Top Technical Support Specialist Interview Questions with Example Answers [2022]

Prepare for your Technical Support Specialist interview by going through these most asked Technical Support Specialist interview questions. Additionally, get access to sample answers and interviewer's expectations.

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  • Question: What is the difference between TCP and UDP?
  • Question Overview: This is a basic networking question that is often asked to gauge an applicant's knowledge of networking. An applicant should have a basic understanding of the difference between the two protocols, and they should be able to explain the difference in layman's terms.

    Sample Answer: TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that ensures packets are delivered in sequence. UDP is a connectionless protocol that does not guarantee packet delivery.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to explain the difference in layman's terms
    • - Knowledge of the protocols
    • - Ability to explain the difference between the two protocols

  • Question: How will you explain a financial statement to a 7-year old kid?
  • Question Overview: This question is designed to assess how well an applicant can communicate with people who have no technical background. This is important because a technical support specialist often has to explain technical issues to non-technical people.

    Sample Answer: I would explain that money comes from a company and it is used to pay for things like food, rent and other things. I would also explain that money is not free and that it has to be earned.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to simplify the message
    • - Ability to listen to the person's needs
    • - Ability to ask questions and clarify

  • Question: Why did you leave your last job?
  • Question Overview: This question is important because it gives you insight into the applicant's work history. If they left a job quickly, it could indicate that they are not a good fit for your organization. However, if they left a job because of a promotion or transfer, this could indicate that they are motivated and have a strong work ethic.

    Sample Answer: I left my last job because I was promoted to a position with more responsibility.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to stay calm and explain the situation
    • - Ability to explain the situation in a professional manner

  • Question: If we interview applicants that are more qualified, why should I hire you?
  • Question Overview: This question is a great way to see how candidates handle pressure. It also gives them an opportunity to sell themselves. This is a great way to see how they handle rejection and what they do to overcome it.

    Sample Answer: I am the best candidate for this position because I am a quick learner and I have the ability to adapt to new technologies. I would be able to learn your company's procedures quickly and provide the best service possible.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to think on their feet
    • - Ability to sell themselves
    • - Confidence in their abilities

  • Question: How will you move a mountain from point A to point B?
  • Question Overview: This is a question that can be asked of any position. The answer to this question is not as important as the thought process behind it. An applicant should be able to explain how they would approach a problem and what they would do to solve it. This is an opportunity for an applicant to show their ability to think critically and creatively.

    Sample Answer: I would first assess the situation and determine if I could move the mountain or if I needed help. If I could move it myself, I would use a variety of tools and equipment to move it. If I needed help, I would ask for assistance from others.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to think critically and creatively
    • - Ability to explain the thought process
    • - Ability to prioritize

  • Question: How would you help someone build a network for a small business?
  • Question Overview: This question assesses an applicant's ability to listen, understand and communicate. It also assesses an applicant's ability to think on their feet. You want to ensure that an applicant can think critically and has the ability to explain technical concepts in a way that is easy to understand.

    Sample Answer: I would first ask what the business does. Then I would ask about their internet needs. I would then recommend a network that is best suited for their needs.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to listen and understand
    • - Ability to communicate technical concepts in a way that is easy to understand
    • - Ability to think critically and on their feet

  • Question: What is WSDL?
  • Question Overview: This is a basic question that will test the applicant's knowledge of web services.

    Sample Answer: Web services description language (WSDL) is an XML-based language for describing network services as a set of endpoints operating on messages containing either document-oriented or procedure-oriented information.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to explain the concept
    • - Ability to explain the concept in layman's terms

  • Question: How would you handle a difficult customer?
  • Question Overview: A difficult customer is a challenge for anyone. An applicant should be able to demonstrate the ability to remain calm and professional. If an applicant cannot remain calm, they will not be able to provide the best service to customers.

    Sample Answer: I would listen to the customer and try to understand their issue. I would then explain the issue in layman's terms and offer a solution.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to remain calm
    • - Ability to listen and empathize
    • - Ability to explain technical issues in layman's terms

  • Question: What would you do if a client is very demanding?
  • Question Overview: This question is important because a technical support specialist must be able to handle different types of personalities. A candidate should be able to remain calm and professional.

