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Interview Questions

Interview Question: What is your management style? – Answer Tips

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Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. How do you motivate your team members to achieve their goals?
  2. Can you describe your approach to delegating tasks and responsibilities?
  3. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within your team?
  4. What strategies do you use to ensure clear and effective communication with your team?
  5. Can you give an example of a time you had to adapt your leadership style to meet the needs of a particular team member or situation?
  6. How do you foster a positive and inclusive work environment?
  7. What role does feedback play in your management approach, and how do you deliver it?
  8. How do you balance being approachable and supportive while also holding your team accountable for their performance?
  9. How do you prioritize tasks and projects for your team, and how do you ensure they stay on track?
  10. Can you describe a time when you had to lead a team through a significant change or challenge? How did you handle it?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

So, let’s take a closer look at the interview question, “What is your management style?” and see how it connects back to one or more of the three things interviewers are trying to ascertain.

When an interviewer asks about your management style, they are primarily focusing on whether you will fit in with the company culture and existing team dynamics. A good fit will help ensure that you can work effectively with your colleagues and contribute positively to the team’s overall success.

Your management style may also touch on your ability to do the job. For example, if you demonstrate a keen understanding of how to delegate tasks, motivate team members, and communicate effectively, this shows that you have the skills and experience necessary to manage and lead a team successfully.

Lastly, the question can also provide insights into whether you will do the job with enthusiasm and commitment. Your response can reveal your level of motivation and dedication to achieving team goals, as well as your willingness to adapt and grow as a leader.

How Best To Answer ‘What is your management style?’

To effectively structure an answer to the question “What is your management style?”, consider following these steps:

  1. Briefly describe your management style: Start by providing a concise description of your management style. Use key terms that capture your approach, such as collaborative, results-oriented, or supportive.
  2. Highlight key principles or values: Emphasize the core principles or values that drive your management approach, such as clear communication, empowering team members, or continuous improvement.
  3. Provide a specific example: Offer a concrete example that demonstrates your management style in action. Describe a situation where you successfully applied your management approach to lead a team, resolve a conflict, or achieve a goal.
  4. Relate your style to the company’s culture: Connect your management style to the company’s culture or values. This shows that you’ve done your research and that you’re likely to be a good fit for the organization.
  5. Show adaptability: Lastly, acknowledge that your management style can evolve and adapt to different situations or team members’ needs. This demonstrates your flexibility and willingness to learn as a leader.

Remember to keep your response concise and focused, emphasizing the aspects of your management style that best align with the company’s values and the specific job requirements.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

What is your management style? – Example answer

Well, I’d say my management style is pretty collaborative and supportive. I really believe in making sure that everyone on the team has a voice and feels empowered to share their ideas. You know, it’s important to me that everyone’s involved and engaged in the decision-making process.

One thing I always try to do is to keep communication as clear and open as possible. I think it’s super important to make sure everyone knows what’s expected of them, and also to be there to provide guidance and support when they need it.

Actually, there was this one time when my team was working on a project with a tight deadline. We were all a bit stressed out, and I could see that some of the team members were struggling to prioritize their tasks. So, I called a quick team meeting, and we all sat down and talked it through. We ended up reassigning some tasks and setting mini-deadlines to help everyone stay on track. It really helped, and we ended up delivering the project on time and within budget.

I’ve done some research about your company, and I feel like my collaborative approach would fit in really well with the culture you’ve got going on here. Of course, I’m always open to adapting my style to meet the needs of the team and the situation. At the end of the day, it’s all about making sure we work together effectively and achieve our goals.

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)

Interview Question: Why should we hire you? – Answer Tips

by

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
  2. How do your skills and experience align with the requirements of this job?
  3. What unique qualities do you bring to our team?
  4. How do you believe you can make a positive impact at our company?
  5. What sets you apart from other applicants for this role?
  6. Can you provide specific examples of how your background prepares you for this position?
  7. What do you think is the most important skill or attribute required for this job, and how do you embody it?
  8. How do your career goals align with the mission and values of our company?
  9. How do you plan to contribute to the success of our team in the short term and long term?
  10. If you were to be hired, what would be your first priority or accomplishment in this role?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

Taking the classic interview question and subject of this post “Why should we hire you?” as an example, let’s see how it relates to the three identifiers mentioned in the article:

  1. Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?) When answering “Why should we hire you?”, you should highlight your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. Demonstrate how your expertise will enable you to successfully perform the job responsibilities, and share any past achievements that showcase your ability to excel in similar roles. This will help the interviewer understand that you have the necessary skills and experience to do the job.
  2. Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?) In your response, emphasize your passion for the work and your dedication to achieving results. Talk about your work ethic, your ability to adapt and learn quickly, and your commitment to the company’s success. By showcasing your enthusiasm and determination, you can convince the interviewer that you are motivated to perform well in the role.
  3. Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?) Your answer to “Why should we hire you?” should also include aspects of your personality and interpersonal skills that make you a good fit for the company’s culture. Share examples of how you have collaborated with others, resolved conflicts, or contributed to a positive work environment in the past. Mention any company values that resonate with you and explain why they are important to you. Demonstrating that you are likeable and compatible with the team will help the interviewer see you as a valuable addition to the organization.

So as you can see a great answer to this question will be able to hit all 3 of the things that the interviewer is looking for.

How Best To Answer ‘Why should we hire you?’

When structuring an answer to the “Why should we hire you?” question, consider using the following framework:

Introduction: Start with a concise and confident statement that summarizes why you are a strong candidate for the position.

Skills and Experience: Elaborate on your most relevant skills and experience that directly align with the job requirements. Use specific examples to illustrate your proficiency and how you have applied these skills in previous roles.

Drive and Motivation: Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and discuss what motivates you to excel in your work. Mention any goals or aspirations that align with the company’s mission or values.

Cultural Fit and Personality: Explain why you would be a good fit for the company culture, emphasizing your interpersonal skills, work style, and any personal traits that make you compatible with the team.

Conclusion: Conclude by reiterating your key points, and express your genuine interest in contributing to the company’s success.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Why should we hire you? – Example answer

Project Manager Example

I’m confident that I’m the perfect fit for this Project Manager role, given my 20 years of experience managing diverse projects and my deep passion for delivering outstanding results. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills in project planning, execution, and risk management, which will allow me to hit the ground running in this position.

