CDK Global Business Intelligence Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

CDK Global is a leading provider of technology solutions for the automotive industry, focused on simplifying and enhancing the customer experience through effective data management and analytics.

The Business Intelligence role at CDK Global involves working within an enterprise applications data and analytics transformation team. As a Business Intelligence Analyst, you will engage in the full lifecycle of data management, from gathering and documenting requirements to designing and implementing analytical solutions. Key responsibilities include collaborating with various departments such as Sales, Finance, and HR to understand business needs, participating in scrum teams, and developing user stories for implementation teams. Proficiency in SQL is crucial, as you will be expected to write complex queries and optimize performance across various databases, including Oracle, Postgres, SQL Server, and Snowflake. Additional skills in low-code BI tools, particularly Power BI, and familiarity with data governance and integration tools like Alation and Boomi will be essential.

To excel in this role, a positive attitude, attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a large organization across different time zones are vital. This guide will help you prepare for your interview by highlighting the key skills and experiences that align with CDK Global's values and business processes, enabling you to present yourself as a strong candidate.

The interview process for a Business Intelligence role at CDK Global is structured and thorough, designed to assess both technical and interpersonal skills. The process typically unfolds in several stages, ensuring candidates are well-evaluated for their fit within the team and the company culture.

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial screening, usually conducted by a recruiter. This is a phone interview where the recruiter will discuss your resume, gauge your interest in the role, and assess your general fit for the company. Expect questions about your background, experience with business intelligence tools, and your understanding of data analytics.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates typically undergo a technical assessment. This may include a coding test or a series of technical questions focused on SQL, data analysis, and database management. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their proficiency in writing complex SQL queries, understanding database structures, and discussing their experience with data warehousing solutions like Snowflake or Oracle.

3. Technical Interviews

After successfully passing the technical assessment, candidates will participate in one or more technical interviews. These interviews are often conducted by team members or managers and focus on specific technical skills relevant to the role. Expect questions related to data integration, performance tuning, and the use of BI tools such as Power BI. Candidates may also be asked to solve real-world problems or case studies related to data analytics.

4. Managerial Interview

The next step typically involves a managerial interview, where candidates meet with a hiring manager or team lead. This interview assesses not only technical skills but also soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Candidates should be ready to discuss their previous projects, how they handle challenges, and their approach to collaborating with cross-functional teams.

5. Final HR Interview

The final stage of the interview process is usually an HR interview. This is where candidates discuss salary expectations, benefits, and company culture. HR may also ask behavioral questions to evaluate how well candidates align with the company's values and mission. This is an opportunity for candidates to ask questions about the company and clarify any concerns they may have.

Throughout the interview process, candidates should be prepared to provide examples of their work, including writing samples or code snippets, as well as demonstrate their analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Next, let’s explore the specific interview questions that candidates have encountered during this process.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Understand the Interview Structure

The interview process at CDK Global typically involves multiple stages, including a recruiter screening, technical interviews, and a managerial round. Familiarize yourself with this structure and prepare accordingly. Expect a mix of behavioral and technical questions, with a heavier emphasis on technical skills, particularly SQL. Knowing the flow of the interview will help you manage your time and responses effectively.

Prepare for Technical Proficiency

Given the emphasis on SQL in the role, ensure you are well-versed in writing complex SQL queries, including joins, views, and performance tuning. Practice common SQL problems and be ready to discuss your past experiences with databases like Oracle, Postgres, and Snowflake. Additionally, brush up on your understanding of data warehousing concepts and analytical tools, as these will likely come up during the technical rounds.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills

As a Business Intelligence Analyst, your ability to analyze data and derive insights is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you utilized your analytical skills to solve problems or improve processes. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, highlighting your contributions and the impact of your work.

Emphasize Collaboration and Communication

CDK Global values teamwork and collaboration, especially in a remote work environment. Be ready to discuss how you have worked with cross-functional teams in the past, particularly in gathering requirements and delivering solutions. Highlight your communication skills, as you will need to articulate complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Be Ready for Behavioral Questions

Expect a balanced approach to behavioral questions, which may account for about 20% of the interview. Prepare to discuss your experiences in a way that reflects your problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and how you handle challenges. Questions may revolve around your past experiences, such as how you dealt with difficult stakeholders or managed competing priorities.

