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problem solving on interview
Top 20 problem solving interview questions (example answers included).
Mike Simpson 0 Comments
By Mike Simpson
When candidates prepare for interviews, they usually focus on highlighting their leadership, communication, teamwork, and similar crucial soft skills . However, not everyone gets ready for problem-solving interview questions. And that can be a big mistake.
Problem-solving is relevant to nearly any job on the planet. Yes, it’s more prevalent in certain industries, but it’s helpful almost everywhere.
Regardless of the role you want to land, you may be asked to provide problem-solving examples or describe how you would deal with specific situations. That’s why being ready to showcase your problem-solving skills is so vital.
If you aren’t sure who to tackle problem-solving questions, don’t worry, we have your back. Come with us as we explore this exciting part of the interview process, as well as some problem-solving interview questions and example answers.
What Is Problem-Solving?
When you’re trying to land a position, there’s a good chance you’ll face some problem-solving interview questions. But what exactly is problem-solving? And why is it so important to hiring managers?
Well, the good folks at Merriam-Webster define problem-solving as “the process or act of finding a solution to a problem.” While that may seem like common sense, there’s a critical part to that definition that should catch your eye.
What part is that? The word “process.”
In the end, problem-solving is an activity. It’s your ability to take appropriate steps to find answers, determine how to proceed, or otherwise overcome the challenge.
Being great at it usually means having a range of helpful problem-solving skills and traits. Research, diligence, patience, attention-to-detail , collaboration… they can all play a role. So can analytical thinking , creativity, and open-mindedness.
But why do hiring managers worry about your problem-solving skills? Well, mainly, because every job comes with its fair share of problems.
While problem-solving is relevant to scientific, technical, legal, medical, and a whole slew of other careers. It helps you overcome challenges and deal with the unexpected. It plays a role in troubleshooting and innovation. That’s why it matters to hiring managers.
How to Answer Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Okay, before we get to our examples, let’s take a quick second to talk about strategy. Knowing how to answer problem-solving interview questions is crucial. Why? Because the hiring manager might ask you something that you don’t anticipate.
Problem-solving interview questions are all about seeing how you think. As a result, they can be a bit… unconventional.
These aren’t your run-of-the-mill job interview questions . Instead, they are tricky behavioral interview questions . After all, the goal is to find out how you approach problem-solving, so most are going to feature scenarios, brainteasers, or something similar.
So, having a great strategy means knowing how to deal with behavioral questions. Luckily, there are a couple of tools that can help.
First, when it comes to the classic approach to behavioral interview questions, look no further than the STAR Method . With the STAR method, you learn how to turn your answers into captivating stories. This makes your responses tons more engaging, ensuring you keep the hiring manager’s attention from beginning to end.
Now, should you stop with the STAR Method? Of course not. If you want to take your answers to the next level, spend some time with the Tailoring Method , too.
With the Tailoring Method, it’s all about relevance. So, if you get a chance to choose an example that demonstrates your problem-solving skills, this is really the way to go.
We also wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview. After all, hiring managers will often ask you more generalized interview questions!
Click below to get your free PDF now:
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Top 3 Problem-Solving-Based Interview Questions
Alright, here is what you’ve been waiting for: the problem-solving questions and sample answers.
While many questions in this category are job-specific, these tend to apply to nearly any job. That means there’s a good chance you’ll come across them at some point in your career, making them a great starting point when you’re practicing for an interview.
So, let’s dive in, shall we? Here’s a look at the top three problem-solving interview questions and example responses.
1. Can you tell me about a time when you had to solve a challenging problem?
In the land of problem-solving questions, this one might be your best-case scenario. It lets you choose your own problem-solving examples to highlight, putting you in complete control.
When you choose an example, go with one that is relevant to what you’ll face in the role. The closer the match, the better the answer is in the eyes of the hiring manager.
EXAMPLE ANSWER:
“While working as a mobile telecom support specialist for a large organization, we had to transition our MDM service from one vendor to another within 45 days. This personally physically handling 500 devices within the agency. Devices had to be gathered from the headquarters and satellite offices, which were located all across the state, something that was challenging even without the tight deadline. I approached the situation by identifying the location assignment of all personnel within the organization, enabling me to estimate transit times for receiving the devices. Next, I timed out how many devices I could personally update in a day. Together, this allowed me to create a general timeline. After that, I coordinated with each location, both expressing the urgency of adhering to deadlines and scheduling bulk shipping options. While there were occasional bouts of resistance, I worked with location leaders to calm concerns and facilitate action. While performing all of the updates was daunting, my approach to organizing the event made it a success. Ultimately, the entire transition was finished five days before the deadline, exceeding the expectations of many.”
2. Describe a time where you made a mistake. What did you do to fix it?
While this might not look like it’s based on problem-solving on the surface, it actually is. When you make a mistake, it creates a challenge, one you have to work your way through. At a minimum, it’s an opportunity to highlight problem-solving skills, even if you don’t address the topic directly.
When you choose an example, you want to go with a situation where the end was positive. However, the issue still has to be significant, causing something negative to happen in the moment that you, ideally, overcame.
“When I first began in a supervisory role, I had trouble setting down my individual contributor hat. I tried to keep up with my past duties while also taking on the responsibilities of my new role. As a result, I began rushing and introduced an error into the code of the software my team was updating. The error led to a memory leak. We became aware of the issue when the performance was hindered, though we didn’t immediately know the cause. I dove back into the code, reviewing recent changes, and, ultimately, determined the issue was a mistake on my end. When I made that discovery, I took several steps. First, I let my team know that the error was mine and let them know its nature. Second, I worked with my team to correct the issue, resolving the memory leak. Finally, I took this as a lesson about delegation. I began assigning work to my team more effectively, a move that allowed me to excel as a manager and help them thrive as contributors. It was a crucial learning moment, one that I have valued every day since.”
