A chief operating officer is often called on to perform difficult tasks in the company. While the CEO is the person who is out front, the chief operating officer is often viewed as the "hatchet man." The ideal candidate can handle these situations with some dexterity and sensitivity. They need to show that they can execute tough jobs and keep the situation under control to minimize any possible employee discontent. What to look for in an answer:

• Evidence that the candidate can handle unpopular tasks
• Skills in corporate diplomacy, especially with employees
• Tact in handling tough situations

The chief executive officer is the ultimate boss of the company. The chief operating officer, while a prominent part of management, works under the CEO. You will want to see to what extent that this candidate is the proverbial "good soldier." The company will want their senior management to be loyal and to carry out orders. But you also want to know that the chief operating officer has a conscience. What to look for in an answer:

• Multi-dimensional thinking that spots issues and knows diplomacy
• Evidence of sensitivity dealing with the boss
• A strong ethical compass

The chief operating officer will have the overall responsibility for a large number of corporate tasks. They handle much of the day-to-day operations of the company. Oftentimes, the chief operating officer will be called upon to provide leadership in solving complex problems. This will mean overcoming various resistance, whether it is systemic or in the form of lack of support. You will want to know that the candidate is resourceful. What to look for in an answer:

• Persistence in the face of numerous challenges
• Evidence of the ability to think creatively
• Skills in handling sensitive issues

The chief operating officer must deal with many powerful people within the company. While the chief operating officer does have some power, there are also vested interests in the company that may resist some corporate initiatives. The chief operating officer must often deal with these interests with skill. You will want to see that the candidate is able to build consensus and achieve the necessary results in a harmonious fashion. What to look for in an answer:

• Complex projects that involve multiple parts of the company
• Large-scale corporate projects overseen
• Extensive skills in communication and explanation

Sometimes, a job candidate is best when they know what they do not know. You do not want a candidate who says that they know everything because that means a lack of self-awareness. Admitting that they do not know something is also a sign of humility, which is valuable in a chief operating officer. You also want to know how a candidate speaks of an area that gives them trouble. What to look for in an answer:

• Evidence of self-awareness and knowledge of weaknesses
• A willingness to ask for help when necessary
• The ability to learn

Some chief operating officers prefer to focus on keeping costs manageable or even reducing them. Philosophically, other candidates try to focus on efficiency and keeping operations running. It is helpful to know the candidate’s way of thinking to make sure that they fit the corporate culture. It will not be helpful to have someone focused on efficiency above all else if the company primarily values cost control. What to look for in an answer:

• A definite philosophy on cost control
• The ability to articulate priorities and focus
• Right fit with the corporate priorities

The chief operating officer will make some changes to how your company works. It is their job. You want to get an idea of how they see changes and implement them. When you get a concrete example of what the candidate does, you understand how they think and how they get things done from start to finish. What to look for in an answer:

• A demonstrated record of tangible accomplishments
• The ability to act on ideas
• Evidence that the candidate is a visionary

This question is intended to find out how much leeway the chief operating officer will give employees to do their jobs. You will want to know how the candidate can strike a balance between corporate oversight and delegating to employees when necessary. The right candidate can set the overall tone for the organization and the conditions for success and will then be able to delegate and let employees shine. What to look for in an answer:

• Sound philosophies on management
• The ability to trust employees to do their job
• Skills at getting the most out of employees

Chief operating officers are responsible for monitoring business operations across departments and making necessary changes to improve productivity factors. Their ability to identify trends in employee performance and other factors ensures a functional and prosperous business. This question allows interviewers to gauge whether a candidate understands potential problems that hinder successful operations and how they address those problems. A candidate's answer should emphasize:

• Communication skills
• Leadership capabilities
• Investigative nature