20 SGS Interview Questions and Answers

When interviewing for a position at SGS, be prepared to answer questions about your experience with inspection, verification, testing, and certification. The interviewer will also want to know why you are interested in working for SGS and what you know about the company. In addition, be prepared to discuss your problem-solving skills and how you would handle a situation if you were unable to complete a task.

SGS Interview Process

The interview process at SGS can be quite long, with multiple interviews and assessments. However, it is generally a good process up until the final interview. At that point, some candidates have reported not hearing back from the company, even after follow-up attempts. This can leave a bad impression of the company, especially after investing a lot of time and effort into the process.

What kind of questions can I expect?

Questions in the interviews can range from technical questions about your experience and skills to behavioral questions. Some candidates have also been asked about their goals and plans for the future. It is important to be prepared to answer both types of questions.

overall, how was the experience?

Overall, the experience seems to be positive. Many candidates report feeling comfortable during the interviews and finding the interviewer easy to talk to. However, some candidates have found the process to be very long and drawn out.

1. What do you know about SGS?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company. It also allows you to show that you have done some research on the organization and are familiar with its history, products and services. When answering this question, it can be helpful to include information about SGS’s founding, locations or any awards the company has won.

Example: “SGS was founded in 1878 by Henry Amiel as Société Générale de Surveillance. The company started out as an inspection service for French railroads. In 2000, the company changed its name to SGS Group. Today, SGS operates in over 130 countries and employs more than 70,000 people.”

2. Tell me about your past experience working as a lab technician, what was your favorite part of the job?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you have experience working in a lab and can talk about your past job with enthusiasm. When answering this question, try to focus on what you enjoyed most about your previous job and how it helped you develop skills that will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “My favorite part of my last job as a lab technician was getting to work with different types of equipment every day. I really enjoy learning new things, so being able to use new machines each day kept me engaged and excited to come into work. Another thing I loved about my job was the opportunity to learn from other technicians. My coworkers were always willing to answer questions or teach me something new.”

3. How would you handle an irate customer who is demanding immediate results?

This question is designed to assess your customer service skills. It’s important for SGS employees to be able to communicate effectively with customers and provide them with the information they need in a timely manner.

Example: “I would first apologize to the customer for any inconvenience or delay in results. Then, I would explain that we are working as quickly as possible to complete their request. If there is anything else I can do to help them, I will offer it. For example, if they need an extension on their deadline, I will work with my manager to see what options we have available.”

4. Why are you interested in this position with SGS?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your background and why you are the best candidate for this role. When preparing for this question, think of what attracted you to this position and how it aligns with your career goals.

Example: “I am interested in this position because I have always been passionate about quality assurance and testing. In my previous roles, I was responsible for ensuring that products were safe for consumers and met all industry standards. This led me to pursue certification as an ISO auditor, which has helped me develop my skills even further. I believe that SGS would be a great place to continue developing my skills and helping companies create high-quality products.”

5. Describe your leadership style and how it relates to the company culture at SGS.

SGS is a global company with many locations and employees. The interviewer wants to know how you would lead your team if hired. Use examples from past experiences where you’ve had to manage others or projects.

Example: “I believe in being an approachable leader who can be available for my team members at all times. I also think it’s important to delegate tasks so that everyone has the opportunity to learn new skills and take on more responsibilities as they grow within the company. In my last position, I was promoted to manager after only two years of working there. My leadership style helped me build strong relationships with my team and create a culture of trust and respect.”

6. How do you think technology has changed the inspection industry?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your knowledge about how technology has changed industries and how you might use it to benefit SGS. Use examples from your experience with using technology in your inspection work, such as software or apps that have helped you complete tasks more efficiently.

Example: “Technology has completely transformed the way we do inspections. In my last position, I used an app called Field Force Manager to organize my team’s workflow and track our progress on each project. This allowed me to delegate tasks among my team members and monitor their performance. It also gave us all access to important documents like client contracts and safety procedures.”

7. Do you have any certifications that pertain to the field?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you are qualified for the position. If you have certifications, list them and explain what they entail.

Example: “I do have several certifications in my field of expertise. I am certified as an OSHA 10-hour trainer, which allows me to train employees on safety procedures. I also have a Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response certification, or HAZWOPER, which allows me to work with hazardous materials. Finally, I am a Certified Environmental Professional, or CEP, which means I can perform environmental testing.”

8. Do you feel comfortable using a computer for most of your day-to-day work?

SGS is a technology-driven company, and the interviewer may want to know if you have experience using computers for work. If you don’t have much computer experience, explain what type of training you would need to learn how to use the software they use.

Example: “I am very comfortable using computers for my day-to-day work. I’ve been working with computers since high school when I took an advanced placement course in computer science. Since then, I’ve worked as a freelance web designer and developer, so I’m familiar with many different types of software.”

9. Have you worked with large teams before?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with a large team and how well you work with others. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any teamwork skills or soft skills that helped you succeed in your previous role.

Example: “In my last position, I worked as part of a larger team of engineers who were all focused on different projects. We had weekly meetings where we discussed our progress and challenges. This allowed us to share ideas and learn from each other. It also gave us an opportunity to ask for advice when needed. In one instance, I was having trouble with a project and asked another engineer for some advice. He explained his process and provided me with some resources that helped me complete the project.”

