Associate Interview Questions

Can you tell us about a time when you had to collaborate with a team to achieve a common goal? How did you handle any challenges that arose during the project?

This question allows the hiring manager to understand your ability to work well with others and your problem-solving skills. As an Associate, you will likely be working on various projects with a team, so the interviewer wants to assess how you handle challenges and conflicts in a collaborative environment. Your response can highlight your communication skills, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure to achieve a common goal. It also gives the interviewer insight into your past experiences and how you approach problem-solving.

As an associate at my previous company, I was part of a team responsible for launching a new product line. We had a tight deadline and everyone had specific tasks to complete. However, during the project, we faced unexpected delays from our suppliers. To handle this challenge, I suggested that we split the workload and prioritize the most critical tasks first. I also coordinated with other departments to see if they could lend a hand. By effectively communicating and delegating tasks, we were able to overcome the delays and successfully launch the product on time. This experience taught me the importance of teamwork and adaptability in achieving a common goal.

How do you prioritize and manage your workload in a fast-paced environment? Can you give an example of a time when you had to multitask and prioritize your tasks?

This question allows the hiring manager to understand your time management skills and ability to handle a high volume of work. As an associate, you will likely have multiple tasks and projects to complete within a set deadline, so the interviewer wants to know if you can effectively prioritize and manage your workload. Your response can demonstrate your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle pressure. Sharing a specific example will also showcase your problem-solving abilities and how you handle challenging situations.

In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize my workload by first identifying urgent tasks and deadlines. I then create a to-do list, breaking down each task into smaller, manageable steps. I also delegate tasks when necessary, ensuring that everyone on the team is working efficiently. An example of when I had to multitask and prioritize was during a busy sales week. I had multiple client meetings, a report due, and a team project to work on. I managed my time by setting specific time blocks for each task, focusing on the most pressing matters first, and delegating some tasks to my team members. This allowed me to meet all my deadlines and successfully handle the workload.

What do you consider to be your biggest strength as an Associate? How have you utilized this strength in your previous roles?

This question allows the interviewer to assess your self-awareness and your ability to identify and utilize your strengths. It also provides insight into your past experiences and how you have applied your strengths to contribute to the success of a team or organization. Additionally, your response can help the interviewer determine if your strengths align with the requirements of the position and if you would be a good fit for the company culture.

As an Associate, my biggest strength is my attention to detail. I have always been someone who pays close attention to small details and this has served me well in my previous roles. For example, in my previous job as a Marketing Assistant, I was responsible for proofreading and editing various marketing materials. My attention to detail allowed me to catch any errors and ensure that the final product was of the highest quality. Additionally, my attention to detail has helped me to excel in tasks that require a high level of accuracy, such as data entry and recordkeeping. I believe that this strength has contributed to my success as an Associate and will continue to do so in the future.

Avison Young values personal and professional growth. How do you actively seek opportunities for growth and development in your career?

The hiring manager wants to know if the candidate has a growth mindset and is proactive in seeking out new opportunities for learning and development. This question also allows the candidate to showcase their self-motivation and drive for success, as well as their ability to plan and set goals for their career advancement. It also gives insight into the candidate's understanding of the company's values and their alignment with them.

I strongly believe in continuous learning and self-improvement, and I actively seek out opportunities for growth and development in my career. I regularly attend industry conferences and workshops, and I make an effort to network with professionals in my field to gain new insights and perspectives. I also take advantage of any training or educational programs offered by my employer. In addition, I set personal goals for myself and seek out challenging projects or tasks that will help me develop new skills and knowledge. By staying proactive and open to learning, I am able to continuously grow and improve in my career.

In the commercial real estate industry, strong interpersonal skills are essential. Can you give an example of a time when you had to navigate a difficult conversation or conflict with a client or colleague? How did you handle the situation?

This question allows the interviewer to assess the candidate's ability to communicate effectively and handle conflicts in a professional manner. In the role of an associate, the candidate will likely have to work with various clients and colleagues, and being able to navigate difficult conversations and conflicts is crucial for maintaining positive relationships and achieving successful outcomes. The response to this question can also demonstrate the candidate's problem-solving skills and their ability to remain calm and composed under pressure.

In my previous role as an associate at a commercial real estate firm, I encountered a difficult situation where a client was unhappy with the terms of a lease agreement. They were becoming increasingly frustrated and aggressive in their communication with me. Instead of responding with anger or defensiveness, I took a deep breath and remained calm and professional. I actively listened to their concerns and empathized with their perspective. I then proposed potential solutions and negotiated with them until we reached a mutually beneficial agreement. Ultimately, my ability to remain composed and effectively communicate diffused the conflict and strengthened our relationship.