Acing Your Herc Rentals Interview: Top Questions and Answers to Prepare

Interviewing at Herc Rentals can seem intimidating given the company’s scale and reputation. As the leading equipment rental provider in North America Herc has high standards for customer service and performance.

Understanding what to expect in the interview process is key to showcasing your relevant skills. In this article, I’ll overview common Herc Rentals interview questions with example responses. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and ready to land the job!

About Herc Rentals

First, let’s recap some background on Herc Rentals. The company was originally called Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation before rebranding as Herc Rentals in 2016. It emerged after Hertz’s equipment rental division was acquired by private equity firms.

Today, Herc Rentals operates over 275 locations across North America. The company rents equipment for construction, industrial, government, and event clients. Its fleet includes aerial lifts, power tools, air compressors, and more.

Herc Holdings, the parent company of Herc Rentals, brings in over $2 billion in annual revenue. With scale comes an emphasis on standardized processes and metrics-driven performance. Going into your interview, understand this results-focused culture.

Herc Rentals Hiring Process

The standard Herc Rentals interview process consists of:

• Submitting an online application
• Phone screening with a recruiter
• In-person interview covering behaviorals and situational questions
• Meeting with the hiring manager
• Potential second interview to meet other team members

Some operational roles may also involve an equipment testing or skills assessment. This comprehensive process evaluates both cultural fit and functional abilities. Come prepared to demonstrate your customer service mindset and work ethic.

Common Herc Rentals Interview Questions and Answers

Let’s look at some of the most frequently asked Herc Rentals interview questions, along with example responses:

Question: Why do you want to work for Herc Rentals?

This question tests your understanding of their industry and brand. Research the company beforehand and highlight your alignment with their values.

Example: I’m excited by Herc Rentals’ leadership in equipment rental and desire to join such a pioneering company. Your focus on employee development and customer satisfaction through top-notch service resonates with my own priorities. I’m drawn to Herc’s commitment to safety and operational excellence. I know I would thrive and grow my career at an innovative, metrics-driven company like Herc.

Question: How would you handle an unhappy customer?

Herc Rentals staffers must be able to diffuse tense situations. Show you can de-escalate problems while keeping a friendly tone.

Example: When handling an upset customer, I first listen calmly to understand why they are dissatisfied. I express empathy for their situation and then apologize sincerely for the inconvenience. Next, I ask questions to clarify the exact source of unhappiness and determine if it’s within my power to resolve immediately. If so, I take action to fix the issue, such as adjusting their rental terms or fees. If I need to involve a supervisor for greater authority, I assure the customer I am passing the problem to someone equipped to help. Following up afterward is critical, so the customer knows we addressed their concerns and improved the situation.

Question: Tell me about a time you exceeded a customer’s expectations.

Stellar service creates Herc Rentals fans for life. Share an example highlighting your dedication to each client’s complete satisfaction.

Example: Recently, a long-time client was frustrated as a rented compressor wasn’t operating properly for their job site. They assumed they would have to wait for a replacement delivery. However, I know downtime can severely impact construction schedules. I worked with our operations manager to immediately dispatch another compressor from a nearby branch. I also coordinated a technician to inspect the malfunctioning unit so the client could get a refund. The client was extremely grateful we prioritized their project’s progress and took initiative to surpass expectations. Having the chance to create Herc Rentals fans through service like this motivates me.

Question: How do you stay up-to-date on equipment and inventory availability?

Knowledge and preparation are crucial in this business. Discuss the systems and processes you would use to remain current.

Example: I understand inventory availability and specifications change constantly in equipment rental. To stay current, I would leverage Herc’s inventory management software daily to view our branch’s fleet, availability, and key specs like power output. I would also take initiative to complete all equipment-specific training modules to learn the details of each offering. To update my knowledge, I would converse regularly with operations staff who handle maintenance and restocking. They often have the first insights into changes. Lastly, I would subscribe to industry newsletters and blogs related to our rental categories to keep up with model announcements, upgrades, recalls, and discontinuations that may impact inventory.

Question: How do you prioritize when managing multiple customers or projects?

Organization is vital in this fast-paced industry. Provide tactics for staying focused when multitasking.

Example: In my experience, clear communication and detailed project plans allow me to effectively prioritize across multiple clients and assignments. When taking on new rentals, I confirm deadlines and milestones with each customer. I create a master project plan that outlines key dates, equipment specs needed, my team’s responsibilities, and customer POCs. To stay organized, I use tools like Asana to track progress and flag any risks. Daily standup meetings keep our team aligned. If any scope changes risk deadlines, I immediately consult the customer and reconfirm expectations. My process ensures customers get clear updates and critical projects stay on track.

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Herc Rentals Interview

Beyond preparing answers to common questions, you should think holistically about your skillset as it relates to Herc Rentals’ needs:

• Customer orientation – Give examples of how you build rapport and trust with a diverse customer base. Your focus should be on their needs.

• Equipment knowledge – Fluency with equipment brands, specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting shows your capability.

• Dependability – In equipment rental, deliveries happen on tight timelines. Highlight your reliability.

• Collaboration – This business requires coordinating across many internal and external stakeholders. Provide examples of teamwork.

• Multitasking – Share how you juggle competing priorities while remaining focused on customer satisfaction.

If you can speak to these competencies with confidence, you will impress the interviewers.

Questions to Ask Herc Rentals During Your Interview

The interview is also your chance to assess if Herc Rentals is the right company for you. Bring thoughtful questions that show your engagement with their business. Some options to consider asking:

• How do you support employee growth and development? Are there opportunities for advancement or lateral moves within Herc?

• What are some of the biggest challenges facing your location currently? How is leadership aiming to address those challenges?

• What does success look like for this role in the first 60-90 days? How do you measure new hire onboarding and training?

• How would you describe Herc’s culture? What is unique about working here?

• What traits do your top performers on the team exhibit? How are star employees recognized or rewarded?

Smart questions like these will leave a positive impression on your interviewers.

How to Prepare for Your Herc Rentals Interview

These tips will instill confidence as you prepare:

• Research the company – Study their website, press releases, reviews, and equipment offerings.

• Practice interview questions – Rehearse example stories ahead of time to feel polished and natural.

• Review your resume – Refresh yourself on your own qualifications and achievements so you can elaborate easily.

• Prepare smart questions to ask – Writing them out shows extra effort.

• Dress professionally – Neat, tidy attire makes a solid first impression.

• Arrive early – Give yourself extra time to sign in and get settled.

By doing your homework on Herc Rentals and practicing responses, you will wow interviewers with your preparation. With a strategic approach, you can land your next equipment rental role!