3. If you identify a potential risk in a project, what steps do you take to prevent it?
Yes, this is also a problem-solving question. The difference is, with this one, it’s not about fixing an issue; it’s about stopping it from happening. Still, you use problem-solving skills along the way, so it falls in this question category.
If you can, use an example of a moment when you mitigated risk in the past. If you haven’t had that opportunity, approach it theoretically, discussing the steps you would take to prevent an issue from developing.
“If I identify a potential risk in a project, my first step is to assess the various factors that could lead to a poor outcome. Prevention requires analysis. Ensuring I fully understand what can trigger the undesired event creates the right foundation, allowing me to figure out how to reduce the likelihood of those events occurring. Once I have the right level of understanding, I come up with a mitigation plan. Exactly what this includes varies depending on the nature of the issue, though it usually involves various steps and checks designed to monitor the project as it progresses to spot paths that may make the problem more likely to happen. I find this approach effective as it combines knowledge and ongoing vigilance. That way, if the project begins to head into risky territory, I can correct its trajectory.”
17 More Problem-Solving-Based Interview Questions
In the world of problem-solving questions, some apply to a wide range of jobs, while others are more niche. For example, customer service reps and IT helpdesk professionals both encounter challenges, but not usually the same kind.
As a result, some of the questions in this list may be more relevant to certain careers than others. However, they all give you insights into what this kind of question looks like, making them worth reviewing.
Here are 17 more problem-solving interview questions you might face off against during your job search:
- How would you describe your problem-solving skills?
- Can you tell me about a time when you had to use creativity to deal with an obstacle?
- Describe a time when you discovered an unmet customer need while assisting a customer and found a way to meet it.
- If you were faced with an upset customer, how would you diffuse the situation?
- Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue.
- Imagine you were overseeing a project and needed a particular item. You have two choices of vendors: one that can deliver on time but would be over budget, and one that’s under budget but would deliver one week later than you need it. How do you figure out which approach to use?
- Your manager wants to upgrade a tool you regularly use for your job and wants your recommendation. How do you formulate one?
- A supplier has said that an item you need for a project isn’t going to be delivered as scheduled, something that would cause your project to fall behind schedule. What do you do to try and keep the timeline on target?
- Can you share an example of a moment where you encountered a unique problem you and your colleagues had never seen before? How did you figure out what to do?
- Imagine you were scheduled to give a presentation with a colleague, and your colleague called in sick right before it was set to begin. What would you do?
- If you are given two urgent tasks from different members of the leadership team, both with the same tight deadline, how do you choose which to tackle first?
- Tell me about a time you and a colleague didn’t see eye-to-eye. How did you decide what to do?
- Describe your troubleshooting process.
- Tell me about a time where there was a problem that you weren’t able to solve. What happened?
- In your opening, what skills or traits make a person an exceptional problem-solver?
- When you face a problem that requires action, do you usually jump in or take a moment to carefully assess the situation?
- When you encounter a new problem you’ve never seen before, what is the first step that you take?
Putting It All Together
At this point, you should have a solid idea of how to approach problem-solving interview questions. Use the tips above to your advantage. That way, you can thrive during your next interview.
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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.
His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.
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Mike simpson.
Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .
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15 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions
In an interview for a big tech company, I was asked if I’d ever resolved a fight — and the exact way I went about handling it. I felt blindsided, and I stammered my way through an excuse of an answer.
It’s a familiar scenario to fellow technical job seekers — and one that risks leaving a sour taste in our mouths. As candidate experience becomes an increasingly critical component of the hiring process, recruiters need to ensure the problem-solving interview questions they prepare don’t dissuade talent in the first place.
Interview questions designed to gauge a candidate’s problem-solving skills are more often than not challenging and vague. Assessing a multifaceted skill like problem solving is tricky — a good problem solver owns the full solution and result, researches well, solves creatively and takes action proactively.
It’s hard to establish an effective way to measure such a skill. But it’s not impossible.
We recommend taking an informed and prepared approach to testing candidates’ problem-solving skills . With that in mind, here’s a list of a few common problem-solving interview questions, the science behind them — and how you can go about administering your own problem-solving questions with the unique challenges of your organization in mind.
Key Takeaways for Effective Problem-Solving Interview Questions
- Problem solving lies at the heart of programming.
- Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE. Problem-solving interview questions should test both technical skills and soft skills.
- STAR, SOAR and PREP are methods a candidate can use to answer some non-technical problem-solving interview questions.
- Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s fit. But you can go one step further by customizing them according to your company’s service, product, vision, and culture.
Technical Problem-Solving Interview Question Examples
Evaluating a candidates’ problem-solving skills while using coding challenges might seem intimidating. The secret is that coding challenges test many things at the same time — like the candidate’s knowledge of data structures and algorithms, clean code practices, and proficiency in specific programming languages, to name a few examples.
Problem solving itself might at first seem like it’s taking a back seat. But technical problem solving lies at the heart of programming, and most coding questions are designed to test a candidate’s problem-solving abilities.
Here are a few examples of technical problem-solving questions:
1. Mini-Max Sum
This well-known challenge, which asks the interviewee to find the maximum and minimum sum among an array of given numbers, is based on a basic but important programming concept called sorting, as well as integer overflow. It tests the candidate’s observational skills, and the answer should elicit a logical, ad-hoc solution.
2. Organizing Containers of Balls
This problem tests the candidate’s knowledge of a variety of programming concepts, like 2D arrays, sorting and iteration. Organizing colored balls in containers based on various conditions is a common question asked in competitive examinations and job interviews, because it’s an effective way to test multiple facets of a candidate’s problem-solving skills.
3. Build a Palindrome
This is a tough problem to crack, and the candidate’s knowledge of concepts like strings and dynamic programming plays a significant role in solving this challenge. This problem-solving example tests the candidate’s ability to think on their feet as well as their ability to write clean, optimized code.
4. Subarray Division
Based on a technique used for searching pairs in a sorted array ( called the “two pointers” technique ), this problem can be solved in just a few lines and judges the candidate’s ability to optimize (as well as basic mathematical skills).
