This side of the interview table is usually quite a horror to contend with.
But you must realize that the people who are sitting on that side of the table are probably quite nervous too.
For starters, they have been entrusted with the task of gauging who the best candidate for the job is, and then bringing him or her on board.
Fearing what they will ask is not going to make things any better for you. Instead, try to remain calm and answer all questions put to you with precision.
If anything, the interview process is something that will teach you much, even if you do not end up bagging the job.
After a couple of failed interviews, you will begin to judge what goes wrong – and then you can correct it for the next interview.
For your benefit, here is a set of interview questions and answers for a business operations manager position:
Business Operations Manager Interview Questions and Answers
1. What makes an individual a great candidate to work as a business operations manager?
Technically, it is one’s knowledge of the business world and the company or unit that he or she is hired to handle. Knowing how to manage operational excellence within an organization is key to being considered a great contender to work as a business operations manager.
2. On any typical work day, what do you do in this role?
Determining what an organizational unit requires in order to function properly is an everyday task for a person working as a business operations manager. In this role, I usually start my day making sure that all systems are in place and that employees adhere to them. Ascertaining that the work environment is conducive to working creatively and vitally is all in a day’s work for me.
3. As far as you are concerned, what are YOUR specific skills in this area?
Energy and enthusiasm are perhaps the two major inherent skills that I possess. In addition to this, I have the ability to motivate and lead teams, work cross-functionally to achieve set goals and meet deadlines, and I have a great ability to identify opportunities for operational improvements of daily processes.
4. Tell us of one instance where you came out shining while performing your work duties.
Just 6 months ago, I was awarded the pride of performance award by my company, owing to my immense contribution to establishing operational controls, which placed the company on a higher pedestal (within the industry) than it was on previously.
5. How would you feel about emulating the same for another company? Or would that be a breach of your personal laws?
I believe that it would not be pertinent to give out company secrets (on how a certain system is being run or improved), but emulating the procedure should not be an issue.
6. In 5 years from now, where do you aspire to be?
Within the next 5 years, I am hoping to reach the position of business operations director. And I am striving hard to reach that position.