Corning Incorporated Business Intelligence Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Corning Incorporated is a global leader in materials science, leveraging extensive expertise in glass, ceramics, and optical physics to enhance everyday life.

The Business Intelligence role at Corning is pivotal in supporting the Life Sciences Data Analytics team. This position entails key responsibilities such as operational metrics reporting, objective setting, and modeling of operational scenarios to drive data-informed decisions. Candidates for this role should possess robust analytical skills, particularly in SQL, as it is crucial for managing and interpreting complex datasets. Familiarity with algorithms and a strong understanding of analytics will further bolster a candidate’s fit for this position. Those who thrive in this role are often detail-oriented, possess excellent problem-solving abilities, and demonstrate effective communication skills, as collaboration with various teams is essential. A genuine interest in the intersection of technology and manufacturing is also highly valued at Corning, aligning with the company's commitment to innovation and excellence.

This guide will help you prepare effectively for your interview by providing insights into the expectations and skills prioritized by Corning in the Business Intelligence role.

The interview process for a Business Intelligence role at Corning Incorporated is structured and thorough, designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the organization.

1. Initial Screening

The first step typically involves a phone screening with a recruiter, lasting around 30 minutes. During this call, the recruiter will discuss your background, experiences, and motivations for applying to Corning. Expect questions that gauge your understanding of the role and the company, as well as your soft skills and career objectives.

2. Technical Interview

Following the initial screening, candidates usually participate in a technical interview, which may be conducted virtually or in person. This interview focuses on your technical expertise relevant to business intelligence, including data analytics, operational metrics, and modeling scenarios. You may be asked to present a project you have worked on, showcasing your analytical skills and familiarity with relevant technologies.

3. Managerial Interview

The next step often involves an interview with the hiring manager and possibly their manager. This session is more conversational and aims to delve deeper into your fit for the team and the specific challenges of the role. Expect discussions about your past experiences, how they relate to the current goals of the department, and your approach to problem-solving in a business intelligence context.

4. Panel Interview

In some cases, candidates may face a panel interview, which includes multiple team members and possibly HR representatives. This stage assesses both technical and behavioral competencies, with questions designed to evaluate your teamwork, conflict resolution skills, and adaptability. You may also be asked to elaborate on your understanding of the business intelligence landscape and how you can contribute to Corning's objectives.

5. Final Steps

The final stage may include a presentation of your previous work or a case study relevant to the role. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your analytical thinking and communication skills. After this, you can expect feedback from the interviewers, which may take a few days to a week.

As you prepare for your interview, consider the types of questions that may arise during this process.

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

Understand the Role and Its Impact

Before your interview, take the time to deeply understand how the Business Intelligence role fits within Corning's broader objectives, particularly in the Life Sciences Data Analytics team. Familiarize yourself with the specific metrics and operational scenarios that the team focuses on. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to the company's success.

Prepare for a Multi-Step Interview Process

Expect a thorough interview process that may include multiple rounds, such as a phone screen with a recruiter, followed by interviews with hiring managers and possibly HR. Each stage may focus on different aspects, from your technical skills to your soft skills and cultural fit. Be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail, as interviewers will likely ask about specific projects and how they relate to the role.

Showcase Your Technical Proficiency

Given the emphasis on operational metrics and data analytics, be prepared to discuss your experience with SQL and any relevant analytical tools. You may be asked to present a project you've worked on, so choose one that highlights your technical skills and your ability to derive insights from data. Practice articulating your thought process and the impact of your work on business outcomes.

Emphasize Soft Skills and Team Collaboration

Corning values teamwork and collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively with others in past roles. Expect behavioral questions that assess your interpersonal skills, such as conflict resolution and communication. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to work in a team-oriented environment and how you can contribute positively to the company culture.

Dress Professionally and Be Personable

While the interview environment may be friendly and relaxed, it's important to present yourself professionally. Dress appropriately to convey respect for the interviewers and the process. Additionally, be personable and engage with your interviewers; they appreciate candidates who can connect on a human level while discussing technical topics.