5. The Grid Search
This is a problem of moderate difficulty and tests the candidate’s knowledge of strings and searching algorithms, the latter of which is regularly tested in developer interviews across all levels.
Common Non-Technical Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE . Everyday situations can help illustrate competency, so here are a few questions that focus on past experiences and hypothetical situations to help interviewers gauge problem-solving skills.
1. Given the problem of selecting a new tool to invest in, where and how would you begin this task?
Key Insight : This question offers insight into the candidate’s research skills. Ideally, they would begin by identifying the problem, interviewing stakeholders, gathering insights from the team, and researching what tools exist to best solve for the team’s challenges and goals.
2. Have you ever recognized a potential problem and addressed it before it occurred?
Key Insight: Prevention is often better than cure. The ability to recognize a problem before it occurs takes intuition and an understanding of business needs.
3. A teammate on a time-sensitive project confesses that he’s made a mistake, and it’s putting your team at risk of missing key deadlines. How would you respond?
Key Insight: Sometimes, all the preparation in the world still won’t stop a mishap. Thinking on your feet and managing stress are skills that this question attempts to unearth. Like any other skill, they can be cultivated through practice.
4. Tell me about a time you used a unique problem-solving approach.
Key Insight: Creativity can manifest in many ways, including original or novel ways to tackle a problem. Methods like the 10X approach and reverse brainstorming are a couple of unique approaches to problem solving.
5. Have you ever broken rules for the “greater good?” If yes, can you walk me through the situation?
Key Insight: “Ask for forgiveness, not for permission.” It’s unconventional, but in some situations, it may be the mindset needed to drive a solution to a problem.
6. Tell me about a weakness you overcame at work, and the approach you took.
Key Insight: According to Compass Partnership , “self-awareness allows us to understand how and why we respond in certain situations, giving us the opportunity to take charge of these responses.” It’s easy to get overwhelmed when faced with a problem. Candidates showing high levels of self-awareness are positioned to handle it well.
7. Have you ever owned up to a mistake at work? Can you tell me about it?
Key Insight: Everybody makes mistakes. But owning up to them can be tough, especially at a workplace. Not only does it take courage, but it also requires honesty and a willingness to improve, all signs of 1) a reliable employee and 2) an effective problem solver.
8. How would you approach working with an upset customer?
Key Insight: With the rise of empathy-driven development and more companies choosing to bridge the gap between users and engineers, today’s tech teams speak directly with customers more frequently than ever before. This question brings to light the candidate’s interpersonal skills in a client-facing environment.
9. Have you ever had to solve a problem on your own, but needed to ask for additional help? How did you go about it?
Key Insight: Knowing when you need assistance to complete a task or address a situation is an important quality to have while problem solving. This questions helps the interviewer get a sense of the candidate’s ability to navigate those waters.
10. Let’s say you disagree with your colleague on how to move forward with a project. How would you go about resolving the disagreement?
Key Insight: Conflict resolution is an extremely handy skill for any employee to have; an ideal answer to this question might contain a brief explanation of the conflict or situation, the role played by the candidate and the steps taken by them to arrive at a positive resolution or outcome.
Strategies for Answering Problem-Solving Questions
If you’re a job seeker, chances are you’ll encounter this style of question in your various interview experiences. While problem-solving interview questions may appear simple, they can be easy to fumble — leaving the interviewer without a clear solution or outcome.
It’s important to approach such questions in a structured manner. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to employ in your next problem-solving interview.
1. Shine in Interviews With the STAR Method
S ituation, T ask, A ction, and R esult is a great method that can be employed to answer a problem-solving or behavioral interview question. Here’s a breakdown of these steps:
- Situation : A good way to address almost any interview question is to lay out and define the situation and circumstances.
- Task : Define the problem or goal that needs to be addressed. Coding questions are often multifaceted, so this step is particularly important when answering technical problem-solving questions.
- Action : How did you go about solving the problem? Try to be as specific as possible, and state your plan in steps if you can.
- Result : Wrap it up by stating the outcome achieved.
2. Rise above difficult questions using the SOAR method
A very similar approach to the STAR method, SOAR stands for S ituation, O bstacle, A ction, and R esults .
- Situation: Explain the state of affairs. It’s important to steer clear of stating any personal opinions in this step; focus on the facts.
- Obstacle: State the challenge or problem you faced.
- Action: Detail carefully how you went about overcoming this obstacle.
- Result: What was the end result? Apart from overcoming the obstacle, did you achieve anything else? What did you learn in the process?
3. Do It the PREP Way
Traditionally used as a method to make effective presentations, the P oint, R eason, E xample, P oint method can also be used to answer problem-solving interview questions.
- Point : State the solution in plain terms.
- Reasons: Follow up the solution by detailing your case — and include any data or insights that support your solution.
- Example: In addition to objective data and insights, drive your answer home by contextualizing the solution in a real-world example.
- Point : Reiterate the solution to make it come full circle.
How to Customize Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s skill level, but recruiters can go one step further by customizing these problem-solving questions according to their company’s service, product, vision, or culture.
Here are some tips to do so:
- Break down the job’s responsibilities into smaller tasks. Job descriptions may contain ambiguous responsibilities like “manage team projects effectively.” To formulate an effective problem-solving question, envision what this task might look like in a real-world context and develop a question around it.
- Tailor questions to the role at hand. Apart from making for an effective problem-solving question, it gives the candidate the impression you’re an informed technical recruiter. For example, an engineer will likely have attended many scrums. So, a good question to ask is: “Suppose you notice your scrums are turning unproductive. How would you go about addressing this?”
- Consider the tools and technologies the candidate will use on the job. For example, if Jira is the primary project management tool, a good problem-solving interview question might be: “Can you tell me about a time you simplified a complex workflow — and the tools you used to do so?”