You know, in my previous role at XYZ Corporation, I led a team of 15 professionals to successfully complete a complex, multimillion-dollar project within budget and ahead of schedule. It was a fantastic experience, and I’m eager to bring that same level of dedication and expertise to your organization.

What really drives me is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the projects I manage, and I’m excited about the innovative work your company is doing. I’m confident that my proactive attitude, ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and strong problem-solving skills will ensure that I can contribute significantly to your team’s success.

When it comes to company culture, I pride myself on being a team player and an effective communicator. I’ve always believed that fostering a collaborative and supportive environment is key to achieving project goals. My colleagues have often praised my ability to remain calm under pressure and to inspire and motivate those around me.

In conclusion, I’m convinced that my extensive experience, technical skills, passion for the industry, and team-oriented mindset make me an ideal candidate for this Project Manager role. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your organization.

Customer Service Example

I’m really excited about this customer service position because I love helping people and making sure they have a great experience. With my background in retail and my genuine passion for customer satisfaction, I’m sure I’d be a great fit for this role.

You see, I’ve worked in retail for over five years, and I’ve always enjoyed interacting with customers and finding solutions to their needs. In my last job at ABC Store, I was known for going the extra mile to make customers feel welcome and valued. One time, I even helped a customer track down a hard-to-find item by calling multiple stores, and they were so grateful for the effort I put in.

What keeps me motivated is knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s day, whether it’s by helping them find the perfect gift or just lending a listening ear. I’m excited to bring my positive attitude and willingness to learn to your team, and I think my strong communication skills will help me build great relationships with both customers and coworkers.

As for fitting in, I’ve always been a team player and I get along well with others. I think it’s super important to create a fun and supportive work environment where everyone feels comfortable and motivated to do their best. Plus, I’m really adaptable and can easily handle changes or unexpected situations with a smile.

All in all, I’m confident that my experience, people skills, and passion for customer service make me an ideal candidate for this position. I can’t wait to join your team and help create amazing experiences for your customers!

Web Developer Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: How do you seek to promote diversity when working in a project team? – Answer Tips
Interview Question: Why did you leave your last job? – Answer Examples
Interview Question: Tell Me About A Time You Helped A Co-Worker Learn A New Skill – Answer Tips

Interview Question: Tell me about a time you made a mistake – Answer Examples

by

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Can you describe a situation where things didn’t go as planned, and how you dealt with it?
  2. Tell me about a time when you failed to meet a deadline. What happened, and how did you handle it?
  3. How do you handle setbacks in your work? Can you provide an example?
  4. Describe a situation where you received negative feedback from a supervisor or coworker. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from it?
  5. Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a significant change at work. How did you cope with it?
  6. Have you ever faced a difficult decision at work? Can you describe the situation and how you resolved it?
  7. Describe a time when you disagreed with a team member or a manager. How did you handle the disagreement?
  8. Can you provide an example of when you had to make a tough decision with limited information? How did you approach it?
  9. Tell me about a time when you took a risk at work, and it didn’t turn out as expected. What happened, and what did you learn from the experience?
  10. Describe a project or task where you faced unexpected obstacles. How did you overcome them?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

The interview question “Tell me about a time you made a mistake” serves as an excellent example of a question that addresses one or more of the three points mentioned above.

1 – Can you do the job? When you discuss a mistake you made, you have the opportunity to showcase how you’ve learned from that experience and how it has ultimately improved your skills or expertise. Your ability to recognize and admit to a mistake demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to grow, which are essential qualities for any professional.

2 – Will you do the job? The way you handle mistakes is an indication of your drive and motivation to get the job done. By sharing how you took responsibility for your mistake and the steps you took to correct it, you show the interviewer that you are committed to achieving results and overcoming challenges. This response also highlights your problem-solving skills and determination to succeed in your role.

3 – Will you fit in? Your approach to addressing mistakes can reveal a lot about your personality and how you might fit into the workplace culture. Are you open and honest about your errors? Do you communicate effectively with your team to resolve issues? Can you maintain a positive attitude despite setbacks? These traits are critical in fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. By providing a thoughtful answer to this question, you can demonstrate that you are a team player who is adaptable and able to learn from past experiences.

How Best To Answer ‘Tell me about a time you made a mistake’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Let’s apply the B-STAR technique to the interview question, “Tell me about a time you made a mistake” and relate each stage back to the question.

B – Belief: Share your thoughts and feelings about making mistakes and learning from them. For example, you might believe that making mistakes is a natural part of personal and professional growth, and it’s crucial to acknowledge, learn, and improve from these experiences.

S – Situation: Briefly describe the context in which you made a mistake. This could be a project you were working on, a decision you made, or an interaction with a coworker. Remember to keep the situation easy to understand and focus on setting the stage for your role in the scenario. For example: “I was leading a team responsible for implementing a new software system for our company.”

T – Task: Explain your role and responsibilities within the situation. Emphasize your active involvement in addressing the mistake and the steps you took to rectify it. For example: “My task was to coordinate the team’s efforts, manage the timeline, and ensure a smooth transition to the new system.”

A – Activity (or action): Detail the actions you took after realizing the mistake, explaining your reasoning for each step. This part should be the most extensive portion of your answer, as it demonstrates your problem-solving skills and ability to learn from mistakes. For example: “When I realized I had overlooked a critical feature, I immediately informed my team and stakeholders. I took responsibility for the oversight, and we quickly assessed the situation and developed a plan to incorporate the missing feature. I also conducted a thorough review of our processes to prevent similar mistakes in the future.”

R – Result: Explain the outcome of your actions, using quantifiable results if possible. This helps the interviewer understand the impact of your actions and the lessons you learned from the experience. For example: “Despite the initial setback, we successfully incorporated the missing feature and launched the new software system on time. As a result, our team’s efficiency improved by 20%, and we received positive feedback from stakeholders for our quick resolution of the issue.”

By using the B-STAR technique, you can provide a well-structured and comprehensive answer to the interview question, showcasing your skills, experience, and ability to learn from mistakes while demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and adaptability.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell me about a time you made a mistake – Example answer

Business Analyst Example

“I strongly believe in the importance of accuracy and transparency in my work as a business analyst, and I’ve learned that acknowledging and learning from mistakes is crucial for professional growth. There was an instance where I made a mistake while working on a project to streamline a client’s supply chain processes. My role in this project was to analyze data and provide recommendations to the client based on key metrics.

