How do I answer those silly questions in an interview?
Asked by Jon B
I've worked in factories, warehouses, etc. as a general laborer. I've never been in a position where I was able to develop policies, implement ideas or plans, supervise people, etc. I've worked as a machine setup person - changing large molds, a production operator, a forklift operator, programming robots for three years (but for a similar task on multiple machines, no new innovations or techniques). My jobs have been: I'm shown how to do the job and where things are. "Training" might be a few hours, or maye up to a week. I do my job. Most of these places have radios or have a schedule of when machines need to be changed to the next job. I've never been in a position where my boss tells me to do this task, do this next task, do this next task all night; most days I didn't even see or speak with my supervisor. I've been laid off from my last three jobs during the last seven years (no, I wasn't the only one, I'm not doing anything wrong... they were all automotive suppliers) So, how do I answer questions about my strengths and weaknesses. I don't have a clue. I don't know how to describe myself or how to come up with the BS answers that they want. I've never had a formal interview. So far, they have all been with a plant worker/supervisor while walking around the shop. Then, a quick five minute or less meeting with the HR person. This is exactly what I was talking about: "Try to use examples when you were in charge at one point and time." I've never been in charge of anyone. Most people in a factory or warehouse never are "in charge" of others.

Best Answer:
Actually I like the statement you made in your question. It pretty much covers your strengths. Self directed, motivated & reliable. Weaknesses? Use something minor and general Like "I am a little too tough on myself."
HR manager with experience in a distribution warehouse.
Answered by Rushevents

be brave and to the point.
Answered by queta nates

Embellish the facts... if you increased production on the line in a factory, say "i have implemented streamlined workflow to increase productivity and output"
Answered by Ryan

Just be yourself, stay calm and answer everything honestly. Try to use examples when you were in charge at one point and time. You will be fine, don't forget to breath and tell them that you are great for the job and you can bring alot to their company with your loyalty and that they wont regret their decision
Answered by Cubangoddess

Your strength = what you mentioned above Your weakness = Answering questions, Communication, etc Just make up things
Answered by Minime

You can say you can work alone, without any prompting, but you can work in team aswell.
Answered by BWGuy

You sound like somebody I just met a week or two ago at a job placement agency. The best thing you can do is think about your strengths and weaknesses ahead of time so you already know what your answer is going to be before they ask it. The trick about talking about weaknesses is that you don't really tell them your weaknesses. Instead, you tell them about how you used to have a weakness but you overcame it (and tell them how you overcame it).
Answered by mukwonago53149

what an employer really wants to know with this question is "what makes you so special that I should hire you and not the other guy?" Let the interviewer know that you are used to hard labor, You can manage a staff, you can think up solutions and implement them. generally, think up things that are related to the possition you are applying for and tell the boss what makes you right for the job.
Answered by Allie

While I can't answer for the weaknesses, your strengths might include - works independently, with little supervision, and learns quickly. Look outside your work experience. Do you volunteer somewhere - if so, what have you taken on (leadership, initiative, etc.). Volunteer work counts just as much as paid work. Howe about at home - do you keep to a budget - how do you plan it, etc. Think more of your life experience, think outside the 9 to 5 box. BTW, being laid off due to the economy can be a strength - you learned to plan for the worst, took the initiative to find new jobs, obviously, you are multi-skilled, you are resilient.
Answered by Steve D

You answer with the truth with a positive twist. For example: My strengths are to identify situations that are not promoting productivity and finding creative solutions. (have an example ready). I do not really like to think of myself as a weak person, but if I have to select an area for improvement, I would like to have a position that allows me the independance to manage more of my work to greater efficiency. (then explain that you past positions required that you are fed a schedule whereas you are capable of taking on a position that allows you the ability to meet deadlines without the supervisor feeling obligated to watch each step). The key is showing that you have anticipated the obvious question, have taken the time to identify what needs work and have a positive teamlike approach. It is not just me, me, me. Good luck.
Answered by Chris S

You're able to work independently and with little or no supervision. You don't require a lot of intense training - you're quick to catch on. And if you're punctual and hardly miss a day of work (other than scheduled leave), it's good to point out that you're dependable. Those are all strengths.
Answered by Hokie_Pokey

This is a bit long, and probably not what you expected. But, it's based in fact. You identify your strengths in the description as self motivated, a quick study, able to be easily trained, reliable, trustworthy, and have a host of industrial skills. It would also appear from your post that you are generally flexible to do what it takes to get a job done. Additionally, the structure of your writing tells me that you are generally articulate. If I had a job in a warehouse/production arena I'd be interested in talking to you. You've identified your weaknesses as not taking advantage of additional training on your own, had no supervisory experience, do not appear to be interested in managing a team. I could be way off base to reality but that is the picture that, as a recruiter, I would deduct if you presented this in person. Which is what I would suggest you do next. Reach out to a recruiter who works with your skill set and ask for a mock interview so you can get some feedback on strengths and weaknesses.
Answered by jobbend

you've already know the how to respond. BS Questions = BS Answers e.g. Retail Question i was asked yrs ago - these are general knowledge question based in the sector ur workin in. BS Q. What policies would you implement to increase sales? BS A. Target the kids, put candy/chocolates near registers, have footprints that lead from entrance to toys/lollies section, etc... Strengths and Weaknesses are easy to answer - pure Grade A BS, (just lie if u can't think of anything) - but you've already wrote some of ur strengths and weaknesses so just repeat and elaborate on those. Here's a BS answer i always use: "my main strength is that i'm a perfectionist, which is also one of my weakness. I might take too long trying to make something perfect but i would rather have something right than have it done wrong." leadership is also a great to talk about "I was team captain of my soccer team, it was my job to make sure everyone was attending training and enjoying, (more rambling BS)" if you can't make BS up on the spot, the try thinking of the questions you'll probably be asked in the interview and practice answering them - then when ur asked later, just repeat the answer u've practiced
Answered by JB