Warehouse Manager Interview Questions

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Describe a few examples of efficiency improvements you have implemented throughout a warehouse. See answer
Have you worked with warehouse management systems or other warehouse technology tools? If so, which ones and with which warehouse functions did they assist? See answer
What exciting anticipated changes to the warehouse industry do you look forward to over the next five years or so? See answer
What is your managerial experience, and how many people have you managed in a warehouse in the past? See answer
Are you certified in hazardous materials, and if so, which certificates do you have? See answer
What’s your process for handling staffing needs on days where the warehouse is busier than usual?
Which management style do you prefer to use when leading and motivating your team members?
Do you use any task management tools to ensure you prioritize work items and meet tight deadlines?
What systems or plans do you put in place to control warehouse inventory levels?
Tell me about a time when you had to let an employee go. How did you handle this situation?
How do you resolve conflicts between two employees within your warehouse?
What’s the largest number of employees you’ve managed?
What factors do you consider when scheduling your employees’ shifts?
Tell me about a time when you made a difficult decision that upset your employees.

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6 Warehouse Manager Interview Questions and Answers

Q:

Describe a few examples of efficiency improvements you have implemented throughout a warehouse.

A:

The efficiency of a warehouse is essential to on-time shipments and customer satisfaction. Look for a warehouse manager who can improve the efficiency of a warehouse through the incorporation of technology, through redesigning the warehouse to eliminate wasted space and unnecessary steps, or through personnel. Each case will be different, but look for candidates who strive for greater efficiency.

What to look for in an answer:

Experience with forklifts, drones, software and other applications
Specific examples of implementing improvements
Quantitative data on the improvements

Example:

“I improved efficiency by 25 percent by incorporating drone picking for anything higher than the second tier of racking.”

Q:

Have you worked with warehouse management systems or other warehouse technology tools? If so, which ones and with which warehouse functions did they assist?

A:

This is an important question as warehouse management systems (WMS) are the cornerstone to well-operated warehouses. For the operations to run smoothly, you must know everything that is happening at all times and the exact location of all goods throughout the shipping, handling and storing processes. Look for candidates who use these systems to track inventory management, staging, picking/packing, auditing and more. The ideal warehouse manager candidate should have experience working with at least one type of WMS.

What to look for in an answer:

Names of WMS software and applications previously used
An understanding of the importance of a WMS
Specific WMS functions they’ve used

Example:

“My past employer used TECSYS WMS to manage inventory and all other warehouse activities. It was also integrated with other systems, such as our CRM.”

Q:

What exciting anticipated changes to the warehouse industry do you look forward to over the next five years or so?

A:

The warehouse industry is constantly evolving. With the incorporation of technology, this is occurring at an even faster rate. Warehouse managers should be prepared for and be knowledgeable about the upcoming changes to the industry. They should be thinking about the ways in which your business can benefit from the expected changes and the ways they will incorporate such advances into the everyday warehouse life.

What to look for in an answer:

Specific examples of upcoming changes
Enthusiasm for change and recognition of the benefits
Understanding of the impact of technology on the warehouse industry

Example:

“It is an exciting time in the warehouse industry for further integration of automation and improvement of picking and packing times. I see this as having a huge positive impact on how warehouses operate and how they are managed.”

Q:

What is your managerial experience, and how many people have you managed in a warehouse in the past?

A:

Despite the growing use of automated technology in warehouses, warehouse managers will still be required to manage people and to work with others. If they have not previously had a managerial role, in some instances, candidates with alternative managerial skills can be good leaders. Such alternative skills might include the ability to give presentations, create policies and more.

What to look for in an answer:

Ability to communicate well
Leadership skills
Previous experience in training and managing others

Example:

“My managerial experience involves seven direct reports and training higher-ups on our WMS. Also, I attend at least one industry conference each year.”

Q:

Are you certified in hazardous materials, and if so, which certificates do you have?

A:

This is an important question because most warehouses will work with at least a few hazardous materials in raw material or as final goods. Warehouse managers must know the best ways to do so. They don’t necessarily require certification; however, they should understand the special steps that must be taken to ensure the safety of all people on site and in the vicinity of any dangerous good.

What to look for in an answer:

Understanding of what hazardous materials are
Knowledge of how to store, handle, package and ship any hazardous material
Willingness to update dangerous goods training as required

Example:

“I have completed training courses in hazardous materials for warehouse management, and I would like to complete additional certificates as part of my continued education and to maintain my certification.”

Q:

What's your process for handling staffing needs on days where the warehouse is busier than usual?

A:

Warehouses typically shift between busier and slower days. This can depend on the season, new product orders or special discounts and sales. Impressive warehouse manager candidates should understand this and have experience developing strategies to prepare for days when more staff is needed to remain efficient and productive. Look for a candidate who plans ahead for these situations and can clearly demonstrate this strategy in their interview.

The candidate's answer should emphasize:

Ability to predict busier warehouse shifts
Task delegation and management skills
Clear process for meeting warehouse staffing needs

An answer to this question could look like this:

Example:

"In my experience as a warehouse manager, I've learned to track our busiest seasons are so I can plan employees' shifts accordingly. I typically schedule my team several weeks in advance and notify them that they'll be working extra shifts for a few months before the holidays, as that's when we're usually the busiest. I'll also maintain an ongoing relationship with the sales and marketing teams to ensure they notify me of any upcoming product sales so I can schedule my team ahead of time to prepare for this incoming influx of work."

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