- If you don’t know where to start, your company’s core values can often provide direction. If one of the core values is “ownership,” for example, consider asking a question like: “Can you walk us through a project you owned from start to finish?”
- Sometimes, developing custom content can be difficult even with all these tips considered. Our platform has a vast selection of problem-solving examples that are designed to help recruiters ask the right questions to help nail their next technical interview.
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Depending upon your industry, you may be asked to answer problem-solving questions at some point during your interview with a hiring manager. These questions are common in IT, engineering, and other technical sectors where strong data analysis and problem-solving competencies are essential. However, once in a while, you’ll be asked to field a problem-solving interview question even if you aren’t in a strictly technical discipline.
Here’s how to prepare so that you’ll be able to “think on your feet” should a problem-solving question be asked.
Why Companies Ask Problem-Solving Questions
Problem-solving questions often fall into the category of interview questions without a right (or wrong) answer . Companies seek proactive, solutions-oriented employees for many of the jobs they are filling, and are more interested in the approach you’d take to solve a problem than they are in you providing the “correct” answer.
These types of questions are good examples of situational interview questions . Employers try to predict how you could solve a work problem for them in the future, based upon how you have either done so in the past or are currently doing so in the interview.
These questions may also be asked to assess your command of a key industry-specific process or technology. This holds true especially for interviews conducted by tech employers . If you are in a technical field, be ready to discuss how you would solve common project development, implementation problems, or obstacles.
Techniques for Answering Problem-Solving Interview Questions
How you should answer a problem-solving question will depend upon whether you are participating in a solo or a group interview .
Tips for Problem Solving in a Solo Interview
If you are asked to solve a problem in a solo interview, it’s an excellent strategy to demonstrate how you are able to follow the five primary steps in problem solving :
- Analyze the factors that caused the problem.
- Brainstorm possible solutions.
- Evaluate the cost and potential viability of these solutions.
- Implement a plan.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your intervention.
Alternatively, you may be asked how you solved a problem in the past. The Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) interview response technique is a highly effective way to structure a detailed anecdote in response to a situational or a behavioral interview question. In this technique, you describe:
- A Situation (S) in which a problem arose
- The Task (T) —in this case, a problem that you had to solve
- The Action (A) or process you initiated to solve the problem
- The Results (R) of your problem-solving action
Tips for Problem Solving in a Group Interview
If you are in a situation where several candidates are being interviewed together, you may be asked to work together as a team to complete a problem-solving or work simulation. Afterwards, it is common for interviewers to ask the group to describe the process they took to address the problem.
The STAR interview response technique can work well in this situation.
During the problem-solving portion of the work simulation itself, remember to be a good listener as well as an innovative team collaborator.
If you have the opportunity to lead (without steamrolling) the group, recognize each person’s contributions as you later describe your collective problem-solving strategy to the interviewer.
Sample Problem-Solving Q&As
Here are a few examples of how to answer problem-solving questions. Use them as models in formulating your own responses as you practice for your interview .
How would you deal with an unanticipated understaffing situation?
This problem seems to occur every holiday season, so I’ve developed strategies to ensure that we have adequate staff coverage. The most important trick, I think, is to be proactive. I keep a current list of personnel who are willing to come in at a moment’s notice to fill others’ shifts—especially around major holidays (when people are likely to call in sick). Each time an employee agrees to cover someone else’s shift, I make a point to recognize them with a big “thank you” sign I write on our office whiteboard. This keeps morale high enough that I can generally find someone at a moment’s notice to come in. I also try to cross-train most of our staff so that they can cover for their colleagues when necessary. As a last resort, I’ll cover their shift myself if that’s required.
Why It Works: This candidate shows that they understand that it’s sometimes necessary to have multiple strategies in their “toolbox” to address unexpected problems in the workplace. The candidate describes how they are capable of examining options and coming up with a plan.
What would happen if you realized that you and your team wouldn’t be able to meet the deadline for your deliverables? What would you do?
This actually happened nine months ago, when our team was prepared to go live with a new product. A month before launch, we learned that one of our primary part’s shipment would be delayed. I immediately tried to contract with another supplier—although I sourced one, they couldn’t promise that they’d be able to deliver by our deadline. However, I was as transparent as possible throughout the situation, alerting management and our different department heads about the issue. Fortunately, the R&D engineers were then able to do a quick redesign that allowed us to use another part we could access quickly—and that turned out to be 20% cheaper than the original part! We met our deadline and saved costs at the same time.
Why It Works: This answer uses the STAR technique to describe how the candidate solved a work issue in the past. It’s especially effective because they also quantify one of the results of their actions with a percentage.
Answers to problem-solving questions can be more impactful if you quantify your contributions with numbers, dollar figures, or percentages .
How would you deal with a difficult subordinate who publicly questioned your authority?
First, I try to analyze the situation rather than the employee’s words to see what might have caused their discontent. I would then speak with them privately, giving them the chance to air their grievance and myself the opportunity to work with them to find a solution. Sometimes, all it takes to soothe an employee is to let them know that their opinions are respected. However, if the employee continued to spread negativity and diminish department morale, I would put them on official notice to expect a formal performance review at the end of two weeks, at which point we would discuss their future with our department.
Why It Works : With this response, the interviewee describes the logical problem-solving process they use when handling escalated issues with personnel, including how they make contingency plans if the initial interventions don’t work out.
- Why are you the best person for this job? - Best Answers
- Tell me about something that’s not on your resume. - Best Answers
- How have you handled a challenge? - Best Answers
Key Takeaways
Describe Your Process Explain to your interviewer the steps you would take to solve a workplace problem.
Use Examples Provide detailed illustrations of how you have successfully solved problems in the past.
Practice Makes Perfect Brainstorm your own answers to questions about problem solving, then practice delivering these responses.
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26 Good Examples of Problem Solving (Interview Answers)
By Biron Clark
Published: November 15, 2023
Employers like to hire people who can solve problems and work well under pressure. A job rarely goes 100% according to plan, so hiring managers will be more likely to hire you if you seem like you can handle unexpected challenges while staying calm and logical in your approach.
