There are many kinds of dispatchers like police dispatchers, traffic dispatchers, truck or bus dispatchers, fire and ambulance dispatchers. For every different field the skills required might also differ. Usually the general work of a dispatcher includes scheduling and dispatching workers, passengers, equipments and materials. They can also be called for installing equipments, emergency repairs and other normal services. Dispatchers have to receive and respond to calls, keep logs and schedules for calls and also schedule control and monitor transportation vehicles.
So, now let me tell you about some of the most common questions that can be asked by your employer during the dispatcher interview.
1. What made you apply to be a public safety dispatcher?
The work of a dispatcher is usually very hectic and it requires a lot of concentration and hard work, I applied for the job of a public safety dispatcher because I like challenges and working under pressurized environments. According to my view a public safety dispatcher position would obviously help me to grow and develop as a better human being.
2. What are your greatest weakness and your greatest strength?
This is very general question asked in most of the interviews. While answering it you need to be very honest and clear. Some answers that are frequently given for weaknesses include no previous experience, lack of hobbies or not being a bilingual. Strengths can include ability to work under pressurized environments, being a workaholic, skillful in meeting deadlines and well versed in scheduling, controlling and managing tasks efficiently.
3. Tell us about the responsibilities and work of a dispatcher?
The dispatcher post involves a routine job and the responsibilities include scheduling, and dispatching materials, workers and equipments, receiving and responding to emergency calls, keeping records and data, monitoring and controlling situations, they also need to use radio, computer or a calculator to compile statistics and make reports on work progress.
4. What are the essential skills that should be possessed by a dispatcher?
There are numerous skills that a dispatcher should possess. Some of these skills include knowledge about public service activities, should be very well versed in English and other local languages, they would be skilful in operating various communication equipments, they should possess the ability to meet tight schedules, and respond to the caller in emergency situations and should be able to control, co-ordinate and manage various tasks.
These are some of the most frequent questions that are asked in a dispatcher interview.
