20 Herman Miller Interview Questions and Answers

Herman Miller is a leading manufacturer of office furniture and related products. The company’s products are used in offices, hospitals, schools, and homes around the world. Herman Miller is also a major provider of furniture to the US government.

If you’re applying for a job at Herman Miller, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of Herman Miller interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Herman Miller Interview Process

The interview process at Herman Miller can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one phone interview and one in-person interview. For some positions, there may also be a panel interview. The difficulty of the interviews will depend on the position you are applying for. Overall, the interview process is generally positive, although some candidates have reported feeling ghosted after the interview process.

1. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone who was difficult.

This question can help an interviewer determine how you handle conflict and challenging situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you worked with someone who was difficult but also highlight your ability to work well with others.

Example: “I once had a coworker who would often make fun of me in front of other employees. I tried my best to ignore his comments, but eventually I decided that I needed to address the situation. I asked him if he could stop making jokes about me because they were starting to get on my nerves. He apologized and said he didn’t realize how annoying his jokes were. After our conversation, he stopped making jokes about me.”

2. How do you think Herman Miller can be more innovative?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the company and how you can contribute to its success. Use examples from your experience that highlight your creativity, problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “I think Herman Miller could be more innovative by encouraging employees to share their ideas. I have seen this work in my previous role where we had a suggestion box for anyone to submit their idea. The best ideas were then discussed at our weekly meetings so everyone knew about them. This led to many new projects and ways of working. Another way Herman Miller could be more innovative is by hiring more diverse staff. Having different perspectives would lead to more creative solutions.”

3. What is your experience working in a manufacturing environment?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience working in a manufacturing environment. This can help them determine if you have the skills and knowledge needed for the position. Use your answer to highlight any previous work experience that is relevant to the job.

Example: “I worked as an assembly line worker at a furniture factory for three years before I started my current role as a quality control inspector. In my assembly line position, I learned how to use tools like power drills and sanders to build furniture pieces. I also gained valuable experience inspecting furniture for defects and making sure they were ready for shipment.”

4. Can you tell us what makes you qualified for this role?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel they align with the job. Before your interview, make a list of all your skills and experiences that relate to the position. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and abilities.

Example: “I have five years of experience in customer service roles, which has given me excellent communication and problem-solving skills. I am also highly organized and detail-oriented, which makes me great at following instructions and meeting deadlines. My previous work experience is directly related to this role, as I worked for Herman Miller for two years before moving to my current company.”

5. Describe a time when you worked on a project that required creativity.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you use creativity in the workplace. When answering, think of a time when you used your creativity to solve a problem or complete a task.

Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with creating an ad campaign for our company’s new line of office chairs. The client wanted us to create something that would appeal to both young professionals and older executives. I decided to focus on the idea of ‘recharging’ at work. I created several ads featuring people using Herman Miller chairs while working on their laptops, reading books or even taking a nap. The client loved the concept, and we ended up winning the account.”

6. Why should we hire you over the other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. Before your interview, research the job description to see what skills they’re looking for in a candidate. Use examples from your resume or past experiences to show that you have these skills.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate because of my attention to detail and ability to work well with others. In my last role as an office manager, I noticed that our team was having trouble collaborating on projects. So, I started weekly meetings where we discussed our progress and any challenges we were facing. This helped us communicate better and collaborate more effectively. As a result, our department became one of the most productive.”

7. Do you have any experience with engineering design, testing or management?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can apply it to this role. If you have experience in any of these areas, explain what you did and why it’s relevant to this position.

Example: “I’ve worked as a quality assurance engineer for five years now, so I’m familiar with all aspects of engineering design and testing. In my current position, I test products before they’re released to consumers to ensure they meet safety standards and are free from defects. I also work with engineers to develop new products based on customer feedback.”

8. Are there any specific skills you would like to develop at Herman Miller?

This question is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the position and highlight any skills you may not have that would be beneficial in this role. This can also be a chance to demonstrate how you are already developing these skills, such as taking classes or reading books on the subject.

Example: “I am always looking for ways to improve my communication skills. I recently took a public speaking class where I learned some great techniques for overcoming stage fright. I think it’s important to share what I’ve learned with others, so I plan to start a speaker series at my next job. Another skill I’d like to develop is time management. I find myself getting distracted by social media during work hours, which makes me feel guilty but doesn’t help me get my work done.”

9. If hired, how would you handle an angry customer?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a time you had to handle a difficult customer or client in the past.

Example: “I have experience with handling angry customers at my current job as a sales associate at a local furniture store. One day, I was helping a woman who was looking for a new desk chair. She wanted something that would support her back but also look stylish in her home office. After trying out several chairs, she wasn’t happy with any of them. I asked her what exactly she was looking for and then showed her some other options. We eventually found one that met all of her needs.”

10. What are some of your favorite products from Herman Miller?

This question is a great way to see if you have experience with the company’s products. It also allows you to show your passion for Herman Miller and its offerings. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list several of your favorite products from the company. You can even include some that are not necessarily Herman Miller but still made by Steelcase.

Example: “I really love the Aeron chair because I find it very comfortable. I also like the Embody chair because it has so many features that make it unique. I’ve used both chairs in my previous roles and found them to be excellent options. Another product I really enjoy is the Mirra 2 chair. This chair is lightweight and easy to transport, which makes it perfect for those who work in multiple locations.”