But how do they measure this?
They’re going to ask you interview questions about these problem solving skills, and they might also look for examples of problem solving on your resume and cover letter. So coming up, I’m going to share a list of examples of problem solving, whether you’re an experienced job seeker or recent graduate.
Then I’ll share sample interview answers to, “Give an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem?”
Problem-Solving Defined
It is the ability to identify the problem, prioritize based on gravity and urgency, analyze the root cause, gather relevant information, develop and evaluate viable solutions, decide on the most effective and logical solution, and plan and execute implementation.
Problem-solving also involves critical thinking, communication, listening, creativity, research, data gathering, risk assessment, continuous learning, decision-making, and other soft and technical skills.
Solving problems not only prevent losses or damages but also boosts self-confidence and reputation when you successfully execute it. The spotlight shines on you when people see you handle issues with ease and savvy despite the challenges. Your ability and potential to be a future leader that can take on more significant roles and tackle bigger setbacks shine through. Problem-solving is a skill you can master by learning from others and acquiring wisdom from their and your own experiences.
It takes a village to come up with solutions, but a good problem solver can steer the team towards the best choice and implement it to achieve the desired result.
Watch: 26 Good Examples of Problem Solving
Examples of problem solving scenarios in the workplace.
- Correcting a mistake at work, whether it was made by you or someone else
- Overcoming a delay at work through problem solving and communication
- Resolving an issue with a difficult or upset customer
- Overcoming issues related to a limited budget, and still delivering good work through the use of creative problem solving
- Overcoming a scheduling/staffing shortage in the department to still deliver excellent work
- Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues
- Handling and resolving a conflict with a coworker
- Solving any problems related to money, customer billing, accounting and bookkeeping, etc.
- Taking initiative when another team member overlooked or missed something important
- Taking initiative to meet with your superior to discuss a problem before it became potentially worse
- Solving a safety issue at work or reporting the issue to those who could solve it
- Using problem solving abilities to reduce/eliminate a company expense
- Finding a way to make the company more profitable through new service or product offerings, new pricing ideas, promotion and sale ideas, etc.
- Changing how a process, team, or task is organized to make it more efficient
- Using creative thinking to come up with a solution that the company hasn’t used before
- Performing research to collect data and information to find a new solution to a problem
- Boosting a company or team’s performance by improving some aspect of communication among employees
- Finding a new piece of data that can guide a company’s decisions or strategy better in a certain area
Problem Solving Examples for Recent Grads/Entry Level Job Seekers
- Coordinating work between team members in a class project
- Reassigning a missing team member’s work to other group members in a class project
- Adjusting your workflow on a project to accommodate a tight deadline
- Speaking to your professor to get help when you were struggling or unsure about a project
- Asking classmates, peers, or professors for help in an area of struggle
- Talking to your academic advisor to brainstorm solutions to a problem you were facing
- Researching solutions to an academic problem online, via Google or other methods
- Using problem solving and creative thinking to obtain an internship or other work opportunity during school after struggling at first
You can share all of the examples above when you’re asked questions about problem solving in your interview. As you can see, even if you have no professional work experience, it’s possible to think back to problems and unexpected challenges that you faced in your studies and discuss how you solved them.
Interview Answers to “Give an Example of an Occasion When You Used Logic to Solve a Problem”
Now, let’s look at some sample interview answers to, “Give me an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem,” since you’re likely to hear this interview question in all sorts of industries.
Example Answer 1:
At my current job, I recently solved a problem where a client was upset about our software pricing. They had misunderstood the sales representative who explained pricing originally, and when their package renewed for its second month, they called to complain about the invoice. I apologized for the confusion and then spoke to our billing team to see what type of solution we could come up with. We decided that the best course of action was to offer a long-term pricing package that would provide a discount. This not only solved the problem but got the customer to agree to a longer-term contract, which means we’ll keep their business for at least one year now, and they’re happy with the pricing. I feel I got the best possible outcome and the way I chose to solve the problem was effective.
Example Answer 2:
In my last job, I had to do quite a bit of problem solving related to our shift scheduling. We had four people quit within a week and the department was severely understaffed. I coordinated a ramp-up of our hiring efforts, I got approval from the department head to offer bonuses for overtime work, and then I found eight employees who were willing to do overtime this month. I think the key problem solving skills here were taking initiative, communicating clearly, and reacting quickly to solve this problem before it became an even bigger issue.
Example Answer 3:
In my current marketing role, my manager asked me to come up with a solution to our declining social media engagement. I assessed our current strategy and recent results, analyzed what some of our top competitors were doing, and then came up with an exact blueprint we could follow this year to emulate our best competitors but also stand out and develop a unique voice as a brand. I feel this is a good example of using logic to solve a problem because it was based on analysis and observation of competitors, rather than guessing or quickly reacting to the situation without reliable data. I always use logic and data to solve problems when possible. The project turned out to be a success and we increased our social media engagement by an average of 82% by the end of the year.
Answering Questions About Problem Solving with the STAR Method
When you answer interview questions about problem solving scenarios, or if you decide to demonstrate your problem solving skills in a cover letter (which is a good idea any time the job description mention problem solving as a necessary skill), I recommend using the STAR method to tell your story.
STAR stands for:
It’s a simple way of walking the listener or reader through the story in a way that will make sense to them. So before jumping in and talking about the problem that needed solving, make sure to describe the general situation. What job/company were you working at? When was this? Then, you can describe the task at hand and the problem that needed solving. After this, describe the course of action you chose and why. Ideally, show that you evaluated all the information you could given the time you had, and made a decision based on logic and fact.
Finally, describe a positive result you got.
Whether you’re answering interview questions about problem solving or writing a cover letter, you should only choose examples where you got a positive result and successfully solved the issue.