10. What is one thing you like about SGS?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have done some research on the company. It also allows you to highlight something about SGS that you admire and want to be a part of. When answering this question, make sure to choose something specific about the company rather than general information.

Example: “I like how SGS has been around for over 100 years and continues to grow. I think it’s impressive that they are able to maintain their reputation while still innovating and improving their services. I would love to be a part of a company with such a rich history.”

11. Are you familiar with laboratory equipment such as balances, titrators, pH meters, etc.?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your knowledge of laboratory equipment and how you use it. If you have experience using this type of equipment, describe what you know about it in detail.

Example: “I’ve used titrators, pH meters, balances and other lab equipment before, but I’m not as familiar with them as I am with some other types of equipment. However, I can learn quickly if needed. In my last job, we had to test water samples for different elements, so I learned how to use a titrator to measure the amount of calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium in each sample.”

12. Can you tell us about a time when you had to make decisions without consulting your supervisor first?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you make decisions and whether or not you have experience making important choices on your own. Use examples from previous work experiences to show that you are capable of independent thought and action.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for managing a team of inspectors who were in charge of inspecting food products at various locations across the state. One day, one of our inspectors called me with concerns about some of the equipment they were using during their inspections. The inspector said it seemed like the equipment wasn’t working properly, but they weren’t sure if they should continue using it or report it to management.

I told them to bring the equipment back to the office so we could inspect it ourselves. We found that the equipment had been damaged by an employee who didn’t know how to use it correctly. After reporting this information to management, I made sure all of our employees received training on proper equipment usage.”

13. What is your approach to solving problems?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you approach challenges. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your critical thinking, analytical and reasoning skills.

Example: “I believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. When I encounter a problem at work, I first try to understand what caused it and who else is affected by it. Then, I develop a plan of action based on my understanding of the situation and the resources available to me. Finally, I implement my solution and monitor its progress until the issue is resolved.”

14. How much experience do you have handling chemicals?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your comfort level with working in a laboratory environment. If you have no experience handling chemicals, explain that you are willing to learn and develop the necessary skills. If you do have experience, describe what types of chemicals you’ve worked with and how comfortable you were using them.

Example: “I have never handled any dangerous or hazardous chemicals, but I am eager to learn more about it. In my previous position, I was responsible for maintaining inventory of all chemicals used by our team. I would check stock levels daily and order new supplies when needed.”

15. How well do you communicate with others?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with your team and other professionals. Showcase your communication skills by describing a time when you had to communicate information to others in an effective way.

Example: “I have always been someone who enjoys speaking in front of groups, so I volunteered to give presentations in my high school history class. This helped me develop my public speaking skills and learn how to effectively communicate information to large groups. In my current position as a quality assurance specialist, I often have to speak with clients about their concerns or questions regarding our services. I find that being honest and straightforward is the best approach for communicating with them.”

16. Would you consider yourself organized?

This question is a great way to determine how well you can manage your time and prioritize tasks. When answering, it’s important to show that you have the ability to stay organized and keep track of many projects at once.

Example: “I would definitely consider myself organized. I’ve always been someone who likes to plan ahead and make sure everything is in its place. This has helped me immensely throughout my career as I am able to complete tasks on time and ensure they are done correctly. In fact, I find organization to be one of my greatest strengths.”

17. Are you able to lift 50 pounds or more?

This question is asked to determine your physical capabilities. You may be required to lift heavy objects during the course of your work, so employers want to make sure you can do this safely and effectively. In your answer, explain that you are physically capable of lifting 50 pounds or more. If possible, provide an example of a time when you lifted something heavy in the past.

Example: “I am able to lift 50 pounds or more with ease. I have done it many times throughout my career as a warehouse worker. One time, I was tasked with moving large boxes from one location to another. It took me several trips, but I was able to move all of them without any help.”

18. Give me an example of a time where you demonstrated integrity at work.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have the integrity they’re looking for in an employee. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a specific situation where you had to make a tough decision and how you handled it.

Example: “In my previous position as an environmental inspector, I was inspecting a construction site when I noticed one of the workers wasn’t wearing proper safety equipment. I approached him about it, and he told me his supervisor said he didn’t need to wear it because he only needed to work on one part of the project. I explained to him that if he didn’t follow all safety regulations, we would shut down the entire job site until he did so. He understood and put on the required gear.”

19. Do you have experience managing employees?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have management experience and how you might handle managing a team of employees. If you don’t have direct management experience, consider describing your leadership skills or any other experiences that helped you manage people in the past.

Example: “I’ve never had to manage an entire department, but I do have experience leading small teams. In my last position as a quality assurance manager, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of our product testing process. This included hiring new testers, training them on company procedures and ensuring they were performing their jobs correctly. It also involved making sure we met deadlines and adhered to company standards.”

20. What qualities do you look for in a manager?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you would be a good fit for their company. When answering, it can be helpful to mention qualities that are important to you and how they relate to your career goals.

Example: “I look for managers who are organized, detail-oriented and empathetic. These qualities have helped me in my previous roles because I am able to stay on top of projects and understand what my team members need from me. Empathy is also an important quality for me as a manager because it helps me better understand my team’s needs and concerns.”