Top Supervisor Interview Questions with Example Answers [2020]

Question Overview: This question will help you determine if the candidate has a solid grasp on what it takes to be a good leader.

Sample Answer: I like to think of myself as a coach. I want my employees to feel like they can come to me with any questions or concerns. I also believe that it's important to set an example for my team by being the first person in the office and the last person to leave.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have been in charge of successful teams
• - Willingness to adjust their leadership style as needed
• - Understanding of their role as a supervisor in regards to leadership

Question Overview: This question will reveal how the candidate has dealt with difficult employees in the past. It's important to find out how they would handle a situation like this in your company.

Sample Answer: I had a situation at my last job where one of my employees was not performing up to par. I tried to work with him on his performance, but he didn't seem interested in improving. I was forced to let him go. It was a difficult situation, but I felt it was the right thing to do.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have dealt with difficult employees before
• - Confirmation they are able to handle conflict well
• - Indications they are able to lead through tough situations

Question Overview: This is a classic interview question, but it's important to ask because it will help you determine if the candidate is a good fit for your company.

Sample Answer: I'm very organized and detail oriented. I like to make sure that all of my ducks are in a row before I begin working on a project. I think this is an important skill for a supervisor to have, because it helps them to ensure that their team members are on the same page and working towards the same goals.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they are self-aware about their strengths
• - Confirmation they have a good understanding of your company's needs
• - Indications they are prepared to explain their strengths in relation to your company's needs

Question Overview: Safety is a priority for every supervisor. This question will help you learn how the candidate approaches safety and what they do to keep their team safe.

Sample Answer: I would first make sure that everyone on my team was trained in safety procedures. I would also make sure that we had all of the necessary safety equipment in place. I would then make sure that everyone was aware of the importance of safety and that they were all working safely.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have experience with safety
• - Awareness of the importance of safety
• - Confirmation they are willing to take the steps necessary to keep their team safe

Question Overview: A supervisor needs to be available to their team, but they also need to have time for their own work. This question will help you determine if the candidate has a realistic idea of how much time they will need to dedicate to the role.

Sample Answer: I am available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. I am also available on the weekends if needed. I have a family at home that I like to spend time with, so I try to keep my weekends free.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have considered their availability
• - Awareness of the time commitment required for the role
• - Confirmation they have a good work-life balance

Question Overview: This question is a great way to see if the candidate is self-aware and open to feedback. If they are, they will be able to give you a list of areas where they can improve.

Sample Answer: I think I could improve my ability to delegate tasks. I tend to take on too much myself, which can be overwhelming at times. I'm working on breaking down my work into smaller chunks so I can delegate more effectively.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they are aware of their weaknesses
• - Willingness to admit their shortcomings
• - An understanding of how to improve in the future

Question Overview: A supervisor's management style can make or break their success. This question will reveal if the candidate is a good fit for your company's culture.

Sample Answer: I am a very hands-on manager. I like to be involved in the day-to-day operations of my team, and I like to be available to help them with any questions they might have. I think this helps me to be a better leader and motivator.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they are aware of their management style
• - Awareness of how it may need to change in the future
• - Confirmation they are self-aware about their management style

Question Overview: This question will reveal if the candidate has a clear idea of where they want to go in their career.

Sample Answer: I'd like to be a supervisor within the next year. I know I need to work on my people management skills, so I've been taking a class on that. I'm also working on my presentation skills, because I know that's important for a supervisor.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have a plan for their professional development
• - Confirmation they are motivated to grow and learn
• - Indications they are aware of the skills they need to develop

Question Overview: This is a great question to ask if you're looking to hire someone who is motivated by your company's mission and values.

Sample Answer: I've been a big fan of ACME Marketing for years. I've read every blog post you've ever written and have been following your social media accounts for months. I really admire the way you've built a brand that is both innovative and authentic. I'm excited to join the team and help you continue to grow.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they are familiar with your company and its mission
• - Indications they are motivated by your company's values
• - Confirmation they are motivated by your company's mission

Question Overview: This is a broad question that will give you an idea of how the candidate has handled different situations in the past.

Sample Answer: I've had a lot of different work experiences. I started out as a receptionist at a small law firm, and then I moved up to being an assistant to the CEO. After that, I was a marketing assistant for a small publishing company. I've also worked as a freelance writer for a few years. I've learned so much from each role, and I'm excited to bring all of those skills to my new position at ACME Marketing.

What the interviewer is looking for:
• - Evidence they have worked in a variety of roles
• - Confirmation they have taken on new challenges over time
• - Indications they are able to adapt to new situations