Example answer:
Situation : We had an irate client who was a social media influencer and had impossible delivery time demands we could not meet. She spoke negatively about us in her vlog and asked her followers to boycott our products. (Task : To develop an official statement to explain our company’s side, clarify the issue, and prevent it from getting out of hand). Action : I drafted a statement that balanced empathy, understanding, and utmost customer service with facts, logic, and fairness. It was direct, simple, succinct, and phrased to highlight our brand values while addressing the issue in a logical yet sensitive way. We also tapped our influencer partners to subtly and indirectly share their positive experiences with our brand so we could counter the negative content being shared online. Result : We got the results we worked for through proper communication and a positive and strategic campaign. The irate client agreed to have a dialogue with us. She apologized to us, and we reaffirmed our commitment to delivering quality service to all. We assured her that she can reach out to us anytime regarding her purchases and that we’d gladly accommodate her requests whenever possible. She also retracted her negative statements in her vlog and urged her followers to keep supporting our brand.
What Are Good Outcomes of Problem Solving?
Whenever you answer interview questions about problem solving or share examples of problem solving in a cover letter, you want to be sure you’re sharing a positive outcome.
Below are good outcomes of problem solving:
- Saving the company time or money
- Making the company money
- Pleasing/keeping a customer
- Obtaining new customers
- Solving a safety issue
- Solving a staffing/scheduling issue
- Solving a logistical issue
- Solving a company hiring issue
- Solving a technical/software issue
- Making a process more efficient and faster for the company
- Creating a new business process to make the company more profitable
- Improving the company’s brand/image/reputation
- Getting the company positive reviews from customers/clients
Every employer wants to make more money, save money, and save time. If you can assess your problem solving experience and think about how you’ve helped past employers in those three areas, then that’s a great start. That’s where I recommend you begin looking for stories of times you had to solve problems.
Tips to Improve Your Problem Solving Skills
Throughout your career, you’re going to get hired for better jobs and earn more money if you can show employers that you’re a problem solver. So to improve your problem solving skills, I recommend always analyzing a problem and situation before acting. When discussing problem solving with employers, you never want to sound like you rush or make impulsive decisions. They want to see fact-based or data-based decisions when you solve problems.
Next, to get better at solving problems, analyze the outcomes of past solutions you came up with. You can recognize what works and what doesn’t. Think about how you can get better at researching and analyzing a situation, but also how you can get better at communicating, deciding the right people in the organization to talk to and “pull in” to help you if needed, etc.
Finally, practice staying calm even in stressful situations. Take a few minutes to walk outside if needed. Step away from your phone and computer to clear your head. A work problem is rarely so urgent that you cannot take five minutes to think (with the possible exception of safety problems), and you’ll get better outcomes if you solve problems by acting logically instead of rushing to react in a panic.
You can use all of the ideas above to describe your problem solving skills when asked interview questions about the topic. If you say that you do the things above, employers will be impressed when they assess your problem solving ability.
If you practice the tips above, you’ll be ready to share detailed, impressive stories and problem solving examples that will make hiring managers want to offer you the job. Every employer appreciates a problem solver, whether solving problems is a requirement listed on the job description or not. And you never know which hiring manager or interviewer will ask you about a time you solved a problem, so you should always be ready to discuss this when applying for a job.
Related interview questions & answers:
- How do you handle stress?
- How do you handle conflict?
- Tell me about a time when you failed
About the Author
Read more articles by Biron Clark
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13 Problem-Solving Interview Questions to Assess a Candidate
Solving problems is something we do every day – whether it be at work or throughout our personal lives. However, what we often tend to forget about is that each one of us has different approaches to finding solutions and solving problems.
As cognitive skills, according to World Economic Forum, especially complex problem-solving in the workplace, are reportedly growing in importance – so is the urgency to be able to assess these skills in candidates. However, these skills cannot be easily assessed by looking at someone’s CV or motivation letter. This is precisely why many employers have turned to assessing problem solving abilities during the interview process.
In this blog, you will find out:
- 5 aspects of what make up problem solving ability
2 different types of problem solving styles
- 13 interview questions to determine problem-solving abilities
Disadvantages of assessing problem-solving in interviews
What is problem-solving skill/ability.
A problem can be defined as a gap between the current situation and the desired outcome. To fill this gap, problem-solving abilities are needed. Problem-solving in the workplace describes our way of thinking and the behaviour we engage in to obtain the desired outcome we seek, which could be attaining a certain goal or finding a satisfactory answer to our questions.
In the workplace, employees are expected to solve problems daily, ultimately ensuring the smooth functioning of the company. Therefore, problem-solving ability is one of the most important aspects which needs to be assessed prior to hiring. Problem-solving ability is associated with several sub-skills depending on the nature of the tasks involved in the profession. For instance, a successful business consultant might want to be equipped with good communication skills, empathy, and analytical thinking, all of which can be considered sub-skills of problem-solving ability.
However, the thing is that assessing whether someone’s problem solving skills are high or low during an interview process is quite challenging . That is why you should focus on asking questions that allow to understand what kind of a problem solving style the candidate possesses.
Individuals might adopt different problem-solving strategies (otherwise also called styles) based on the information available for the problem, the time they spend on planning before they take action, or whether they like to test multiple solutions before deciding on which solution is the optimal one. The main problem-solving styles can be classified as intuitive and systematic, but what are the differences between these two styles of problem-solving?
Individuals with more systematic problem-solving style
- They have a higher tendency to first identify the situation and analytically disentangle problems into several components, then logically evaluate the available alternatives and try to find a rule to solve problems.
- At the end of the process, they may also evaluate the consequence of the whole process to possibly adjust their strategy in the future. However, they might face difficulty when tackling ill-structured or defined problems, whereby they cannot generate a promising plan to act.
- They may also struggle under time constraints when intuitive decisions need to be made.
