At least by making a request you have made your presence felt and that you are not typical instead expressive. Just that is the purpose of asking to schedule at a later date. This gives you leverage in negotiations at the time of offer.


You don’t need to insist on scheduling for the day/date you have in mind or you’ll lose the opportunity, altogether. An attempt suffices and generally employer allows for a day or two in scheduling meets for candidates. 


Interview questions and answers










Secondly, the questions needs to be revisited to allow candidates to speak open-endedly and when someone is provided the platform to speak, their frame mind is reflected and the person interviewing can gauge whether or not the person would be a suitable fit for the organization. 


Questions could be:










“How much element of fun is part of your life?”


“Do you cater to sarcasm?”


“What if I were to ring up a close friend of yours, will he/she be able to tell me your weaknesses?”




Author Bio




Rayanne Dany is an HR consultant and can be reached for assignment writing service via her twitter handle. She has tons of experience in different organizations amounting to a total of 10 years. Her insight over the years as an HR professional has paved way for writing improvement techniques.









	


	





		

		
Posted on 
10 Job Interview Questions and Answers for an Apprenticeship
	


	
	

		
Apprenticeship Job Interveiw Questions


Often out of 300 applicants only 6 candidates will be interviewed for an apprenticeship position. In most interviews, but this varies depending on the job sector and employer, you will be asked around 10 interview questions during a 45-minute interview. An apprenticeship employer is interested more in your attitude, work ethic, skills, qualities and reliability




This article will help you to prepare and to pass your next job interview in 3 separate ways.


1. You will learn over 10 common asked interview questions for an apprenticeship


2. You will be given an explanation of the type of answer the interviewer is looking for ( a guide to what the employer wants you to discuss )


3. You will be given an example job interview answer for each individual interview question, allowing you to tweak this answer, making it relevant to your own experiences.


Below you can also access 101 Interview Questions and techniques to Influence the Job Interview. Good luck with your next job interview.




Job Interview Questions and Answers for an Apprenticeship 


Job Interview Question 1: 


“Tell me about yourself?”


This question asked at the interview start, gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your skills, experiences and educational background relevant to the job position you are applying for. 


Keep this statement positive and relevant and when you can discuss your unique selling point. 


    

  • Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your strengths and your achievements – this could be your record of attendance, that you were a perfect, your GCSE grades and hobbies and interest out of school; scouts, girl guides, volunteer, career, football captain 
    • 

  • Discuss your unique selling point as this creates intrigue IE you have never had a day of school sick or you become the class president 
    • 

  • End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for an apprenticeship 
    • 



Potential Interview Answer 


“I recently left school after achieving 5 grade A’s in my GCSEs. I am passionate about (add in job role) and have researched this job and your company in detail, I was excited to see (add in a positive comment about the company) I suit this role as I have an excellent timekeeping record, I love a challenge, this was proven when I campaign to become the head of year and I have a positive attitude towards work. I have chosen an apprenticeship rather than a colleague because (add in reason)” 




Job Interview Question 2: 


“Why was your biggest achievement in school or college?” 


Be positive with this answer and smile – employers like to hear that you enjoyed school, tried hard and made an effort to develop yourself 


    

  • Discuss a key achievement 
    • 

  • Explain what you did to create this outcome
    • 



Potential Interview Answer 


“I enjoyed school and had several key achievements. My biggest achievement was (add achievement) this was achieved by me (add 3 steps that you took to achieve the outcome) 


Job Interview Question 3: 


“What is your Time Keeping like?”


Here the employer is looking for you to demonstrate your commitment to timekeeping. It is key to explain how you are never late and value reliability


Potential Interview Answer 


“For me timekeeping is important. In college I never had a day off sick and was never once late for a lesson. I feel I am highly reliable and when I have an appointment, such as today’s job interview I ensure that I arrive early” 




Job Interview Question 4: 


“Do you work well within a team?”


Every role has an element of teamwork. Explain how you are a team player and what individual skills you can bring to working in a team”


Potential Interview Answer 


“I enjoy working in a team. At school, I was part of the (add group name) team. When working in a team I easily fall into a leadership role, this is due to my ability to plan and take action. Others find it easy to communicate with me which I think is the reason why I am always praised for my teamwork” 


Job Interview Question 5: 


“How do you feel about working 5 days a week 9-5?”


