February 17, 2022

Are you ready to impress recruiters during the Apple interview process? If you're looking to work for one of the biggest and most well-known companies in the world, you'll need to be prepared for their interview process. Apple is known for having a very tough recruitment process, so if you want to land that job, you'll need to prepare yourself well.

In this article, we discuss common Apple interview questions, tips on how to answer them properly, and tips on how to ace the entire interview process.

How to Answer Apple Interview Questions

Depending on the role you are applying for, you might encounter different Apple interview questions. Some Apple interviews are very formal, with many technical questions being asked. Other apple interviews can be more casual and informal, so you must be prepared for both scenarios. It's vital to read the job description for details on the sorts of questions you'll be asked.

Generally, Apple interview questions will test your knowledge of the company, the product, and your ability to think critically. Regardless of the position you're applying for; it's important to do your research.

If you are hesitant of the answer, be honest about it - but also follow up with something else that shows your understanding of the question or problem at hand and how you might approach solving it. You'll want to ensure that all apple interview questions are answered honestly and confidently.

Top Apple Interview Questions and Answers

Below are some apple interview questions and tips on how to answer them. Remember, be prepared for both formal and informal apple interviews!

What Is Your Favorite Apple Device? Why? 

This apple interview question tests your knowledge of the product, but it's also an opportunity to show off what you know about the company. Provide an answer demonstrating your knowledge of technology and how the product works and functions.

You can explain why not or what apple products are better than others in their class.

For example:

I like all of my Apple devices. They are reliable and make our lives easier; their functionality, features, capability, and integration with other Apple products are amazing. However, if I were to choose, I'd have to go with my Apple iPad because it's the most flexible apple product.

I can use it on the go, at home in front of my TV or computer screen as a second monitor, and even take it to work with me if needed. It has a lot of functionality that is great for productivity, like taking notes during meetings, making presentations from slideshows, and keeping track of my emails all at once.

Tell Me a Time When You Completely Failed. How Did You Bounce Back from Such an Experience?

This apple interview question will test your ability to handle and overcome obstacles. Be honest with your response, but don't give too much detail. For example, saying that you failed a class because you didn't study enough probably won't go over well if the job requires an extremely high level of intelligence or academic proficiency.

Instead, explain that you failed to meet a certain goal and provide information on the steps you took after that point to prove how you overcame failure. 

For example:

I once didn't land a promotion at work because I was unaware of the challenges one of my co-workers had been facing, which hindered their ability to complete their projects. After not receiving the promotion, I was disappointed, but I realized that it wasn't the end of the world. I knew what I should do to get better at my job and keep that promotion in sight for next time, like learning about employee concerns earlier on or creating backup plans for potential problems.

Tell Me a Time When You Disagreed with Your Manager. How Did You Deal With It? What Was the Outcome?

This apple interview question tests your ability to interact positively and effectively with authority figures. You'll want to choose an example where you disagreed on how something should be done, not a disagreement over company values or the like.

Be confident and provide examples of how you handled the disagreement and where it ended. Don't be afraid to take credit for your actions, as long as you can back up your claim.

For example:

I was working on a project with my manager, and it wasn't turning out the way she expected. I felt that the project should be completed my way, but she insisted on using another method. Then, I came up with a compromise that would ultimately get us what we wanted.

We used a different software that would still allow us to meet our deadlines, but we needed the flexibility. It worked out for both of us, and I learned not to be afraid to stand up for myself when doing what's best for the company.

Tell Me About a Time When You Resolved a Conflict between Two Employees. What Did You Do? Why?

This apple interview question tests your ability to handle tense situations and navigate the workplace without drama or disturbance. Pick a constructive example where you put yourself in someone else's shoes and acknowledge multiple perspectives before taking action.

For example:

I worked with two interns who had gotten into a very heated argument while working on a project together. I had to take in their perspectives and understand where they were coming from. I talked to both of them separately and heard each one's complaints.

After that, I got everyone together in a room together to talk it through, with me leading the discussion. We ended up finding areas where their interests intersected, and they were able to refocus their energy on the project.

Explain to an 8-Year-Old What a Modem and Router Are

This apple interview question tests your ability to communicate complex ideas in a simplified manner. Be sure to use easy language for an eight-year-old to understand without dumbing it down too much.

For example:

A modem is a machine that allows your computer to connect to the internet. A router is a special modem that connects multiple devices in your house to the same network, like computers and phones. They're made out of wires and other technology that you can't see, but they make life as we know it possible.

What Will You Miss Most about Your Present Job If You Accept an Offer from Apple?