When I discovered that I had made a miscalculation in one of those metrics, I immediately informed my supervisor, taking full responsibility for the error. I collaborated with my team to identify the root cause and develop a plan to correct it. We then presented the updated analysis and recommendations to the client, along with a thorough explanation of the mistake and the steps we took to rectify it. This approach demonstrated my commitment to honesty and transparency.

Despite the initial setback, the project was ultimately successful, and the client was very satisfied with the results. They appreciated our transparency and the corrective measures we took. This experience reinforced the importance of double-checking my work and being open about mistakes. It also showcased my ability to take responsibility and collaborate with my team to find solutions to problems.”

No Experience Answer

As someone with no work experience, I have not yet had the opportunity to make a mistake in a professional setting. However, I am a quick learner and am always willing to take on new challenges. I believe that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process and that they provide valuable opportunities for growth and development.

In my academic and personal life, I have faced various challenges and have learned from my mistakes. For example, in a group project in university, I misunderstood the scope of my role and did not complete my assigned tasks on time. This mistake taught me the importance of clear communication and planning in a team setting.

Moving forward, I am eager to bring my positive attitude and willingness to learn to a professional setting. I believe that with the right guidance and support, I have the potential to grow and succeed in any role.

Project Manager Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: Tell me about a time you showed leadership – Answer Examples
Interview Question: What books have you read lately? – Answer Tips
10 Questions To Ask At The End Of An Interview (And 6 That You Shouldn’t!)

Interview Question: Tell me about a time you showed leadership – Answer Examples

by

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Can you give an example of a time when you took charge and led a group to achieve a specific goal?
  2. Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision and lead others through the process.
  3. Have you ever been in a position where you had to motivate and inspire others to achieve a common objective? If so, please explain.
  4. Share a story about a time when you had to take on a leadership role unexpectedly.
  5. Give an example of a situation where you had to collaborate with others and use your leadership skills to reach a successful outcome.
  6. Describe a time when you had to manage a conflict within a team and how you used your leadership skills to resolve it.
  7. Can you share a story about a time when you had to communicate a vision to a team and motivate them to work towards it?
  8. Give an example of a situation where you had to mentor or coach someone and help them develop their skills.
  9. Tell me about a time when you had to handle a crisis and how you used your leadership skills to manage the situation.
  10. Have you ever implemented a change in a team or organization? How did you use your leadership skills to successfully implement the change?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

One of the most common interview questions, “Tell me about a time you showed leadership,” relates to all three points that the interviewer is trying to ascertain.

Firstly, this question helps the interviewer determine whether you have the skills and experience needed to do the job. Leadership skills are often a key requirement for many roles, and a good answer to this question will showcase your ability to lead, manage, and motivate others towards achieving a common goal.

Secondly, this question helps the interviewer assess your drive and motivation to get the job done. Good leaders are often driven and motivated individuals who are passionate about their work and committed to achieving their goals. By describing a specific instance where you demonstrated leadership, you can show the interviewer that you have the drive and motivation to take on challenges and succeed in your role.

Finally, this question also helps the interviewer determine whether you will fit in with the workplace culture. Leadership can take many different forms, and the way you describe your leadership style can give the interviewer insight into your personality and work style. For example, if you describe a collaborative leadership style where you work closely with others to achieve goals, this could demonstrate that you are a team player who is adaptable and easy to work with.

How Best To Answer ‘Tell me about a time you showed leadership’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Answers using this method follow the below structure:

Using the B-STAR technique, you can structure your answer to showcase your leadership skills and experience:

B – Belief – Start by sharing your belief in the importance of strong leadership in the workplace, and why you feel it’s crucial to be an effective leader.

S – Situation – Briefly describe the situation that called for your leadership skills. This could be a project or a team that you led, or a situation where you stepped up to take on a leadership role.

T – Task – Describe your role in the situation. What were the specific tasks you were responsible for? What were the goals or objectives that you were trying to achieve?

A – Activity (or action) – Detail the specific steps you took as a leader to achieve your goals. This is the bulk of your answer, so be sure to provide detailed examples of your leadership skills, such as how you motivated and inspired your team, how you delegated tasks effectively, and how you managed any challenges or conflicts that arose.

R – Result – Finally, describe the outcomes and results of your leadership. What were the tangible results of your actions? This could include increased productivity, improved team morale, or achieving specific goals or targets.

By using the B-STAR technique, you can provide a detailed and structured answer to the question of “Tell me about a time you showed leadership,” showcasing your skills, experience, and results as a leader. Remember, the B-STAR technique is flexible, so feel free to adapt it to suit the specific question and situation. The key is to provide a clear and concise answer that demonstrates your leadership abilities to the interviewer.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell me about a time you showed leadership – Example answers

Project Manager Example

B – Belief: “I firmly believe that a strong leader can inspire and motivate their team to achieve great things, even in the face of difficult challenges.”

S – Situation: “In my previous role, I was leading a cross-functional team on a complex project with tight deadlines and high stakes. The project involved coordinating the efforts of multiple departments and required close collaboration and clear communication to ensure success.”

T – Task: “As the leader of the team, my task was to set a clear vision for the project and assign roles and responsibilities to team members. I established clear lines of communication to ensure everyone was on the same page and provided regular updates on progress.”

A – Activity: “I took a hands-on approach to leadership, providing mentorship and guidance to team members and fostering a positive and collaborative team environment. I encouraged open communication and a willingness to take calculated risks, and I took the initiative to address any issues that arose in a timely manner.”

R – Result: “Thanks to my leadership, the project was completed on time and within budget, and was well-received by both internal stakeholders and the client. The project was a great success, and I believe this was due in large part to the way I was able to lead and motivate the team.”

Overall, “this experience taught me the importance of setting a clear vision, establishing clear lines of communication, and taking a hands-on approach to leadership. I’m confident that my leadership skills will serve me well in future roles, and I’m excited to continue developing my abilities as a leader.”

Payroll Assistant Example

B – Belief: “I believe that a good leader is someone who takes initiative, inspires others, and provides support when needed.”

S – Situation: “In my previous role as a payroll assistant, our team was faced with a new payroll system rollout. The new system was complex and required extensive training for all team members.”

T – Task: “As a payroll assistant, my task was to ensure that all team members were trained on the new system and that we were able to effectively transition to it without any major hiccups.”