The employer knows that an apprentice hasn’t worked before (or hasn’t worked for a long period of time compared to experienced members of staff) and when in school or college your hours were less than the working week. The employer here wants to know that you understand the commitment involved and that you are happy to work these longer hours


Potential Interview Answer 


“Fine. For me, it is similar to the hours I do now. I attend school 5 days a week 9-3, after school I have a part-time job and at weekends I have 2 paper rounds so I am use to long hours and looking forward to working full time”




Job Interview Question 6: 


“How would you be an asset to us?”


Think again about the job specification and the skills needed for this role. Have a paragraph prepared highlighting how you will be able to do the job and what you can bring to the team. It goes without saying that this paragraph should be positive.


Potential Interview Answer


“I’m the type of person who likes to get a task completed; I am driven, hard-working and have excellent time management, an example of this is (add experience). I have always excelled in school and I am excited to share my skills and qualities with you to work collaborative together” 




Job Interview Question 7: 


“What are your strengths?”


This is one of the most common questions you will be asked. Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail. It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.


Potential Interview Answer


“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important when completing my English GCSE exam, as accuracy was worth 30% of the overall mark which I was given a grade A for.”




Job Interview Question 8: 


“What are your weaknesses?”


Again, another commonly asked question. A frequent mistake to make when answering this question is to say something negative like “I can sometimes let things get on top of me”. Be positive and sell yourself with every interview question, turn a negative into a positive. For example,


Potential Interview Answer


“When I first started working part-time in a shop I was unsure what to do and didn’t receive any training – I was asked to get on with it. Because I am proactive I decided to ask an experienced member of staff what the daily duties consisted of and what would be the best thing for me to do. I got on with this work and was praised by the manager for my pro-activeness. If I don’t know how to do something, I find out how to do it.”




Job Interview Question 9:


“Do you know anything about this organisation?”


Often one of the first questions you will be asked during the interview, employers want employees who will stay with the company, this question and answer will show the employer that you know the company’s history and feel they will be a good employer to work for. 


It also shows the employer that you think ahead and carry out research. Answer this question with:


    

  • The length the organisation has been operating for
    • 

  • How the company started
    • 

  • The company values/mission
    • 

  • All this information is normally found on the internet; on the company home page or about us page.
    • 



Potential Interview Answer


“I know a great deal about your organisation, before I applied for the job position I researched the company. I really like how the company started as a partnership company 10 years ago and has grown to a company of 70 staff working throughout 18 countries.”


Job Interview Question 10: 


“Do you have any questions for me?”


Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.


Conclusion 


Many people are afraid of job interviews. The truth is if you prepare for your job interview, by predicting the job interview questions, you can easily prepare your job interview answers. If your job interview answers highlight your unique selling point, are stated in the positive and are said in a confident manner, then you can influence the job interview to increase job offer.




Interview Preparation Resources





Other People Who Read This Article Also Read:





Sponsored Ad







	


	





		

		
Posted on 
Apprenticeships
	


	
	

		
Looking for work and need a qualification?


An apprenticeship does both, Completing an apprenticeship is an excellent way to gain both a qualification and work experience. While in an apprenticeship, you are classed as an employee and will be entitled to a wage.


Apprenticeships are open to all ages, like all job positions the competition is fierce. When applying you need to show you meet the required requirements for the job role and company. You learn the secret to gaining work in the Secrets of Employment.


You can gain apprenticeships in most industries, from small and large employers. Apprenticeships are advertised, like all jobs on both company websites and job search engine websites. The government have funded a website dedicated to apprenticeships http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/ With most apprenticeships you can apply while having no qualifications and by the end of the apprenticeship you will achieve an NVQ Level 2, which is equivalent to 5 GCSE’s A-C grade.


Some employers and industries will request entry requirements such as a minimum qualification, and will often take these employees through to an NVQ Level 3, equivalent to 3 A Levels. In addition, in some industries, you can also complete an NVQ Level 4, as a higher apprenticeship, equivalent to a Degree.


Apprenticeships, for a large number of people are an ideal way to up skill, gain relevant industry qualifications and a wage. Apprenticeships use a wide range of learning styles to support people in the completion of the apprenticeship, with a large amount of learning on the job.