This apple interview question tests your ability to stay positive and focus on the positives of your current work situation. Even if you're unhappy at your job, there's no need to speak negatively about it in an interview. Instead, frame your answer in a manner that shows Apple how much you appreciate what you currently have.

For example:

I'm grateful for the opportunities I've been given at my current job. I'll miss the people, and I'll miss the challenge of working on new projects. But Apple is an amazing company with a lot to offer, so I know it won't be long before I start missing my old job.

Common Apple Interview Questions

Now that you got a glimpse of the top questions Apple interviewers have for you, let's look at the most common interview questions based on categories.

Situational/Behavioral

These apple interview questions fall under the "get to know you better" category. They are meant to reveal qualities about your character and personal style, among other things. Here's a list of some common apple interview questions for this category:

1. Tell us about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer. 

2. How have you handled a difficult customer?

3. What is one accomplishment in your life that you are particularly proud of? Why

4. Which is more important for you, fixing a customer's problem or providing an exceptional consumer experience? Which do you think is more essential? Why?

5. What have you done to improve the company's public image? How successful were you?

Company-specific 

These apple interview questions are meant to assess your understanding of a company's goals, culture, and values. Here are some examples:

1. How would you describe our company's core values?

2. Why do you want to work for Apple?

3. If you could only use one of our products for the rest of your life, which would it be?

Technical/Skills-based

Apple interview questions like these are meant to assess your ability and readiness for the actual job. Here is a list of examples:

1. How will you design an app that helps people find new music they'll love?

2. What's one thing Apple could do to make its brand more appealing to teens?

3. What are three things you think every Apple product should have in common?

4. What are the steps for creating an app icon that meets our standards?

5. If you could design any feature for our products, what would it be and why?

General Competency-Based

Apple interview questions in this category ask for a general overview of your personality, character traits, and professional values. Here's a list of examples:

1. What is your dream job?

2. Why do you think you'll be successful here?

3. Where do you see yourself after five years?

4. Why do you think you'd be a good fit for Apple?

Leadership/ Management-Based

Apple interview questions in this category are meant to assess your ability to lead a team and make decisions. Examples follow:

1. Tell us about a time when you had an idea met with opposition from other employees. How did you handle the situation?

2. Describe a project wherein you were responsible for managing multiple teams across different locations. How did you do it?

3. If you were the head of an organization, how would your employees describe you as a leader?

4. What words best describe your leadership style?

Questions to Ask the Interviewers

Some apple interviews end with the interviewer asking if you have any questions for them. Here are some examples to help guide your conversation:

1. What is a typical day at Apple-like?

2. What skills and traits should a successful candidate possess?

3. Can you tell me more about the team I'll be working with?

4. What skills are necessary for this job?

5. What is the management style like at Apple?

How To Prepare for Apple Interview Process

If you are interested in working for Apple, preparing yourself for the interview process is critical. There are main things you must do to be fully prepared:

Research the Company

Know Apple's mission, core values, public image, and other information that makes up its brand. The more you know about the company as a whole, the better you can show why you are right for it. That being said, it's not necessary to memorize these facts word for word. Instead, you should have a general understanding of the company's direction and goals so that you can use them in your interview answers if the opportunity presents itself.

Learn about Apple Products

If some specific products or services are particularly relevant to your skillset or future position, be sure to familiarize yourself with them. Apple products and services are more than just "gadgets" – they have real-world applications for several industries, so it is important to demonstrate your readiness and knowledge about this area.

Prepare an Interview Strategy

As you consider what questions you may ask, develop an interview strategy that helps you anticipate the questions, just as customers plan out strategies to buy your products. For example, if there are specific areas of Apple's product line you want to focus on, be sure to include them in your strategy so they can best emphasize your qualifications. 

The same goes for following up on any information the employer provides during the interview – use that information to your advantage and be sure to include it in your strategy.

Ready to Ace the Apple Interview Questions?

Getting a job with Apple would be a dream come true for many. Unfortunately, it is not that easy to get your foot in the door and secure an interview. In fact, Apple receives more than a million applicants each year, so it's important to stand out to the hiring manager.

That's why you must always be prepared when going to an interview with Apple. The more you know about the company, their products and services, and your own qualifications for the job, the better off you will be. Recruitmently can help you prepare for the interview with Apple. Our top-rated recruiters can provide a wide selection of prepared interview questions that will help you ace the Apple interview process.

Stop worrying about Apple interviews and let the experts take care of the legwork for you. We have successfully placed many applicants in their dream jobs with the help of our dedicated recruiters, who can provide you with career advice, interview coaching, and more. Get Started Today!