Prepare for Cultural Fit

CDK Global emphasizes a positive attitude and a desire for transformation. Research the company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with those of the organization. Demonstrating that you are a good cultural fit can be just as important as showcasing your technical skills.

Practice Mock Interviews

Given the competitive nature of the role, consider conducting mock interviews with peers or mentors. This will help you refine your responses, improve your confidence, and receive constructive feedback. Focus on both technical and behavioral questions to ensure a well-rounded preparation.

Stay Positive and Professional

Throughout the interview process, maintain a positive demeanor, even if you encounter challenging questions or situations. CDK Global values professionalism and a collaborative spirit, so showcasing your ability to remain composed and engaged will leave a lasting impression.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you will position yourself as a strong candidate for the Business Intelligence role at CDK Global. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Business Intelligence interview at CDK Global. The interview process will likely focus on a combination of technical skills, particularly in SQL and data analysis, as well as behavioral questions to assess your fit within the company culture. Be prepared to discuss your experience with data integration, reporting tools, and your ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Technical Skills

1. What SQL techniques do you find most effective for optimizing query performance?

Understanding SQL performance tuning is crucial for this role, as you'll be working with large datasets.

How to Answer

Discuss specific techniques such as indexing, query rewriting, and using EXPLAIN plans to analyze query performance.

Example

"I often use indexing to speed up query performance, especially on large tables. Additionally, I rewrite complex queries to minimize the number of joins and subqueries, which can significantly reduce execution time. Using EXPLAIN plans helps me identify bottlenecks and optimize my queries accordingly."

2. Can you explain the difference between a normalized and a denormalized database?

This question tests your understanding of database design principles.

How to Answer

Define both terms and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

Example

"A normalized database reduces data redundancy and improves data integrity by organizing data into related tables. However, this can lead to complex queries. In contrast, a denormalized database combines tables to improve read performance, which is beneficial for reporting but can lead to data anomalies."

3. Describe a project where you had to migrate data from a legacy system to a modern platform. What challenges did you face?

This question assesses your experience with data migration, a key responsibility in the role.

How to Answer

Outline the project scope, the tools used, and the specific challenges encountered during the migration process.

Example

"In a recent project, I migrated data from an Oracle database to Snowflake. One challenge was ensuring data integrity during the transfer, which I addressed by implementing validation checks at each stage. Additionally, I had to train the team on the new platform, which required clear documentation and hands-on sessions."

4. What is your experience with BI tools like Power BI? Can you provide an example of a report you created?

This question evaluates your familiarity with business intelligence tools.

How to Answer

Discuss your experience with Power BI, including specific features you utilized and the impact of your reports.

Example

"I have extensive experience with Power BI, where I created a sales performance dashboard that visualized key metrics such as revenue, customer acquisition, and sales trends. This report helped the sales team identify underperforming areas and adjust their strategies accordingly."

Behavioral Questions

1. How do you handle conflicting priorities when working on multiple projects?

This question assesses your time management and prioritization skills.

How to Answer

Explain your approach to prioritizing tasks and managing deadlines effectively.

Example

"When faced with conflicting priorities, I first assess the urgency and impact of each project. I communicate with stakeholders to set realistic deadlines and ensure alignment on priorities. If necessary, I delegate tasks to team members to maintain progress across all projects."

2. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult stakeholder. How did you manage the relationship?

This question evaluates your interpersonal skills and ability to navigate challenging situations.

How to Answer

Share a specific example, focusing on your communication strategies and the outcome.

Example

"I once worked with a stakeholder who was resistant to change during a data migration project. I scheduled regular check-ins to address their concerns and provided updates on our progress. By involving them in the decision-making process, I was able to build trust and ultimately gain their support for the project."

3. Why do you want to work at CDK Global?

This question gauges your interest in the company and its culture.

How to Answer

Discuss what attracts you to CDK Global, such as its commitment to innovation, diversity, or specific projects.

Example

"I am drawn to CDK Global because of its focus on transforming data analytics in the automotive industry. I admire the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and I believe my skills in data analysis and reporting can contribute to the innovative solutions CDK Global is known for."

4. How do you ensure the quality of your work when dealing with large datasets?

This question assesses your attention to detail and quality assurance practices.

How to Answer

Explain your methods for validating data and ensuring accuracy in your analyses.

Example

"I implement a multi-step validation process when working with large datasets. This includes cross-referencing data against source systems, using automated scripts to check for anomalies, and conducting peer reviews of my analyses to ensure accuracy and reliability."