A – Activity: “I took the initiative to provide additional training and support to team members who were struggling with the new system. I organized additional training sessions during lunch breaks and after work hours to ensure everyone had the opportunity to learn the new system. I also created detailed process manuals and cheat sheets that could be used as a reference. Additionally, I held one-on-one meetings with team members to answer any questions they had and provide support and guidance where needed.”

R – Result: “Thanks to my leadership, the team was able to effectively transition to the new payroll system without any major hiccups. The team was able to meet their deadlines and deliver accurate payroll processing without any errors. I received positive feedback from my team members and managers for my leadership and support during the transition.”

Overall, “this experience taught me the importance of being adaptable and proactive in the face of change. It also demonstrated my ability to lead by example, take initiative, inspire others, and provide support when needed. I believe these are all important qualities for a leader, and I’m excited to continue developing my leadership skills in future roles.”

Teacher Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: tell me about a time you disagreed with your boss – Answer Examples
Interview Question: Tell me about a time you took a risk – Answer Examples
10 Questions To Ask At The End Of An Interview (And 6 That You Shouldn’t!)

Interview Question: tell me about a time you disagreed with your boss – Answer Examples

by

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Can you describe an instance where you had a differing opinion with your supervisor? How did you handle it?
  2. How have you managed a situation where you and your manager had conflicting viewpoints?
  3. Can you share an example of when you challenged your boss’s decision? What was the outcome?
  4. Describe a time when you had to disagree with your superior professionally. How did you navigate the situation?
  5. Have you ever had to stand up for your beliefs or ideas against your boss’s perspective? What happened?
  6. What is your approach when you feel that your manager’s decision is not the best one? Can you give an example?
  7. Can you recall a time when you needed to communicate a dissenting opinion to your supervisor? How did you ensure a positive outcome?
  8. How do you handle situations where you believe your boss is making a mistake? Share an experience you’ve had.
  9. Have you ever disagreed with a directive from your manager? How did you express your concerns and resolve the issue?
  10. Describe a situation where you had to push back against your boss’s idea or plan. What was your approach, and what was the result?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

So when looking at the interview question “Tell me about a time you disagreed with your boss”, we can relate it back to these points:

  1. Can you do the job? – This question aims to assess your problem-solving and communication skills, which are essential in any professional setting. By asking about a time when you disagreed with your boss, the interviewer wants to understand how you approach challenging situations, negotiate, and find solutions while maintaining a professional relationship.
  2. Will you do the job? – This question can also give insight into your drive and motivation. It allows the interviewer to gauge how you handle disagreements and whether you are willing to voice your opinions and stand up for your ideas, even when it means challenging authority. (People with low motivation or drive in their role will not bother voicing their disagreement)
  3. Will you fit in? – Your response to this question can reveal information about your personality and how you might fit into the workplace culture. The way you handle disagreements with a superior can demonstrate your ability to collaborate, show respect, and find common ground. Additionally, it shows how adaptable and flexible you are in situations where your ideas or opinions may not align with those of others, which is crucial for a healthy and productive work environment.

How Best To Answer ‘tell me about a time you disagreed with your boss’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Answers using this method follow the below structure:

B – Belief: Begin by stating your thoughts and feelings about the importance of open communication, expressing concerns, or providing alternative perspectives in a professional setting, even when it involves disagreeing with a supervisor.

S – Situation: Describe a specific scenario where you disagreed with your boss. Keep the description brief, easy to understand, and focus on the context rather than too many details. The aim is to set the stage for your actions and role in the situation.

T – Task: Explain your role in the situation, emphasizing your responsibilities and the goals you wanted to achieve. This could be related to the team’s success, the company’s interests, or maintaining a good working relationship with your supervisor.

A – Activity (or action): Describe the steps you took to address the disagreement. This may include gathering information, seeking alternative solutions, or communicating your concerns to your boss. Explain the reasons behind each action and how it contributed to resolving the disagreement.

R – Result: Conclude by sharing the outcome of the situation, focusing on the positive effects of your actions. Use specific figures or statistics if possible, like improved productivity, reduced costs, or increased team morale. Emphasize the lessons learned and how the experience contributed to your professional growth.

Keep in mind that the B-STAR technique is a guideline, not a strict rule. Feel free to adapt the structure to best showcase your experience and effectively communicate your point in response to the question.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell Me About A Time You Disagreed With Your Boss – Example answer

Project Coordinator Example

I strongly believe that open communication and sharing differing opinions with supervisors are crucial for making informed decisions and fostering a collaborative work environment. In my previous role as a project coordinator, our team was tasked with developing a marketing campaign. My boss suggested an approach that I felt wouldn’t resonate with our target audience and could negatively impact our results.

As the person responsible for overseeing the project, I had to ensure its success. My objective was to address my concerns with my boss and propose a more effective strategy without undermining their authority. I took the initiative to research alternative marketing approaches and gathered data to support my perspective. After preparing a concise presentation, I requested a one-on-one meeting with my boss and shared my findings. I emphasized that my goal was to improve the campaign’s effectiveness and achieve the best possible outcome for our team.

After discussing my concerns and the proposed alternative, my boss appreciated my proactive approach and agreed to implement the new strategy. The marketing campaign ultimately exceeded our initial targets, leading to a 30% increase in leads and a 20% boost in sales. This experience not only reinforced the importance of open communication but also allowed me to develop a stronger working relationship with my supervisor.

Generic Disagreement Answer

I believe that staying true to a company’s values and mission is crucial for long-term success, even if it means disagreeing with the owner. In my previous role, the owner proposed a new direction for the business that I felt would prioritize short-term gains over our company’s values and long-term impact.

In this situation, my task was to express my concerns and recommend an alternative strategy that would better align with our company’s values and mission. I took the initiative to gather data and evidence to support my perspective before approaching the owner. We engaged in an open and respectful dialogue, ultimately finding a resolution that blended elements of both our suggestions and better reflected the company’s values and goals.

The outcome of this experience reinforced the importance of standing up for what I believe in and the value of effective, respectful communication, even in the face of disagreements. It also highlighted the benefits of finding solutions that balance short-term and long-term objectives while maintaining the integrity of the company’s mission and values.

Teacher Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: Tell me about a time you received negative feedback – Answer Examples
Interview Question: Tell Me About Yourself – Answer Tips
Should You Write A Cover Letter When Applying For Jobs?

