Asking this question in an interview makes sure that your 857335895production supervisor10.13supervisor7.65manufacturing3.66manufacturing supervisor3.19production manager2.8378647387824432000.0072995.91130000.00YEARLY2949852922025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05production supervisor candidate understands the manufacturing side of the job. When you ask this question, you can get them to tell you about any machinery, equipment and processes they are aware of. This helps you to find out if the candidate has the knowledge they need to properly supervise production and train new employees. What to look for in an answer:

• Familiarity with production equipment
• Experience with manufacturing
• Ability to do more than just supervise others

This question tells you about the technical skills that the candidate has. Asking them to tell you a little about what they thought of the product instead of just having them list software names lets you assess how proficient the applicant actually is. If their answer indicates that they like the applications your company already uses, they are more likely to be a good fit for the position. What to look for in an answer:

• Ability to learn multiple software types
• Willingness to use technology
• Knowledge of what software is helpful at your workplace

Not every position will need to include this question, but if you are looking for someone to supervise production in the food industry, it is essential. Asking about hazard analysis and critical control points lets you see whether or not the candidate is aware of regulations for keeping consumables safe. Discussing methods to apply the HACCP system lets you learn a little about how the supervisor would function at work. What to look for in an answer:

• Extensive knowledge of HACCP principles
• Recognition of the importance of keeping food safe
• Ability to uphold HACCP with workplace policies

During the interview, you need to use this question to learn a little about the candidate’s supervisory skills. It is helpful because it shows you how the person would supervise in a challenging situation. This question helps you discover their general style and see if it will complement your company’s goals. It also allows you to learn whether the candidate values building employee relationships or meeting production goals. What to look for in an answer:

• Desire to boost employee performance
• Ability to tactfully give negative feedback
• Focus on solving the problem, not punishing the employee

This question is an important test of a person’s ability to supervise. As a 857335895production supervisor10.13supervisor7.65manufacturing3.66manufacturing supervisor3.19production manager2.8378647387824432000.0072995.91130000.00YEARLY2949852922025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05production supervisor, they will need to have the diplomacy to navigate a lot of workplace politics and deal with strong personalities. How they reply to this question can tell you whether they have the firmness and confidence needed to lead a team of employees. Their response also gives insight into their ability to solve problems. What to look for in an answer:

• Interest in following company policies for conflicts
• Desire to improve workplace environment
• Firmness and no-nonsense attitude

Production supervisors oversee employees on a production floor in addition to equipment and work processes, so being able to maintain compliance with relevant safety laws, regulations and policies is an essential skill. An employer can use this question to identify candidates with the experience and skills to maintain a safe working environment. An ideal production supervisor candidate will articulate a good strategy to fix safety issues.

A candidate's answer should emphasize:

• Awareness of the need to comply with safety rules
• Ability to connect with a worker even during a difficult situation
• Leadership, problem-solving and communication skills

An example answer to this question can look like this: