Intro:
The more important the position, the more preparation an individual requires before their interview. Job interviews become your opportunity to sell yourself, skills, and accomplishments.
If you’re fresh out of college and interviewing for an operations manager position, you’ll take a slightly different approach. Nonetheless, it’s best to organize too.
We outline seven tips on how to prepare for an operations manager interview.
1. Understand the Position
First and foremost, understand the position before your interview appointment.
An operations manager might:
- Oversee daily company operations
- Put together staff schedules
- Execute quality assurance
- Put together budgets
- Participate in strategic planning
Several company types and sizes hire this position including:
- Non-profits
- Hospitality
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Transportation
- Retail
Therefore, you should understand the business environment, demands, and job expectations.
2. Research the Company
Some companies expect individuals seeking a job with them to research the organization. Sometimes they use this as a technique to start separating candidates. In fact, some companies use assessment tests that require preparation. You can search for assessment test answers ahead of time so that you are prepared.
It helps if you show an understanding of the organization’s culture from the interview. Companies expect hires for important positions to hit the ground running on day one. When you understand what the company needs, you make a better case for yourself.
3. Name Your Price
Based on your prior work experience and industry norms, you should have the information you need to name your price. In case the subject comes up during the interview, you should have a figure in mind. Plus, it’s a good idea to have a benefits package worked up too.
Crafty professionals who work in areas where parking is almost non-existent but necessary and expensive negotiate the cost into their benefits package.
If the position requires you to travel, you should also know your per diem employee rights. Hotel Engine provides additional information on this topic.
4. Practice the STAR Method
The STAR interview method takes place during behavioral interviews. However, you can use it to organize your thoughts and answers to potential questions.
STAR stands for situation, task, action, and result. An operations management position requires all four of those elements. You will receive situations daily. Then you must formulate a set of tasks to take action and lead to a result.
It helps to have a prior experience that you can break down into the STAR elements. Plus, prepare a hypothetical situation relevant to the organization that shows you can think on your feet.
5. Prepare to Answer Operations Management-Specific Questions
An operations manager has a lot of responsibility on their plate. Companies must find the right candidate on the first try.
Expect to answer operations management-specific questions such as:
- What is your management style?
- How do you delegate?
- How do you plan budgets?
In addition, the interviewer might ask you to outline a past project and the result. So remain ready.
The organization is searching for a professional who has the desired skill set. Their goal is to find someone who fits the company’s culture too.
6. Dress for the Job You Want
Whether you will interview in-person or over video conferencing software, dress for the job you want.
An array of industries hire operations managers. Therefore, you want to match your attire to the field. Plus, you want to remain professional. A suit and tie for men are still expected, even in construction. For the ladies, it’s a good idea to wear a blazer and skirt or dress.
An interview isn’t the time to take fashion risks. Your goal is to show that you can represent the company.
Also, remember to groom.
7. Prepare Your Resume
A resume is a document that employers use to refresh their memory when considering each candidate. Therefore, it should succinctly summarize your education, experience, accomplishments, and future.
Several free online resume resources exist. If you need professional help, several fee-based services exist too.
Before the interview, double-check that your resume reflects why you’re the best candidate for the position.
Conclusion
All interviews have similar, basic preparation components. To prepare for an operations manager position, you add a focused layer to your preparation. Companies want to hire professionals who bring something to the table. Focus on how you have helped other companies improve their bottom line. If you don’t have experience yet, show that you understand the business.
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