Interview Question: Tell me about a time you took a risk – Answer Examples

by

Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision. What was the outcome?
  2. Can you share an example of when you went against the norm or challenged conventional thinking to solve a problem?
  3. Tell me about a time when you had to make a decision with limited information. How did you handle it?
  4. Describe a situation where you took a creative or unconventional approach to solving a problem. What was the result?
  5. Share an experience where you had to navigate uncertainty or ambiguity in a professional setting. How did you deal with it?
  6. Tell me about a time when you faced a significant obstacle at work. How did you overcome it?
  7. Describe a project where you had to weigh the pros and cons of different options. How did you make your decision?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

The question “tell me about a time you took a risk” is a versatile and insightful one, as it can relate to one or more of the three fundamental aspects interviewers seek to understand about a candidate. By asking this question, interviewers gain a deeper perspective on your skills, motivation, and adaptability to the workplace culture.

  1. Can you do the job? When discussing a risk you’ve taken, you have the opportunity to showcase your skills and experience in handling challenging situations. You can demonstrate your ability to assess risks, make informed decisions, and navigate uncertain circumstances. It also allows you to highlight any technical or soft skills you employed in the process, further convincing the interviewer that you possess the necessary expertise for the job.
  2. Will you do the job? This question also touches on your motivation and drive. By sharing a story about a risk you’ve taken, you reveal your willingness to push boundaries, take ownership, and strive for success. Employers want to hire candidates who are proactive and not afraid to step out of their comfort zones. Your response can showcase your determination, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to achieving goals even in the face of adversity.
  3. Will you fit in? Lastly, discussing a risk-taking experience can help the interviewer understand your personality and how it aligns with the company culture. It shows your adaptability, openness to change, and ability to collaborate with others during challenging times. Your response can also reveal how you handle stress, deal with failure, and learn from your experiences. These qualities are essential for a harmonious and productive work environment.

How Best To Answer ‘Tell me about a time you took a risk’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Answers using this method follow the below structure:

B – Belief – What are your thoughts and feelings with regard to the subject matter?

S – Situation – What was going on? Briefly explain the scenario that was taking place. – Try not to spend too much time describing the situation. The bulk of your answer needs to be about you and what you did so keep the situation simple to understand and even simpler to describe.

T – Task – What was your role in the action? Most of the time it is best that you are taking an active rather than passive role in the encounter.

A – Activity (or action) – What did you do? Detail the steps you took and why you took them. – This should take up the bulk of your time answering the question.

R – Result – How did everything end up? Try to use figures if possible (e.g. we cut costs by $3m, customer satisfaction scores increased 25%, failures reduced to zero, ice cream parties increased ten-fold etc.).

Remember though that the B-STAR technique is descriptive not prescriptive. You do not need to follow this flow strictly, go with what is best for your answers and that will allow you to put your point across and show your experience the best.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell me about a time you took a risk – Example answer

Project Manager Example

I don’t believe in taking unnecessary risks, however when the pros and cons have been properly identified I am happy to make a calculated risk should I believe it will be beneficial overall. A time I took a risk at work was when I suggested a new approach to a project that I was working on. The project was facing several challenges and I felt that the team was not making progress using the traditional methods. I proposed a new approach that was outside of the box and that required the team to think differently about the problem. Although my proposal was met with initial skepticism, I was able to clearly articulate the potential benefits and I was able to rally support from key stakeholders. We implemented my proposal and it was successful, leading to a significant improvement in the pace of the project and a better outcome for the team and the organization. This experience taught me the value of taking calculated risks and thinking creatively to find solutions to challenging problems. It also demonstrated the importance of being able to communicate effectively and to build support for innovative ideas.

Insurance Adjustor Example

A risk I took as an insurance adjustor was when I recommended a settlement offer to a client that was significantly lower than what they had initially requested. The client was expecting a large payout for their claim, but based on my investigation, I determined that the damages were not as extensive as they had reported. I knew that this would be a difficult conversation, as the client had high expectations for their payout, but I felt that it was the right thing to do to provide an accurate and fair assessment of the damages.

I presented my findings and recommended a lower settlement offer, explaining the reasoning behind my decision. The client was initially upset but after some discussion and review of the evidence, they ultimately agreed with my assessment and accepted the settlement offer. This was a risk because there was a possibility that the client would reject my recommendation and take legal action, which could have resulted in a negative outcome for both the client and the insurance company. However, by taking this risk, I was able to build trust with the client and maintain a high level of integrity and professionalism in my role as an insurance adjustor.

Team Leader Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)

Interview Question: Tell me about a time you went above and beyond – Answer Examples

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Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Can you describe a situation where you demonstrated exceptional effort to meet a client’s needs?
  2. Give me an example of a time when you took the initiative to go beyond your job responsibilities.
  3. Have you ever taken a risk to accomplish a task? Can you tell me about it?
  4. Could you tell me about a time when you had to work outside of your comfort zone to achieve a goal?
  5. Describe a situation where you had to overcome a significant obstacle to complete a project.
  6. Can you share an instance where you had to make a tough decision to accomplish a task?
  7. Give me an example of a time when you exceeded expectations to help a colleague or team member.
  8. Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new situation to complete a task successfully.
  9. Have you ever gone the extra mile to achieve a personal goal? Can you describe it?
  10. Could you provide an example of a time when you received positive feedback for going above and beyond?


What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

This question is looking to see if you are someone who will go ‘above and beyond’. It is seeing if you are someone who is not content with the status quo and will seek to make things better. This is speaking to your motivation (no. 2 above).

The interviewer is looking to see if you have in the past put in the extra effort in the workplace. This could be something like going the extra mile to land a new customer, or if you are technical it could be creating a tool or piece of software that helps your, and your colleagues, processes.

How Best To Answer ‘Tell me about a time you went above and beyond’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

For this question it will look something like this:

B – Belief – What are your thoughts and feelings with regard to the subject matter? – The interviewer is looking for people who go above and beyond, make sure you talk a little bit about how you are not content with doing an ‘ok’ job, say how you always look at ways you can produce exceptional work and are not afraid to put the work in to achieve quality.

S – Situation – What was going on? Briefly explain the scenario that was taking place. – Try not to spend too much time describing the situation. The bulk of your answer needs to be about you and what you did so keep the situation simple to understand and even simpler to describe.