Individuals that prefer more intuitive problem-solving style
- They prefer relying on their “gut feeling” when solving problems. While they may rely on their intuition to assess facts, they also often take their feelings and non-verbal cues from their surrounding into consideration.
- They are open to quickly switching to alternative solutions when things do not work out. Using this strategy, they are good at dealing with uncertainty, ill-defined problems or novel problems with no real information.
- However, this kind of thinking pattern might work sometimes but can be less effective with more complex problems and end up being more time-consuming overall than a more systematic approach.
Why you should assess problem solving style not ability during interviews?
Problem-solving style refers to an individual’s preferred approach to solving problems, such as relying on intuition or using a systematic approach. This is a relatively stable trait that can be identified through the candidate’s responses to interview questions.
In contrast, problem-solving ability is a multifaceted skill that involves various cognitive processes, such as critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity. It can be difficult to assess a candidate’s problem-solving ability solely through interview questions because the interview setting may not provide a realistic representation of the types of problems the candidate would encounter on the job.
13 problem-solving interview questions to assess candidates
Let’s go through each question and discuss how candidates might answer and what that could indicate about their problem-solving abilities & style:
1.Can you describe a situation where you had to solve a problem without having all the necessary information at hand? How did you approach it?
A systematic problem solver might approach answering this question by explaining that they would find it important to try to gather as much information as possible before making a decision, while an intuitive problem solver might mention they would rely more on their instincts and prior experience to make a quick decision.
2. Let’s say you need to solve an unexpected problem but don’t have much information about it. What steps would you take to solve it efficiently?
A systematic problem solver might approach answering this question by breaking down the problem into smaller components and analyzing each one systematically, while an intuitive problem solver might rely more on their gut instincts and previous experience to quickly identify potential solutions.
If a candidate mentions that they would try to gather more information relating the potential causes of the problem to be able to grasp it better, that’s probably a better answer than just stating that they’d just decide to give up.
- Intuitive. “I would start by identifying the key issues and then brainstorming potential solutions. Once I had a few options, I would test them out and iterate until I found the best solution.”
- Systematic. “I would begin by gathering as much information as possible, researching the problem, and analyzing the data. Then, I would create a plan to address the problem and evaluate the effectiveness of the plan as I go along.”
3. How do you approach making decisions? Do you consider all alternatives before deciding on a solution?
When answering this question by explaining the importance of weighing all available options and then considering each one carefully before making a final decision, the candidate might have a more systematic approach to problem solving. Whereas, someone who has a more intuitive approach to solving problems might be answering the question by explaining they prefer to make decisions quickly and based on their instincts.
4. Can you walk me through a situation where you had to solve a problem? What steps did you take to address it?
The main goal of asking this question during the interview is to be able to determine what steps the person chooses to take when addressing the problem. For example, people who seem to plan less and act more intuitively will likely prefer a more trial-and-error, rather than an analytical approach to solving a problem.
A systematic problem solver might approach this question by breaking down the problem into smaller components and explaining each step in a logical order, while an intuitive problem solver might give a more general overview of how they solved the problem without going into as much detail when describing the situation.
- Intuitive. “There was a time when our team was behind on a project deadline, so I just started throwing out ideas for how we could catch up. We eventually settled on a strategy that worked and were able to finish the project on time.”
- Systematic. “When faced with a problem, I like to break it down into smaller components and analyze each part separately. Then, I create a plan of action and evaluate the effectiveness of the plan as I go along.”
5. Tell me about a time when you made a mistake. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience?
When asking the candidate this question, you are looking for an honest, self-critical answer. The candidate should also be able to explain how making this mistake led them to become better at their job. Their answer to this question will serve as an indication of how they deal with challenging situations.
A systematic problem solver might approach this question by analyzing their mistake and coming up with a detailed plan to prevent it from happening again in the future, while an intuitive problem solver might reflect more on how they felt about the mistake and what they learned from the experience.
6. Describe a situation where you used a creative approach to overcome a problem.
Of course, when hiring new people, we want to hire those who take the most innovative and creative approaches to solving problems, as well as implementing these ideas in reality. In this case, you should be looking for an answer in which the candidate is focusing on explaining the creative approach they took, rather than the problem they were trying to solve. After all, you are looking for someone who can solve problems in a creative way rather than someone who can describe the problem.
An intuitive problem solver might excel in this question by describing a creative solution they came up with on the spot, while a systematic problem solver might struggle more with this question if they prefer to rely on logical and analytical approaches.
- Intuitive. “There was a time when we were running out of storage space at work, so I came up with the idea to repurpose some unused areas of the office as storage. It was a bit unconventional, but it worked.”
- Systematic. “When faced with a problem, I like to think outside the box and consider all possible options. I once used a design thinking approach to come up with a creative solution to a complex issue.”
7. Can you give an example of a time when you saw a potential problem as an opportunity? What did you do, and is there anything you would have done differently?
When answering the question, an intuitive problem solver might be better at recognizing potential opportunities in a problem, while a systematic problem solver might be more likely to focus on identifying and mitigating risks.
8. Imagine you’re in a stressful situation at work and you need to come up with a solution quickly. What would you do?
When asking this question to a candidate, you should be on the lookout for an answer that includes all of the following: an example story, placing their focus on how they handled the stressful situation. Basically – focusing more on actions rather than feelings, and highlighting what skills allowed them to deal with the situation successfully.
Candidates’ answers to this question will allow you to determine whether they are better and more inclined to think on their feet and come up with quick solutions (more intuitive). Or in contrast, more comfortable dealing with stressful situations if there are a set of guidelines or procedures to follow (more systematic).
- Intuitive. “In a stressful situation, I like to take a deep breath and then start brainstorming possible solutions. I find that staying calm and thinking creatively helps me come up with the best solution quickly.”
- Systematic. “When faced with a high-pressure situation, I like to rely on the processes and systems that I have in place. I also prioritize the most important tasks and delegate when possible to ensure that everything gets done efficiently.”
