Assistant Manager Flashcards
What are your salary expectations?
Can you tell me the range for this position?
Here’s our pay range
“I’m looking for [] but am open to negotiation after hearing about benefits.”
Do you have any questions for me?
- Can you tell my more about your team values and culture?
Why should we hire you?
Because I believe I already have what it takes to be a successful manager and leader. [examples]
How would you deal with a conflict between two coworkers?
If I become an assistant manager here, I will make my expectations clear early on, including that I want people to work collaboratively and put aside personal differences.
If I do notice conflict between two coworkers, I’ll let them know I’m aware of it and encourage them, as responsible adults, to resolve it themselves.
I will then monitor the situation, and if it doesn’t resolve, I’ll sit down with them to determine the root cause of the conflict and resolve it quickly.
Weakness
I’m a very creative problem solver. I like to look at the big picture and design the best possible solutions, but one of my weaknesses is not being detail oriented enough for certain more specific tasks. I like to think big, and I like to solve big problems - the minutiae tends to slow me down. I like to develop systems such as checklists that make it easier to organize those details.
Tell me about yourself
I’m a conscientious, tenacious dedicated person who takes any task I commit to seriously. I’ve researched this role and your company and feel I have the necessary qualities to be an excellent Assistant Manager.
I’m able to work both independently and with a team, and I’m skilled at achieving ambitious goals with what resources are available.
How would you handle a dissatisfied customer?
Listen
Apologize
Resolve complaint (ideally to a higher standard than before)
Check if things have resolved for the customer
Describe your management style
Firm yet supportive. I will set high standards aligned with organizational goals and values and always support my team so they have the necessary skills, training and resources to achieve those goals.
What principles would you follow as a manager
Conscientiousness - plan ahead and tenaciously work to make and keep things organized
Compassion - treat every employee with respect and promote an inclusive environment
Clear Communication - make sure information is communicated concisely and directly
Creative Strategy - Design unique methods for meeting goals
How would you evaluate team performance without micromanaging?
I would set high standards from the start, as I believe if a team knows such expectations exist they are far more likely to perform well without being closely managed.
I would also hold regular meetings to communicate goals and review progress so team members will get used to following through with these goals.
I would work to build a team culture of mutual responsibility.
How would you address a morale issue?
Understanding the cause is the most important part of addressing low morale. I would promote a culture of trust and mutual respect, fostering open communication which would make it easier to check what was lowering morale if necessary. I would then make changes with the help of employee feedback.
How would you let someone go?
I would, again, focus on clear communication while following procedures so it wouldn’t cause an unfair dismissal claim. Except for extreme cases, I would first, discuss the issues occurring at performance checks giving the employee the chance to improve and advice for how to. If it didn’t I would be compassionate yet firm about the fact that that person couldn’t continue working here.
How would you deliver bad news?
Directly, compassionately and concisely. I would explain the reason if applicable and then focus on future plans.
What’s your 90 day plan?
First, I would clarify organizational goals. Then, I would devote some time to assessing team performances, personalities, strengths and weaknesses. I’d create an action plan from there and meet with all team members to discuss expectations. Finally, I’d support the team as needed.