"Quote a specific project and what problems you faced and how did you solve them"?


Saradhi finds this question intrusive; however this is a particularly behaviourally oriented question common at interviews. The rationale behind behavioural questions is that past performance is a good indicator of future performance. If you're being interviewed for a role that involves project work, expect this question, and there is no excuse for not having an answer prepared!

What to include: be prepared to describe the project, the problems encountered eg budget, timelines, changing parameters etc. Explain your involvement and what you did to overcome barriers to success eg put in extra effort, found a better more efficient way of doing things etc.

If you lack project work experience you might want to draw on project work you experienced at school, university or in other courses you've done. If you've been out of the workforce for a while or are changing careers you could perhaps draw on experience you've had while renovating a house, being involved in sports/social club etc.

Remember interviewers will be looking out for how organised you are, how you cope under pressure and to deadlines as well as your problem solving ability. Always be positive and let the interviewer know you're proud of your project management achievements. This way you'll come across as confident and enthusiastic!

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