1. Explain me why were you fired or let go from your last job?

Being terminated does not have to be an embarrassing or shameful thing. Be open and honest with the interviewer regarding your dismissal. Be sure to let the interviewer know that you can provide positive references despite a previous termination.

2. Tell us what questions do you have for me?

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from simply watching a video on their company site!

3. Tell me do you require any previous experience to become a Dispatcher?

No previous experience is required. However, good communications skills, computer skills and multitasking skills are essential to the job.

4. Explain me what Do You Recognize As Your Greatest Weakness?

This may be a somewhat challenging question, and if you had to answer that you have no weaknesses you would probably be viewed as been dishonest. When answering be realistic and perhaps mention a work-related flaw that is minor. Other ways to answer this question in a positive way would be to mention a weakness and then go onto say what you have done to improve on or overcome this weakness.

5. Tell me what makes you an ideal candidate for this position?

An ideal candidate for this position will have the right mix of experience, personal traits and education. Your answer should be short, but convey what sets you apart from the crowd. For example, “I'm dedicated to handling crisis situations with a high degree of composure and professionalism. I studied emergency management at ABC University and I spent four years working as an EMT. I feel I have the necessary traits and skills to be extremely effective in emergency situations.”

6. Explain me is there any opportunity for advancement?

Yes, there are three levels of dispatcher. Dispatcher 1 is the entry level, Dispatcher 2 is the basic level after completion of one year as a Dispatcher 1. Dispatcher 3 is the shift supervisor (Senior) and Level 4 is the Communication Chief that oversees the communication centers operations. When a Level 3 job opens, any Level 2 dispatcher that meets the minimum qualifications may apply. The same applies to Level 4 with the exception that only a Level 3 dispatcher may apply.

7. Tell us what Type Of Challenges Are You In Search Of With This Position?

This is a standard type of interview question to decide what you is in search of for your next career opportunity as well as if you would be an appropriate candidate for the available position. One of the better ways to answer this question would be discuss areas on how you would be able to use the experience and skills you have in an effective way if you were hired for this position. You may also want to mention how challenges motivate you and how you have the skills to meet up with challenges.

8. Tell me how Well Do You Handle Stress?

There is no denying that a dispatcher's job is a stressful one. Not only will you be responsible for ensuring that the correct agencies-police, fire, ambulance, first responders and others-are contacted and directed to the right address, but you will also be responsible for keeping the caller calm and providing instructions as necessary. You should be sure to provide an answer that details your methods for handling stress. “During my downtime, I meditate and do yoga to relieve stress. This way, I arrive for work feeling refreshed and ready to handle any situation that comes my way” is a great answer, as is “I practice deep breathing between calls to clear my head and prepare for the next call.”

9. Explain me what is your preferred type of working environment?

Your answer to this inquiry will tell the interviewer a lot about how you would fit in the established working environment. From your response to these types of dispatcher interview questions and answers, the hiring manager will gauge how well you can work with and lead others. Your reply should indicate that you are capable of being efficient in a team or when working alone. Additionally, you should show that you can lead others as well as follow depending on the demands of the situation.

10. Explain me why Are You the Most Qualified Candidate for the Job?

When you are asked about your qualifications, you should be sure to answer with a mix of your experience, education and personal qualities. As an example, saying something like “I am dedicated to helping individuals who are experiencing crises, so I studied emergency management at XYZ College for two years. I am certified in CPR and AED, and I worked as an EMT while I was attending college so I could become familiar with the requirements of the job. I feel that I would be an asset to the department because I have the ability to stay focused during extremely stressful situations” keeps your answer short, but it also shows your employer that you are well informed and ready to handle the job requirements.

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