T – Task – What was your role in the action? Most of the time it is best that you are taking an active rather than passive role in the encounter.

A – Activity (or action) – What did you do? Detail the steps you took and why you took them. – This should take up the bulk of your time answering the question.

R – Result – How did everything end up? Try to use figures if possible (e.g. we cut costs by $3m, customer satisfaction scores increased 25%, failures reduced to zero, ice cream parties increased ten-fold etc.).

Remember though that the B-STAR technique is descriptive not prescriptive. You do not need to follow this flow strictly, go with what is best for your answers and that will allow you to put your point across and show your experience the best.

What You Should Not Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell me about a time you went above and beyond – Example answer

Developer Example

I recall a project where my team and I were tasked with launching a new website for our company. As the lead developer, I went above and beyond by not only completing my own tasks but also helping my team members with theirs. I held extra training sessions and provided one-on-one support to ensure everyone was comfortable with the new technology we were using. The result was a successful launch that received positive feedback from both our colleagues and customers.

In my previous retail job, there was a busy holiday season where our store was short-staffed. Despite having my own tasks to attend to, I voluntarily assisted my colleagues by covering their breaks, restocking shelves, and helping customers with their purchases. This allowed my coworkers to take much-needed breaks and improved the overall shopping experience for customers. As a result, our store was able to meet its sales targets and received positive feedback from management.

In a previous construction job, I was part of a team responsible for building a multi-story building. During the project, we encountered unexpected soil conditions that required additional support for the foundation. Instead of waiting for instructions from the project manager, I took initiative and discussed potential solutions with the team. Together, we came up with a plan to reinforce the foundation, ensuring the stability and safety of the building. This extra effort resulted in a successful project completion and earned recognition from the client and project manager.

Customer Service Example

In my previous role as a customer service representative at a bank, I encountered a situation where a customer had an issue with a fraudulent transaction on their account. The customer was understandably upset and had been on hold for a long time, speaking to multiple representatives without finding a resolution.

My first action was to apologize to the customer for the inconvenience and frustration they had experienced. I then requested all the necessary information to investigate the transaction. After reviewing their account history and the transaction details, I determined that the transaction was indeed fraudulent.

Next, I informed the customer that we would need to cancel their existing card and issue them a new one. The customer was worried about the length of time it would take to receive the new card and access their funds. To address their concerns, I assured them that I would work with the team to expedite the process and make sure their new card was delivered to them as soon as possible.

In the end, the customer felt heard and valued. They expressed gratitude for the extra time and attention that I gave them. They also felt confident that their issue had been resolved and appreciated the proactive steps I took to ensure they could access their funds as soon as possible. My supervisor commended me for my efforts, and the customer left a positive feedback, which was a great feeling.

Teacher Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: What books have you read lately? – Answer Tips
Interview Question: Why do you want this job – Answer Tips
Interview Question: Tell Me About A Time Someone Challenged Your Decision – Answer Tips

Interview Question: What books have you read lately? – Answer Tips

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Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. What are some of your favorite books, and why do you enjoy them?
  2. Can you recommend any books that you think I should read?
  3. What kind of books do you enjoy reading, and why?
  4. What was the last book you read that you really enjoyed, and what made it stand out?
  5. How often do you read, and what kind of books do you like to read the most?
  6. Have you read any books recently that have influenced your thinking or worldview in a significant way?
  7. Are there any authors whose work you particularly admire or find inspiring?
  8. What are you currently reading, and how are you enjoying it so far?
  9. Have you ever read a book that completely changed your perspective on something?
  10. How do you decide what books to read, and what factors do you consider when choosing your next read?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

Interviewers may ask about the books you’ve read recently for several reasons, all of which relate back to one of the 3 points above:

  1. Assess your interests: This question can provide insight into your personal interests, passions, and how you spend your free time. Your reading choices can reveal whether you are engaged in continuous learning, staying current with industry trends, or exploring new ideas.
  2. Gauge your intellectual curiosity: Your recent reading material can indicate your level of intellectual curiosity and your willingness to learn and grow, both personally and professionally.
  3. Understand your communication and critical thinking skills: Discussing a book you’ve read allows interviewers to evaluate your ability to articulate thoughts, analyze content, and think critically about complex ideas.
  4. Find common ground: Sometimes, interviewers ask this question to build rapport and find common ground. If you both have read the same book or share similar reading interests, it can create a connection and make the conversation more engaging.
  5. Evaluate cultural fit: Your reading preferences can give the interviewer a sense of whether your values, interests, and approach align with the company’s culture.

When answering this question, be honest about the books you’ve read and share a brief summary or key takeaway from one or more of them. If possible, choose books that are relevant to the job, industry, or the company’s values to demonstrate your commitment to professional growth.

How Best To Answer ‘What books have you read lately?’

The B-STAR (Belief – Situation, Task, Action, Result) format is a useful framework for answering behavioral interview questions that require specific examples of past experiences. However, for the question “What books have you read lately?”, the STAR format may not be the most suitable approach.

This is because the question is not asking for a specific example of a past experience, but rather for your current reading habits and interests. Therefore, a more appropriate approach to answering this question would be to focus on providing a clear and concise response that showcases your reading habits and interests.

To answer the question “What books have you read lately?”, candidates should focus on providing a clear and concise response that showcases their reading habits and interests. Here are some tips for structuring an effective answer:

  1. Start with the genre: Begin by mentioning the genre or category of books you have been reading lately. This helps to provide context for your answer and can help the interviewer better understand your interests.
  2. Be specific: Try to mention the titles of specific books you have read recently and provide a brief summary of what you liked about them. This demonstrates that you have engaged with the material and can articulate your thoughts and opinions on it.
  3. Connect to the job: If possible, try to connect your reading habits and interests to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in marketing, you could mention books you have read about branding or advertising.
  4. Keep it concise: While it’s important to provide a detailed answer, you don’t want to go on for too long. Keep your answer concise and to the point.

By following these tips, you can provide a structured and thoughtful response that demonstrates your reading habits and interests, as well as your ability to communicate effectively.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not say you have do not read.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

What books have you read lately? – Example answer

Leadership Example

Recently, I’ve read a few books that have been influential in shaping my perspective on leadership and staying up-to-date with the software industry. One book that stands out is ‘The Five Dysfunctions of a Team’ by Patrick Lencioni. This book provides valuable insights into building effective teams by overcoming common obstacles like lack of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results. I’ve applied some of the strategies outlined in the book to improve team dynamics in my previous roles, and I’ve seen a positive impact on productivity and collaboration.