Prepare for Presentation and Technical Questions

You may be asked to give a presentation on a project or your research. Ensure that your presentation is clear, concise, and relevant to the role. Anticipate technical questions that may delve into your understanding of data analytics, operational metrics, and any specific technologies mentioned in the job description. Practice explaining complex concepts in a way that is accessible to a diverse audience.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of your interviews, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the team, the projects they are currently working on, and how success is measured in the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company and position align with your career goals.

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

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Business Intelligence interview at Corning Incorporated. The interview process will likely focus on your technical skills, experience with data analytics, and your ability to communicate effectively within a team. Be prepared to discuss your past projects, your understanding of data analytics tools, and how you can contribute to the company's goals.

Technical Skills

1. What data analytics tools and technologies are you most familiar with, and how have you used them in your previous roles?

This question assesses your technical proficiency and experience with relevant tools.

How to Answer

Discuss specific tools you have used, such as SQL, Python, or any BI tools, and provide examples of how you applied them in your work.

Example

“I have extensive experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation, which I used in my previous role to generate reports for operational metrics. Additionally, I have utilized Tableau for data visualization, allowing stakeholders to easily interpret complex datasets.”

2. Can you explain a complex data analysis project you worked on and the impact it had on your organization?

This question evaluates your analytical skills and ability to drive results.

How to Answer

Describe the project, your role, the methodologies used, and the outcomes achieved.

Example

“I led a project analyzing customer feedback data to identify trends in product satisfaction. By employing regression analysis, we pinpointed key areas for improvement, which resulted in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction scores over the next quarter.”

3. How do you ensure data quality and accuracy in your reports?

This question tests your attention to detail and understanding of data integrity.

How to Answer

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

Example

“I implement a multi-step validation process, including cross-referencing data sources and conducting regular audits. Additionally, I encourage team members to review reports before final submission to catch any discrepancies.”

4. Describe your experience with SQL. Can you provide an example of a complex query you wrote?

This question focuses on your SQL skills, which are crucial for the role.

How to Answer

Share your experience with SQL and describe a specific query that demonstrates your ability to handle complex data retrieval tasks.

Example

“I frequently use SQL to extract data for reporting. For instance, I wrote a complex query that involved multiple joins and subqueries to analyze sales data across different regions, which helped identify underperforming areas.”

5. What is your approach to presenting data findings to non-technical stakeholders?

This question assesses your communication skills and ability to convey complex information simply.

How to Answer

Explain how you tailor your presentations to suit your audience's level of understanding.

Example

“I focus on simplifying the data by using visual aids like charts and graphs. I also avoid technical jargon and instead relate the findings to business objectives, ensuring that stakeholders can grasp the implications of the data.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Tell us about a time you faced a significant challenge in a project. How did you overcome it?

This question evaluates your problem-solving skills and resilience.

How to Answer

Describe the challenge, your thought process, and the steps you took to resolve it.

Example

“In a previous project, we encountered unexpected data discrepancies that threatened our timeline. I organized a team meeting to brainstorm solutions, and we implemented a new data validation process that not only resolved the issue but also improved our workflow moving forward.”

2. How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?

This question assesses your organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively.

How to Answer

Discuss your prioritization strategy and any tools you use to stay organized.

Example

“I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and project impact. I use project management software to track progress and ensure that I allocate time effectively, allowing me to meet all project requirements without compromising quality.”

3. Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult team member. How did you handle it?

This question evaluates your interpersonal skills and ability to navigate workplace dynamics.

How to Answer

Share a specific example and focus on your approach to resolving the conflict.

Example

“I once worked with a team member who was resistant to feedback. I scheduled a one-on-one meeting to discuss our differences openly, which helped us find common ground and improve our collaboration on the project.”

4. What motivates you to work in the field of business intelligence?

This question seeks to understand your passion and commitment to the role.

How to Answer

Express your enthusiasm for data analytics and how it aligns with your career goals.

Example

“I am motivated by the power of data to drive decision-making and improve business outcomes. I find it rewarding to uncover insights that can lead to strategic changes and ultimately enhance organizational performance.”

5. How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in data analytics?

This question assesses your commitment to professional development.

How to Answer

Discuss the resources you use to keep your skills current and your interest in ongoing learning.

Example

“I regularly attend webinars and workshops, and I follow industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Additionally, I am a member of several professional organizations that provide access to the latest research and trends in data analytics.”