HR Templates | Sample Interview Questions
General Manager Interview Questions and Answers
Use this list of General Manager interview questions and answers to gain better insight into your candidates, and make better hiring decisions.
General Manager overview
When interviewing for a General Manager position, it's crucial to assess leadership skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage diverse teams. Look for candidates who can demonstrate a balance of empathy, decisiveness, and a knack for problem-solving.
Sample Interview Questions
How do you prioritize your tasks when everything seems urgent?
Purpose: To understand their time management and prioritization skills.
Sample answer
“I use a combination of the Eisenhower Matrix and a daily to-do list to ensure I'm focusing on what's truly important and not just what's urgent.
Can you share a time when you turned around a struggling team?
Purpose: To gauge their leadership and team-building abilities.
Sample answer
“I once took over a team with low morale and high turnover. By implementing regular one-on-ones and team-building activities, we improved our performance metrics by 30% within six months.
How do you stay updated with industry trends and changes?
Purpose: To see if they are proactive about staying informed and adaptable.
Sample answer
“I subscribe to industry newsletters, attend webinars, and participate in relevant LinkedIn groups to stay ahead of the curve.
How do you handle conflicts within your team?
Purpose: To assess their conflict resolution skills.
Sample answer
“I believe in addressing conflicts head-on with open communication and finding a win-win solution for all parties involved.
What's the most innovative idea you've implemented in your previous role?
Purpose: To evaluate their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Sample answer
“I introduced a flexible work schedule that increased productivity by 20% and improved employee satisfaction.
How do you measure success in your role?
Purpose: To understand their metrics for success and goal-setting abilities.
Sample answer
“I measure success through key performance indicators like revenue growth, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction.
How do you ensure your team is aligned with the company's vision and goals?
Purpose: To see how they communicate and align their team with broader company objectives.
Sample answer
“I hold regular team meetings to discuss our progress and how our work contributes to the company's overall goals.
️ How do you approach problem-solving when faced with a major challenge?
Purpose: To evaluate their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Sample answer
“I break down the problem into smaller, manageable parts and involve my team in brainstorming solutions.
What books or resources have influenced your management style?
Purpose: To understand their influences and commitment to personal growth.
Sample answer
“Books like 'Leaders Eat Last' by Simon Sinek and 'The Lean Startup' by Eric Ries have significantly shaped my management approach.
How do you celebrate team successes?
Purpose: To see how they recognize and reward their team's hard work.
Sample answer
“I believe in celebrating both big and small wins, whether it's through team outings, shout-outs in meetings, or small tokens of appreciation.
🚨 Red Flags
Look out for these red flags when interviewing candidates for this role:
- Lack of specific examples or achievements.
- Inability to articulate a clear vision or strategy.
- Poor communication skills.
- Negative attitude towards previous employers or teams.
- Inflexibility or resistance to change.