Government jobs hold immense value due to their stability, benefits, and contribution to public service. Given the wide range of government jobs that are open, how can you be sure that the questions you use to hire people are the best way to find the right person for the job?
Because we help people get interviews, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 questions that government agencies, like local governments and city and state-wide groups, ask. See what our partners in HR ask in their government interviews.
In the fast-paced world of elected officials, getting a job requires planning, poise, and a deep understanding of what the job entails. We’ve put together a complete guide with sample interview questions, useful tips, and professional advice to help you ace your next interview.
Understanding the Interview Process
The interview process for elected positions can be different depending on the job and the area in which it is located. But it usually takes more than one round, such as phone interviews, in-person interviews with hiring managers, and possible tests or presentations. Prepare to show how much you know about the job, how much you want to help people, and how well you can communicate with a variety of stakeholders.
Sample Interview Questions and Effective Answers
1. Please tell us why you are interested in [this position] for [this organization]. What special qualities, skills, and interests would you bring to the position? And why are you interested in working for [this organization]?
Answer:
“I’m deeply passionate about advocating for [cause] and believe that [this position] presents an incredible opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of [constituents]. My background in [relevant field] has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively address the challenges facing [organization] and implement impactful solutions. Moreover, I’m drawn to [organization]’s commitment to [values] and believe that my values and vision closely align with yours.”
2 Give us an example of a project you were responsible for where you were less than satisfied with the results. What did you learn from the experience? What would you do differently now, and how would that change the outcome?
“In a previous role, I led a project aimed at [goal]. While we made progress the final outcomes didn’t fully meet our expectations. I learned the importance of setting clear and measurable objectives from the outset and ensuring that everyone involved has a thorough understanding of the project’s goals and timelines. In future projects I would prioritize open communication, regular progress assessments, and a willingness to adapt strategies based on feedback and emerging challenges.”
3. Please give us some information about your experience making formal presentations in a public setting. Tell us about a particularly volatile situation you’ve been involved with and how you managed it. What do you think are keys to providing controversial information in a public setting?
Answer:
Example:
“I’ve had the opportunity to deliver presentations to various audiences, including city council meetings, community forums, and stakeholder gatherings. In one instance, I was presenting a proposal that faced significant opposition from a vocal group within the audience. I maintained my composure, actively listened to their concerns, and addressed their questions with respect and clarity. By acknowledging their perspectives and providing factual information, I was able to foster a more constructive dialogue and ultimately gain support for the proposal.”
4. Hypothetical: A City Council member approaches you as the new [position] with a dynamite idea to [fill in]. You recognize the project is a good idea, but don’t believe it is in the current plans. How would you handle this situation?
Answer:
Example:
“Thank you for sharing your innovative idea. I recognize the potential benefits of [project] and appreciate your enthusiasm. However, given the current budget constraints and our focus on [existing priorities], implementing this project as proposed might not be feasible. I would be happy to explore alternative approaches or modifications that could align better with our current plans while still achieving the desired goals. I’m confident that through collaboration, we can find a solution that benefits both the community and the organization.”
5. With any new job, a new employee discovers that certain portions of the job match very well with existing strengths and other portions present real opportunities for new learning and building new skills. Based upon what you know about the [position], where would you expect to excel, and what part of the job would present you more of a challenge?
Answer:
Example:
“Based on my understanding of the [position], I believe my strengths in [relevant skills] would enable me to excel in areas such as [specific responsibilities]. However, I recognize that areas like [specific areas] might present opportunities for me to develop new skills and expand my knowledge base. I’m a highly motivated learner and am eager to take on new challenges that will allow me to grow professionally and contribute effectively to the team.”
6. Describe your experience [fill in]. Please be specific as to what your actual tasks and responsibilities were.
Answer:
Example:
“In my previous role as [previous position], I was responsible for [specific tasks and responsibilities]. I successfully managed a team of [number] employees and oversaw projects with budgets of [amount]. I implemented new strategies that resulted in [specific achievements], such as [quantifiable results]. I’m confident that my experience in [relevant area] has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this position.”
7. Hypothetical: You are the new [position]. In one of your first projects for the [organization], you work with a [customer] that is very competent, professional, and fun to be around. He seems to also enjoy your company. About a month after completing the project, the customer stops by [the worksite] and asks you to go to a Mariners game with him the following weekend. How would you handle this situation?
Answer:
Example:
“I appreciate the invitation and enjoyed working with you on the recent project. I value maintaining a professional boundary, but I’m happy to connect with you outside of work in a different setting, such as a networking event or a casual lunch. I believe it’s important to maintain professionalism and avoid any potential conflicts of interest, but I’m always open to building positive relationships with colleagues and clients.”
8. Tell us about your experience managing a successful [fill in] project. What made the project successful, and what role did you play in accomplishing that success?
Answer:
Example:
“In my previous role, I led a project to [goal]. The project was successful due to [factors contributing to success], such as [specific examples]. I played a key role in [specific contributions], which resulted in [quantifiable outcomes]. I’m proud of my contributions to this project and believe it demonstrates my ability to effectively manage complex projects and achieve desired results.”
9. When you think of diversity in a workplace, what comes to mind? What do you think is the value of diversity in the workplace?
Answer:
Example:
“When I think of diversity in the workplace, I envision an environment where individuals from different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences are valued and respected. Diversity brings a wealth of knowledge, skills, and ideas to the table, fostering creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities. In my previous
Government employees are representatives of the community they serve. Look for candidates who understand the importance of public outreach and community engagement. Their response should demonstrate a proactive approach to building positive relationships and addressing community needs. Candidates with these qualities will fit into the culture of working for a government organization.
This question serves as an excellent icebreaker and allows candidates to highlight their relevant experience in government organizations. Pay attention to your candidates’ passion for public service and their ability to communicate their achievements.
What is the star method when interviewing?
The STAR method is a structured manner of responding to a behavioral-based interview question by discussing the specific situation, task, action, and result of the situation you are describing .
How do you prepare for a political interview?
Think about what kinds of answers you want. Know what they have said before on that topic and what they have promised to do. Know what their critics and opponents think. SHARE TOPICS, NOT QUESTIONS: Sometimes politicians and/or their staff will ask for a list of questions ahead of the interview. Don’t do that!
How do you answer a job interview question?
An interviewer asks this question not only to see how comfortable you are with the role but also to see how in-depth you have researched the position and its responsibilities. Your answer should demonstrate that you understand the specific title and its required job duties.
What questions should you avoid when interviewing a government agency?
You should avoid answers related to pay or perks. This question is also used to gauge what you know about the government agency you are interviewing with. Example: “I’ve always been drawn to opportunities that allow me to serve other people.
What are the best interview questions?
To help give you some ideas for the next time you’re screening candidates, here is a checklist of 12 of the best interview questions. by Samantha Wagner, director of outreach, ICMA How would you describe your work ethic? Who is someone you admire in the profession? What are your strengths?