11. What is one thing you would change about our company?

This question is a way for the interviewer to see how you would fit in with their team. They want to know that you are going to be an asset and not someone who will cause problems or discord among employees. When answering this question, it’s important to focus on something positive about the company and show your willingness to work hard to make changes.

Example: “I think one thing I would change about Herman Miller is the amount of vacation time employees get. I understand that there are some positions where more vacation time is needed, but overall, I think everyone could use a little more time off. I would like to start a movement within the company to encourage people to take at least two weeks off per year.”

12. Would you consider yourself a creative person?

Employers ask this question to see if you have the creativity and imagination needed for a role in design. They want to know that you can come up with new ideas, solve problems creatively and use your skills to create beautiful designs. When answering this question, show that you are creative by giving an example of a time when you used your creativity to complete a task or project.

Example: “I definitely consider myself a creative person. I’ve always enjoyed art and design, so it was natural for me to pursue a career in architecture. In my last job, I had to redesign a floor plan for a client who wanted to add more space to their home without making it feel too big. I started by sketching out some different ideas on paper, then moved onto creating 3D models using computer software. After looking at all of my options, I decided to move one wall to open up the kitchen area.”

13. If hired, what kind of manager style would you prefer?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your management style and determine if it aligns with their expectations. It’s important to be honest about what kind of manager you would prefer to be, but also consider how that might fit in with the company culture.

Example: “I believe I am an effective communicator who can motivate my team members by being approachable and open to feedback. I think it’s important to give employees autonomy over their work while still providing guidance when needed. I’m not sure if this aligns with Herman Miller’s management style, but I’d like to find out more.”

14. Have you ever managed a team before?

This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership skills and how you might fit into their company culture. If you have previous management experience, share a few examples of how you managed your team to achieve goals or improve processes. If you haven’t had management experience before, you can still discuss any other leadership roles you’ve held in the past.

Example: “I’ve been managing my own freelance design business for the last five years. I started with one employee but now have a full staff of designers who work remotely. In this role, I’m responsible for hiring new employees, setting schedules and creating budgets. I also manage client expectations by clearly communicating project timelines and ensuring that all projects are completed on time.”

15. What do you know about our company?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to see how much research you’ve done on their company. It’s also an opportunity for you to show that you’re genuinely interested in working for them. Before your interview, make sure you read up on Herman Miller and learn about its history, products and current initiatives.

Example: “Herman Miller was founded by D.J. De Pree in 1923. He started the company with his wife after he lost his job as a furniture salesman. The company began selling furniture from the back of a truck but eventually grew into one of the most innovative companies in the industry. Today, it’s known for its ergonomic designs and sustainable practices. I’m very excited to work for such a forward-thinking company.”

16. How well do you perform under pressure?

Employers ask this question to see if you can handle pressure in the workplace. They want to know that you are able to complete tasks and meet deadlines even when there is a lot of stress. Use your answer to show how you have handled stressful situations in the past and what strategies you used to overcome them.

Example: “I am someone who thrives under pressure, so I actually enjoy working on projects where there is a tight deadline. In my previous role as an interior designer, I was often tasked with completing large-scale projects within a short amount of time. While it was challenging at times, I always managed to stay organized and prioritize my work to ensure I met all of my client’s needs.”

17. What do you think is the most important part of being a good leader?

This question is a great way to show your leadership skills and how you can apply them in the workplace. When answering this question, it’s important to be specific about what makes a good leader and why those traits are so important.

Example: “I think one of the most important parts of being a good leader is having empathy for others. I’ve worked with leaders who were very empathetic and always made sure that everyone was comfortable and happy at work. They also listened to their employees’ ideas and opinions, which helped us all grow as individuals and as a team.”

18. What qualities make a good salesperson?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your sales skills and how you apply them in a work environment. Use examples from your previous experience that show the interviewer what makes you a good salesperson.

Example: “A good salesperson is someone who can listen to their customers, understand their needs and provide solutions. I have always been able to do this because of my ability to empathize with others. In my last position, I worked with a customer who was looking for ergonomic chairs but didn’t know where to start. I asked her questions about her job and what she liked and disliked about her current chair. Then, I showed her several different Herman Miller chairs that would fit her needs.”

19. Give an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are willing to go the extra mile for customers. It also shows them how you can help their company grow and succeed. When answering this question, think of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer and helped them achieve success or solve a problem.

Example: “I once had a client who was having trouble with his chair’s armrests. He said they were too high for him to use comfortably. I offered to come to his office after hours so he could try out a different chair. After trying it out, he decided to buy the new chair. This allowed me to make a sale and provide excellent service to my client.”

20. What type of work culture do you thrive in?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine if you would be a good fit for the company’s culture. When answering, it can be helpful to describe what type of work environment you prefer and why. You can also mention any specific values that align with those of Herman Miller.

Example: “I thrive in an open-door policy where I can speak freely about my ideas and concerns without fear of being reprimanded. I am someone who prefers collaboration over competition, so I find that working in a team setting is most beneficial for me. I like to have frequent check-ins with my manager to discuss how I’m doing at work and whether there are any areas I could improve on.”