Here's how you can showcase logical reasoning skills in an Automotive Manufacturing job interview.

The basics of engineering be it mechanical, electrical or mechatronics, definitely helps strengthen once foundation for structuring and aligning to the automotive industries expectations. Learning with examples the lean principles to help reduce NVA and to be effective in manufacturing processes definitely strengths once presence in the automotive field

Focus on your understanding of basic manufacturing concepts and share specific examples of how you used these ideas to solve problems. For example, talk about a time you improved production efficiency or set up a system to reduce defects. Explain how you used logical thinking to make decisions that led to positive results, either by saving money or boosting productivity for the org. Also, mention any lessons you’ve learned from past projects and how you’ve used them to get better. This will demonstrate your ability to apply what you have learnt to real-world challenges and adapt to new situations.

Usually, we like to be prepared for an interview and that’s fine, but in doing so we forget that’s important to show our logical thinking. So first it’s OK to acknowledge that we don’t know all the answers, or at least we won’t have all the answers to take out from a hat! So, when faced with logical question we don’t have to rush, we can calmly take a step back, repeat the question or rephrase it to make sure we understand it, and even ask for more information to fill in the blanks. Only then you should answer showing a step-by-step logical answer, as far as your knowledge on the matter, or as far as the information provided, can take you. Don’t strive for perfection in your answers, instead show you’re OK when faced with challenges!

Providing specific examples is an effective way to show your LR skills, Interviewers appreciate candidates who can clearly illustrate their understanding through examples. They want to see how you break down problems logically, solve them step-by-step, and integrate those solutions for the best outcome. This demonstrates your structured approach to problem-solving. For instance, discuss how you addressed a quality control issue in a previous role. Describe how you systematically identified defects, traced them to specific manufacturing stages, and used LR to redesign those stages to prevent future issues. Emphasize your use of data and logical thinking to ensure product quality, showcasing your ability to enhance processes effectively.

Ideally when an opportunity is made available for problem solving, it's imperative to ensure the root cause of the problem is identified. To aid these processes for problem solving, methods such as 8D analysis, Fish bone diagram are few of the approaches for the same.

It is always imperative to drive once experience in the industry into the process of being a critical thinker. By conscious practice of the thought processes whilst discussing on a focused subject always helps bring to the surface the way of critical thinking.

You can show critical thinking by sharing examples of how you carefully analyze information and challenge existing assumptions. Talk about times when you analyzed data and explored different options before making a decision, like choosing suppliers or improving manufacturing processes. Explain how you considered the impacts of your choices and involved others to get different viewpoints. Highlight the positive results from your approach and how you’ve learned from these experiences.

One may demonstrate decision-making skills by talking about real examples where he/she had made tough choices, like halting a production line for quality issues or qualified selection of suppliers. Explain how you made these decisions by looking at the data, getting input from your team/experts, and thinking about the long-term impact for the organization. Highlight the positive results of your decisions and any lessons you learned. This will demonstrate that you can make smart, and well-considered decisions using available resources quickly.

Make sure to communicate effectively by being clear and straightforward in your answers, avoiding technical jargon, and explaining any complex concepts simply. Use a structured approach like the STAR method (may check for specific guidelines from organization, if any available) to organize your responses, keeping them coherent and focused. Listen carefully to the questions, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if needed. Tailor your examples to fit the job role and maintain a professional and confident demeanor through your tone, body language, and eye contact. Also, come prepared with thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, which shows your genuine interest in the role and engagement.

Highlight your logical reasoning skills by focusing on the basics and tailoring your approach to the job level. Make sure you understand core manufacturing processes and can discuss how you’ve applied this knowledge practically. For junior roles, be honest about your current experience and emphasize your eagerness to learn and solve problems with the skills you have. The interviewer is likely more interested in how you approach challenges and apply your reasoning rather than your detailed knowledge. Show how you think through problems and adapt your solutions. Finally, emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and growth. Demonstrate that you’re proactive about developing new skills and tackling new challenges.