20 WestRock Interview Questions and Answers

When you go to an interview for a position at WestRock, you can expect to be asked questions about your experience in the corrugated packaging industry, as well as your knowledge of the company and its products. In addition, you may be asked questions about your problem-solving skills and your ability to work in a fast-paced environment. To help you prepare for your interview, we have compiled a list of sample questions and answers that you can use to practice your responses.

WestRock Interview Process

The interview process at WestRock can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like Customer Service Representative, you will have a board interview that will test your ability to work with people and make decisions. For other positions, like Material Handler or Line Worker, the interview will be more focused on your experience and skills. Overall, the interview process is quick and efficient, and most applicants report having a positive experience.

1. What do you know about WestRock?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to see how much you know about their company. It’s important that you do your research before going into an interview, and this is one of the best ways to show that you’re prepared. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about WestRock that you learned from your research.

Example: “I know that WestRock has been in business since 1882. I also know that they have over 30 locations across the United States. I’m excited to learn more about the history of the company as well as what makes them unique.”

2. In your opinion, what are the most important qualities for a successful machine operator?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have experience working with machines and equipment. You can list qualities such as attention to detail, problem-solving skills, teamwork and communication skills.

Example: “The most important quality for a successful machine operator is patience. Machine operators need to be able to work slowly and carefully when operating machinery because it’s easy to make mistakes if you rush. Another important quality is communication. Machine operators should always let their team members know what they’re doing so everyone stays safe. Finally, I think it’s important to have good math skills because many of the tasks we perform require us to do some basic calculations.”

3. Do you have any experience working with machinery in the past?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your experience with machinery and how you handle working with it. If you have previous experience, share what kind of machinery you worked with and why you were comfortable using it. If you don’t have any experience, you can talk about your comfort level around machinery and how you would like to gain that experience if hired.

Example: “I’ve never worked in an industrial setting before, but I am very comfortable around machinery. In my last job, I was responsible for maintaining all of our office equipment, including computers, printers and copiers. I also had to troubleshoot issues when they arose, which required me to research solutions online or call tech support.”

4. How would you define a good leader?

This question is a great way to assess your leadership skills and how you would apply them in the workplace. A good leader should be able to motivate their team members, communicate effectively and solve problems when they arise. When answering this question, try to provide examples of what makes a good leader and how you can apply those qualities to your own work ethic.

Example: “A good leader is someone who motivates others to do their best work. They are also someone who can communicate clearly with their team members so everyone understands their role and responsibilities. I believe that leaders should also be problem solvers because there will always be challenges that need to be addressed.”

5. If hired, how can you demonstrate that you will be an effective leader at WestRock?

WestRock is a company that values leadership and teamwork. Your answer should show the interviewer how you can contribute to these two aspects of WestRock’s culture.

Example: “I believe that effective leaders are those who have strong communication skills, empathy and problem-solving abilities. I am committed to developing my leadership skills by continuously learning from others and challenging myself to take on new projects. In my previous role as an operations manager, I was able to implement several changes that improved efficiency and reduced costs for my team. These improvements led to our department being recognized as one of the most productive departments in the company.”

6. Why do you want to work at WestRock?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know what you like about WestRock and why you’re excited to work there. To answer this question, think of two or three things that really stood out to you when researching the company. Explain how these aspects would benefit you as an employee.

Example: “I’ve always been interested in working at a corrugated packaging company because I find it fascinating how they can create such strong boxes from paper. When I was looking into WestRock, I saw that you have some of the most innovative products on the market. I’m very excited to be part of a team that’s constantly pushing the envelope.”

7. How can we motivate employees to go above and beyond their job responsibilities?

This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership skills and how you motivate employees to achieve goals. Use examples from previous jobs where you motivated your team members to work hard and exceed expectations.

Example: “I believe that motivating employees is all about showing them appreciation for their hard work. I have found that when people feel appreciated, they are more likely to go above and beyond their job responsibilities. At my last job, we had a goal of shipping out 100 boxes per hour. To motivate my team, I created a competition between each department to see who could ship out the most boxes in one hour. The winning team got a pizza party.”

8. Tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward. How did you approach the problem?

This question can allow you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and how you approach challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward.

Example: “At my last job, I worked with a team of engineers who were tasked with creating a new type of corrugated box. The company wanted the boxes to be more environmentally friendly than their current ones. However, we didn’t know exactly what would make them more eco-friendly. So, our team decided to brainstorm ideas for making the boxes more eco-friendly. We came up with several different options, including using recycled materials or biodegradable materials. After discussing each option, we decided on using recycled materials.”

9. What do you think are drivers of success for maintenance technicians?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can contribute to success. You may want to mention some skills or qualities that are important for technicians, such as attention to detail, problem-solving skills and communication abilities.

Example: “I think a technician’s ability to communicate with other employees is very important because it allows us to share information about what we’re doing and ask questions when needed. I also believe that having good time management skills is essential because there are often many tasks to complete in a day. Finally, I think it’s important to have strong technical skills so that you can perform repairs efficiently.”

