1. How do you motivate staff as Logistics Manager?

Motivation is a key management requirement, and your answer should stress strong values like positive reinforcement for performance, training in higher duties, and other incentives.

2. Tell me where do you expect to be in five years' time?

This is another question that allows you to show off your employer research and your understanding of your chosen career path. You'll want to come across as enthusiastic, but not arrogant. Tailor your response to reflect the nature of the organisation, the sector, and your own experiences and skills. Specific details will impress.

3. Tell us what are your weaknesses or areas you would like to improve?

This is another frequently asked question. Everyone has weaknesses, but when answering this question in a job interview, stay away from personal qualities and focus on professional traits. Describe what steps you taken to overcome your weaknesses so that you can demonstrate areas of improvement.

I am always working on improving my communications skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters which I find very helpful.

4. Tell us what do you bring to our business, in terms of values?

This is an open ended question, and you can use it very effectively as a statement of your abilities. You will need to address each area of the logistics manager job's responsibilities, showing strong values and experience in each area.

5. How do you manage your time and priorities tasks as Logistics Manager?

When a recruiter asks how you manage your time, don't just give an example of a time when you did this successfully. Your interviewer wants to know your tactics and strategies for getting yourself organised, so whatever approach you use to prioritising and listing your tasks, you should be ready to describe it.

6. Why should we hire you as Logistics Manager?

Be prepared for this question because this answer will sell your story. Know clearly what you bring to the organization such as your knowledge, skills, experience, education/training and personal qualities that demonstrate why you are the best person for the job. Be able to show how you add value to the company. Always qualify your answers with quantifiable results you have achieved in previous jobs or assignments. This will add tremendous credibility!

I think I am a great match for this position. My degree in management coupled with more than 10 years of experience managing 100+ employees and delivering top notch training, helped me to improve staff productivity by 30% and reduce employee turnover. I believe that I can do the same for your organization and would be a great addition to your team.

7. Tell us how do you promote Occupational Health and Safety in the workplace?

OHS is critically important in all areas of supply chain work. You need to cite a working example of full OHS awareness programs, including training where required.

8. Why do you think you will be successful in this job as International Logistics Manager?

This isn't an invitation to boast - you are being asked to match your strengths to the qualities needed to do the job. Don't forget, it's a very specific question. Why are you suited to this job, as opposed to any other? Thorough employer research will save the day, as it will enable you to match your skills, interests and experience to the job role and the company.

9. Explain an example of a time when you handled a major crisis?

Feel free to reframe the question. This is similar to asking 'Can you give an example of a time when you had to cope with a difficult situation?' or 'Give an example of a time when you had to cope under pressure'. However, 'crisis' is a much stronger, more emotive word. You may find it easier to give an example if you think back through your work experience, study, extracurricular activities and travel and come up with a time when you had to cope with an unexpected problem.

10. Ask if you have any questions?

Always be prepared to ask the interviewer a few questions as well. This helps to demonstrate your preparation and interest.

Sample questions might include:

☛ How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
☛ Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
☛ How would you describe the company's management style?
☛ Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?
☛ How many people work in this office/department?
☛ Is travel expected in this position? If so, how much?
☛ What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
☛ What would you say are the best things about working here?
☛ Would you like a list of references?
☛ If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?

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