Another book that I found fascinating is ‘The Lean Startup’ by Eric Ries. It offers a fresh perspective on product development and management, focusing on rapid prototyping and validation of ideas through customer feedback. I believe this approach can be very beneficial for a software company like yours, as it can help deliver valuable products faster and with less risk.

In addition to these books, I enjoy reading technology blogs and industry news to stay current with the latest trends and developments in software. This continuous learning habit helps me stay ahead of the curve and make more informed decisions as a manager

Project Manager Example

In the past few months, I’ve been focused on reading books that can help me become a better project manager, particularly in the finance industry. One book that I found particularly helpful was ‘Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager’ by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood. This book provided practical tips and strategies for managing projects effectively, even when you don’t have formal authority or a dedicated team.

Another book that I recently read and enjoyed was ‘The Lean Startup’ by Eric Ries. Although it’s not specifically about project management, the book provides valuable insights into how to launch and grow a successful business by using a lean and iterative approach. I believe that many of the principles and strategies discussed in this book can be applied to project management in the finance industry.

Overall, I’m always looking for ways to improve my project management skills and knowledge, and I believe that reading books on the topic is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. I’m excited about the opportunity to apply these skills and knowledge in a Project Manager position at ExampleBank, and I’m confident that my reading habits and interests will be an asset to the team.

Teacher Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: Why do you want this job – Answer Tips
Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you have identified an opportunity for improvement within your processes? – Answer Tips
Interview Question: How do you handle disagreements within your team? – Answer Tips

Interview Question: Why do you want this job – Answer Tips

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Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. What interests you about this role?
  2. What motivates you to apply for this position?
  3. What do you hope to gain from working here?
  4. How does this job align with your career goals?
  5. What attracted you to this company?
  6. What do you think you can contribute to our team?
  7. What specific skills or experiences do you have that make you a good fit for this job?
  8. What challenges do you see in this role, and how do you plan to address them?
  9. How do you see this job fitting into your long-term career plans?
  10. What sets this job apart from other opportunities you have considered?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

The question “why do you want this job?” is commonly asked by interviewers as it helps them assess various aspects of a candidate simultaneously. When you explain why you want the job, you have the opportunity to emphasize your skills and experience that make you a suitable candidate. By discussing how your abilities align with the position’s requirements, you demonstrate that you have the capability to perform the tasks involved in the job. This helps the interviewer understand your potential for success in the role.

Your response to this question can also showcase your motivation and passion for the role. Expressing enthusiasm for the job, its challenges, and the company’s mission or values indicates that you are genuinely interested in the position and willing to put in the effort to achieve success. This demonstrates to the interviewer that you have the drive and motivation necessary to excel in the position.

Finally, the way you articulate your reasons for wanting the job can reveal aspects of your personality and how they align with the company culture. By highlighting your personal values, goals, and work style, you provide the interviewer with a glimpse into how you might fit in with the team and contribute to a positive work environment. A well-thought-out answer can also convey that you are a likable and approachable candidate, which is important for fostering good working relationships.

How Best To Answer ‘Why Do You Want This Job’

The best approach to answering the question “why do you want this job?” involves a combination of research, self-reflection, and effective communication. While the B-STAR method is particularly useful for behavioral interview questions that ask for specific examples from your past experiences, you can still apply some of its principles to craft a compelling answer to this question.

The best approach to answering the question “why do you want this job?” involves thorough preparation, self-reflection, and effective communication. To craft a compelling and authentic response, consider the following steps:

  1. Research the company and the role: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, culture, and the specific job requirements. This will allow you to tailor your answer to show that you are well-informed and genuinely interested in the role. Discuss how the company’s mission or values resonate with your own beliefs, or mention specific projects or initiatives that excite you.
  2. Reflect on your motivation and strengths: Engage in self-reflection to identify your strengths, motivations, and personal goals. Consider how these align with the job description and the company culture. This will help you demonstrate that you are not only capable of performing the job but also motivated to succeed and likely to fit in with the team.
  3. Structure your response: Begin by expressing your enthusiasm for the company and the role. Then, highlight your skills, experience, and personal traits that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Be specific and provide examples where possible to make your response more persuasive.
  4. Connect your goals with the role: Describe how the job aligns with your professional aspirations and how it will help you grow in your career. This will show the interviewer that you have thought about the long-term implications of the role and that you are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the company.
  5. Be concise and articulate: Practice your answer to ensure that you can deliver it confidently and clearly during the interview. Aim to strike a balance between providing sufficient information and being concise. Remember to maintain a positive and enthusiastic tone throughout your response.

By following these steps, you can create a well-thought-out and genuine answer to the question “why do you want this job?” This will demonstrate to the interviewer that you are not only capable of doing the job but also motivated and likely to fit well within the company culture.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Why Do You Want This Job – Example answers

Developer Example

I am truly excited about the Developer role at this rapidly growing FinTech company. Your commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions aligns with my passion for creating efficient and user-friendly applications that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Having researched your company, I found that your focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology in financial services resonates with my interests and experience. I am confident that my skills and background in software development make me a strong fit for this position.

What particularly attracts me to this role is the opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment that fosters professional growth. I believe that working at your company will not only allow me to broaden my knowledge of the FinTech industry but also provide me with the chance to contribute to projects that shape the future of financial services.

Overall, I am enthusiastic about this Developer role because it perfectly aligns with my career goals and passion for FinTech. I am confident that my skills, experience, and personal traits make me an ideal candidate for this position, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued success.

Civil Service Example

I’m really excited about joining the Civil Service as a Business Analyst. I’ve come to appreciate its important role in supporting government functions and driving improvements across various sectors, which aligns with my desire to contribute to meaningful projects.

My experience as a Business Analyst has helped me develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which I believe would be valuable in this role. I enjoy collaborating with diverse teams and developing solutions to improve processes and achieve goals.

What draws me to this role is the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects that directly influence citizens’ well-being. I’m eager to apply my skills in a context where I can make a tangible difference and help shape policies that benefit everyone.

I see working for the Civil Service as a chance to grow professionally, learning from experts in various fields. I’m enthusiastic about this Business Analyst role and confident that my skills, experience, and personal traits make me a great candidate for this position.