    Sample Answer: I would try to understand the client's needs and explain the situation in a way that is easy for them to understand.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to remain calm and professional
    • - Ability to empathize with the client
    • - Ability to explain the situation in a way that is easy to understand

  • Question: What is your favorite Google value?
  • Question Overview: Google values are important because they are the foundation of the company. If an applicant is not familiar with the values, it could be a red flag. Furthermore, if an applicant does not understand the importance of the values, it could be a red flag.

    Sample Answer: I like the idea of "focus on the user and all else will follow." This is because it reminds me that we need to focus on our customers and what they need.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to articulate the values
    • - Understanding of how they relate to the job
    • - Ability to relate them to other companies

  • Question: Tell us about a time when you had to take control of a situation where the customer was heated.
  • Question Overview: This question is important because it gives you an idea of how candidates handle stressful situations. You want to ensure that they are able to remain calm and professional. You also want to ensure that they are able to explain the situation in a way that is easy to understand.

    Sample Answer: I was working with a customer who was having issues with her computer. She was very upset and I had to work hard to keep her calm. I explained the issue and worked with her until the problem was resolved.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to remain calm
    • - Ability to explain technical issues in a way that is easy to understand
    • - Ability to prioritize and multitask

  • Question: What is Domain Name System?
  • Question Overview: This is a basic question that tests an applicant's knowledge of networking. DNS is a protocol that translates domain names into IP addresses. It is a critical part of the Internet.

    Sample Answer: Domain Name System (DNS) is a protocol that translates domain names into IP addresses. It is a critical part of the Internet.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of DNS
    • - Ability to explain the purpose of DNS

  • Question: What would make you stay in this company?
  • Question Overview: This question is important because it allows you to see if the applicant is looking for a short-term position or a long-term relationship with your company. You want to ensure that an applicant has the ability to see the big picture beyond technical support.

    Sample Answer: I would stay in this company because I would like to develop my skills and help others.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to see the big picture
    • - Desire to help people and further their skills
    • - Ability to see the company's vision

  • Question: What do you expect from your manager?
  • Question Overview: Technical support specialists are often the first point of contact for customers. Therefore, they must be able to work well with others. An interviewer should listen for how candidates approach their relationships with managers. Are they looking for a manager who is hands off and allows them to do their job? Or do they want a manager who is involved and helps them grow?

    Sample Answer: I want a manager who will allow me to do my job and help me grow. I want to be able to learn from my mistakes and have the freedom to make decisions.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Desire for a hands-off manager
    • - Desire for a manager who is involved
    • - Desire for a manager who is a mentor

  • Question: How do you think you will handle working for a call center?
  • Question Overview: This question is important because a call center environment is often stressful. You want to ensure that an applicant is able to handle the pressure of a call center environment. You also want to ensure that an applicant has the ability to work in a team-oriented environment.

    Sample Answer: I've worked in a call center before and I know how to handle the pressure. I also know how to multitask and prioritize my tasks.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to work in a team-oriented environment
    • - Ability to handle pressure
    • - Ability to multitask

  • Question: What is the resolution of 1080p?
  • Question Overview: This question is designed to assess an applicant's technical knowledge. 1080p is a high-definition resolution that is used in television and video. The question is designed to see if the applicant has a working knowledge of the resolution.

    Sample Answer: 1080p is 1920 pixels wide by 1080 pixels tall.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of the resolution
    • - Ability to research the answer
    • - Ability to explain the resolution in layman's terms

  • Question: What do you think is the hardest part of this job?
  • Question Overview: This question allows you to assess an applicant's understanding of the job. You want to ensure that they understand the job and are aware of the challenges that come with it. The answer should also demonstrate their ability to handle stress and remain calm.

    Sample Answer: I think the hardest part of this job is when a customer is upset. I would try to remain calm and explain the issue in a way that they can understand.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to stay calm
    • - Ability to prioritize
    • - Ability to multitask

  • Question: Why do you want to work in support?
  • Question Overview: An applicant should be able to articulate why they want to work in support. This could include their desire to help people, their ability to communicate technical concepts or their interest in the technology field.

    Sample Answer: I want to work in support because I enjoy helping people. I have a knack for explaining technical issues in a way that is easy to understand.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to communicate technical concepts
    • - Desire to help people
    • - Interest in technology