10. Can you tell me about a time when you were working on a team project and there was conflict, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to see how you handle conflict in the workplace. It’s important that your answer shows that you can work with others and resolve issues.

Example: “I was working on a team project for my marketing class, and we were tasked with creating an ad campaign for a local business. My group member wanted to create a campaign based around social media influencers, but I disagreed because I felt it wasn’t a good fit for the company. We had a long discussion about our ideas, and eventually, we came up with a compromise where we would use influencers as part of a larger campaign.”

11. We value creativity at WestRock. Give an example of a time where you used creative thinking to overcome an obstacle or improve a process.

This question is an opportunity to show your potential employer that you have the ability to think outside of the box and come up with innovative solutions. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific details about how your creative thinking helped solve a problem or improve a process.

Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with finding ways to reduce our company’s carbon footprint. After brainstorming for several days, I came up with the idea of using recycled materials in our packaging. This would allow us to save money on production costs while also reducing our environmental impact. We implemented this new policy, which saved the company thousands of dollars each year.”

12. Are you comfortable working overtime if needed?

Working overtime is a common practice in the workplace. Employers ask this question to make sure you are willing to work extra hours when needed. In your answer, explain that you are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Explain that you understand working overtime can be necessary at times.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable with working overtime if needed. I know sometimes there are projects that need to be completed by a certain deadline. If that means working late or coming in early, then I am happy to do so. I understand that sometimes these situations arise and we have no choice but to work overtime.”

13. What is one thing that you believe sets you apart from other candidates?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are confident in your abilities and have a unique skill set. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what makes you different from other candidates and how those qualities would benefit WestRock.

Example: “I believe one thing that sets me apart from other candidates is my ability to work well with others. I am always looking for ways to help others succeed and make sure everyone on my team feels supported. In my last role, I noticed that some of my coworkers were struggling with their workloads. So, I volunteered to take on more projects so they could focus on learning new skills.”

14. What does customer service mean to you?

WestRock is a customer-focused company, so it’s important that you understand the importance of providing excellent service to customers. When answering this question, explain how your definition of customer service aligns with WestRock’s values and mission statement.

Example: “Customer service means making sure every customer has an exceptional experience when they interact with our brand. I believe in treating each customer as if they are my best friend because their happiness is what keeps us in business. At my last job, we had a motto that said ‘the customer is always right,’ which helped me remember that no matter what, the customer should be treated with respect.”

15. What skills do you have that would make you successful as a manager at WestRock?

WestRock is a company that values leadership and management skills. They want to know what you can bring to the table as a leader in their organization. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your communication, problem-solving and organizational skills.

Example: “I believe my ability to communicate effectively with others would make me successful as a manager at WestRock. I am always able to clearly explain complex ideas to my team members and clients. This skill has helped me resolve many issues before they become major problems. My ability to solve problems quickly also makes me an effective leader. I have extensive experience working on projects where there are multiple moving parts.”

16. What is the most challenging aspect of this position?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you are aware of the challenges of this position and how you would overcome them. When answering, be honest about what you find challenging but also highlight your skills and abilities in overcoming these challenges.

Example: “The most challenging aspect of this position is working with a team on projects. I am used to being independent and doing my own work, so it can be difficult for me to delegate tasks or ask for help when needed. However, I have learned that asking for help from others is important because it allows everyone to learn new things and develop their skills.”

17. What kind of work schedule are you looking for?

This question is a way for the interviewer to learn more about your availability. They may be looking for someone who can work overtime or weekends if needed, so it’s important to answer honestly and explain any limitations you have.

Example: “I am available to work any shift as long as I get at least one day off per week. I prefer working during the daytime because I find that I’m most productive then, but I understand that sometimes we need to work nights or weekends. I am happy to do whatever is best for the company.”

18. Describe a situation where you weren’t able to finish a task, what happened?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you handle challenges. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about what happened but also highlight the steps you took to resolve the issue.

Example: “I once had an assignment that I was unable to finish because of a family emergency. I spoke with my professor immediately after learning about the situation and explained why I wouldn’t be able to complete the assignment on time. My professor understood and allowed me to submit the assignment at a later date.”

19. What are some ways that we can show appreciation for our interns?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are willing to go above and beyond for the company. Show them that you want to make an impact on their organization, even as an intern.

Example: “I think it’s important to thank interns for their hard work. I would suggest having monthly lunches where we can discuss our projects and get feedback from senior members of the team. This will help us learn more about what they expect from us and how we can improve.”

20. At WestRock, we like to promote within. What is your long term career goal?

This question is an opportunity to show your interest in the company and how you plan to grow within it. When answering this question, think about what skills you have that would be beneficial to WestRock and how they could help you achieve your career goals.

Example: “My long term goal is to become a manager at a corrugated packaging company. I’ve been working toward this for several years now, and I feel like WestRock would be a great place to continue my growth as a professional. I’m excited by the idea of being part of a team that values employee development and advancement.”