Newly Qualified Teacher Example

Other Interview Question and Answers

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Interview Question: Tell me about a time you failed – Answer Examples
Interview Question: Tell me about a time where you were responsible for bringing people together to work on a project or piece of work? – Answer Tips
34 Change Manager Interview Questions (And Sample Answers)

Interview Question: Tell me about a time you failed – Answer Examples

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Question forms part of

Civil Service Question Bank
Project Manager Question & Answer Sheet

Other interview questions that are similar

  1. Describe a situation where you faced a significant obstacle or setback. How did you overcome it?
  2. Tell me about a time when you made a mistake at work. How did you handle it and what did you learn from the experience?
  3. Can you give an example of a goal you didn’t meet and how you handled it?
  4. Share an instance where you faced conflict with a colleague or team member. How did you resolve it?
  5. Describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment. How did you handle it?
  6. Tell me about a challenging project you worked on and the steps you took to achieve success.
  7. Can you provide an example of when you had to make a difficult decision at work? What factors did you consider, and what was the outcome?
  8. Share a situation where you had to take on a leadership role unexpectedly. How did you manage the responsibility?
  9. Describe a time when you had to persuade someone to see things from your perspective. How did you approach the situation?
  10. Tell me about a time when you had to juggle multiple priorities. How did you manage your time and ensure that all tasks were completed?

What the interviewer is looking for by asking this question

There are probably an infinite number of questions that the interviewer could ask you on the day. Some questions are incredibly common appearing in almost every interview you will have, while other questions you might hear once and never again regardless of how many jobs you apply for.

Fundamentally though all interview questions are really trying to find out one of 3 things:

1 – Can you do the job? (Do you have the skills/experience needed?)
2 – Will you do the job? (Do you have the drive/motivation to get the job done?)
3 – Will you fit in? (Does your personality match the workplace culture? Are you likeable?)

That’s it. Those are the 3 things that the interviewer is trying to ascertain. Every question that is asked of you will fundamentally be trying to resolve one (or more) of these 3 things.

“Tell me about a time you failed” is a question that touches on all three of these fundamental aspects that interviewers seek to understand about a candidate. By asking you to share an instance of failure, they can evaluate your skills, motivation, and cultural fit within the organization.

When you describe a failure or challenge, the interviewer can assess your ability to perform the job by understanding the skills and experience you drew upon to address the situation. Your explanation of how you approached the problem and attempted to solve it demonstrates your competency and adaptability.

Furthermore, discussing a failure allows the interviewer to gauge your motivation and drive. If you share how you learned from the experience, it shows that you’re dedicated to personal growth and self-improvement. This illustrates your willingness to take on challenges and see them through, which speaks to your work ethic and determination.

Finally, your response to this question can also reveal aspects of your personality and how well you might fit into the company culture. By sharing how you dealt with failure, you offer insights into your communication style, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle setbacks. An interviewer can determine whether your approach aligns with the company’s values and whether you would be a good fit with the existing team.

How Best To Answer ‘Tell Me About A Time You Failed’

Unless the question you are asked is a straight ‘up or down / yes or no’ style question then you are going to need to learn to describe, expand and elaborate on your answers. The best way of doing this is to follow the B-STAR technique for answering interview questions.

Answers using this method follow the below structure:

B – Belief – What are your thoughts and feelings with regard to the subject matter?

S – Situation – What was going on? Briefly explain the scenario that was taking place. – Try not to spend too much time describing the situation. The bulk of your answer needs to be about you and what you did so keep the situation simple to understand and even simpler to describe.

T – Task – What was your role in the action? Most of the time it is best that you are taking an active rather than passive role in the encounter.

A – Activity (or action) – What did you do? Detail the steps you took and why you took them. – This should take up the bulk of your time answering the question.

R – Result – How did everything end up? Try to use figures if possible (e.g. we cut costs by $3m, customer satisfaction scores increased 25%, failures reduced to zero, ice cream parties increased ten-fold etc.).

Remember though that the B-STAR technique is descriptive not prescriptive. You do not need to follow this flow strictly, go with what is best for your answers and that will allow you to put your point across and show your experience the best.

What You Should NOT Do When Answering Questions

Do not avoid the question.

Do not downplay the situation.

Do not overhype the situation.

Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.

Do not reject the premise of the question.

Do not have a passive role in the situation.

Do not give a one-sentence answer.

Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action

Tell Me About A Time You Failed – Example answer

Project Manager Example

I firmly believe that failure is an opportunity to learn and grow, and it’s essential to confront challenges head-on and adapt our strategies. Let me share a time when I faced a failure as a project manager.

I was leading a software development project for a client, and despite thorough planning and risk management, the project went over budget and missed the deadline. The main issue was improper resource allocation and ineffective communication with the development team, which led to unexpected roadblocks and delays in the project timeline.

In that situation, my role was to lead the project, manage resources, and ensure timely delivery. When I realized the project was off track, I took responsibility for the failure and immediately took steps to address the issues. I met with the client to apologize and transparently discuss the reasons for the project’s shortcomings. I also worked with the development team to identify areas for improvement and implement new processes to prevent similar mistakes in future projects.

This failure was a valuable learning experience for me. It taught me the importance of having a contingency plan in place, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and effectively communicating with all stakeholders. As a result, I’ve become a better project manager, approaching each project with a greater level of caution and preparation.

Fundraising Manager Example

I once faced a failure as a fundraising manager, where I was responsible for securing funding for a non-profit organization. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t secure the necessary funds to meet our target.

I took full responsibility for the failure and immediately took steps to address the issue. I evaluated our fundraising strategies and identified areas for improvement, such as targeting new donor demographics and strengthening relationships with existing donors. I also reached out to stakeholders and donors to understand why we were unable to secure the necessary funds and used that feedback to develop a new plan.

This experience was a valuable lesson for me. It taught me the importance of continuously assessing and adapting fundraising strategies, as well as the value of strong relationships with stakeholders and donors. Because of this, I’ve become a better fundraising manager, approaching each campaign with a greater level of preparation and a more comprehensive understanding of our target audience.

Other Interview Question and Answers

79 Civil Service Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
94 Project Manager Interview Questions (And Example Answers)
Interview Question: Why have you had so many jobs? – Answer Examples
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Interview Question: How did you hear about this position? – Answer Tips