9. Are you someone who prefers to solve problems very quickly, or very carefully and slowly?
This question can give insights into whether the candidate is more of an intuitive or systematic problem solver, with intuitive problem solvers often preferring to act quickly and systematically preferring to take a more measured approach.
10. Tell me about a situation where you were faced with multiple problems. How did you choose which problem to prioritize?
This question has everything to do with how the candidate works under pressure. As well as the extent to which they are capable of prioritizing. When faced with multiple problems, the individual should be able to prioritize between tasks that are of high importance and those that are not as urgent.
When answering this question, the candidate should be able to walk you through their prioritization process and rationally argue their choices. While also placing focus on explaining their planning strategies to ensure that no problem is left unsolved.
A systematic problem solver might approach this question by analyzing each problem and weighing the potential impact of each one before making a decision, while an intuitive problem solver might rely more on their instincts and prioritize the problem that seems most urgent.
- Intuitive. “When faced with multiple problems, I prioritize the ones that have the most immediate impact or are the most pressing. I also try to tackle the problems that I feel most confident in solving first.”
- Systematic. “I like to use a decision matrix to evaluate and prioritize multiple problems. I analyze each problem based on factors such as urgency, impact, and feasibility, and then choose the one that has the highest priority.”
11. How do you know when to solve a problem by yourself? And when to ask for help from someone else?
An intuitive problem solver might be more likely to trust their instincts and try to solve the problem on their own, while a systematic problem solver might be more willing to ask for help if they feel that the problem is outside of their area of expertise.
What you should be looking for in the answer to this question is someone’s ability to be able to gauge in which situations they should most definitely ask for help. And in contrast, in which situations it’s not really necessary. This way you will be able to tell whether this person is capable of solving a problem independently or is always asking for help even when it comes to the little things.
12. What do you do in a situation when you cannot seem to find the right solution to a problem?
An intuitive problem solver might be more likely to experiment with different solutions and try to think outside the box, while a systematic problem solver might be more likely to analyze the problem in greater detail and break it down into smaller components to identify potential solutions.
- Intuitive. “When I’m stuck on a problem, I like to step away from it for a bit and come back to it with fresh eyes. I also try to approach the problem from different angles and see if I can find a new perspective.”
- Systematic. “If I can’t find the right solution to a problem, I’ll go back to the data and information I have collected to see if there’s anything I missed. I’ll also consult with colleagues or experts in the field to get their input and ideas.”
13. How would you react when your manager tells you to think more before taking action?
Lastly, save the best for last – a question that will show to you how the candidate deals with feedback provided about the process of solving a problem and the solution itself.
A systematic problem solver might take this feedback as an opportunity to slow down and approach problems more carefully, while an intuitive problem solver might perceive this as a constraint.
In summary, the answers to these questions can provide insights into a candidate’s problem-solving style. While there isn’t necessarily a “right” or “wrong” style, understanding how a candidate approaches problem-solving can help employers identify individuals who are well-suited for different roles and environments.
Interviews are often perceived as the ultimate gateway to finding the perfect candidate, however, in reality, it’s littered with many pitfalls:
- Interviewer bias. The interview process is where our unconscious biases tend to cloud our judgement of a candidate the most.
- Interviews are often inconsistent. Using solely interview questions to assess problem-solving skills allows for no standardized way of presenting results as each candidate you interview will give a different answer to your question and it will become gradually more difficult to compare candidates with each other.
- Interview answers are easily manipulable. Candidates can prepare their answers to these questions, thus leading to unreliable assessment from your side on whether they have the problem-solving skills you are looking for.
- Extremely time-consuming & costly. You’ll probably end up interviewing more people than you should. Just imagine all the time spent interviewing, talking, asking questions, taking notes of the candidate’s answers, and then later on comparing them.
Read more about the 6 downsides assessing candidates problem-solving abilities solely through interviews.
What interview structure allows to best assess candidates problem-solving skills?
According to research , a structured interview is more reliable, valid, and less discriminatory than an unstructured interview. When you structure your interview process, the assessment of personality becomes a designed process. Every question should be carefully chosen to assess the candidate’s skills and knowledge.
Guide: How to set up a structured interview process
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Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers
By Status.net Editorial Team on November 22, 2023 — 9 minutes to read
As you walk into a problem-solving interview, it’s normal to feel nervous about what to expect. These interviews are aimed at assessing how well you can analyze a problem, develop an approach, and arrive at a solution. Employers want to see how you think, break down complex situations into manageable parts, and use creativity to find answers. To help you navigate these interviews, let’s go over some common types of problem-solving questions and answers.
“Can you describe a difficult problem you faced at work and how you solved it?”
When answering this question, choose a specific problem that you faced at work. Make sure to provide a clear description of the issue, the steps you took to address it, and the outcome. Demonstrating that you’re capable of breaking down problems and taking a logical, methodical approach to finding a solution is key.
Example: “At my previous job, our team was struggling with meeting sales targets. I conducted a thorough analysis of our sales data and identified trends in customer behavior. Based on the findings, I recommended a new marketing strategy, which led to a significant increase in sales.”
“Share a time when you had to think creatively to overcome a challenge.”
This question is all about highlighting your ability to think outside the box. Choose an instance where you had to develop a creative solution to solve a problem and demonstrate how your innovative thinking helped achieve a positive outcome.
Example: “When I was working as a project manager, our team was facing budget constraints that threatened the project’s timeline. I came up with an idea to streamline processes and reduce expenses by utilizing free online collaboration tools, which ultimately saved resources and allowed the project to stay on track.”
“How do you approach handling tight deadlines and multiple tasks?”
Employers want to know that you can handle pressure and prioritize your workload effectively. To answer this question, describe specific strategies you’ve used to juggle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines, such as setting daily goals, using time management tools, or delegating tasks when appropriate.
Example: “When facing multiple tasks and tight deadlines, I start by making a detailed to-do list and assigning each task a priority level. I then tackle the most time-sensitive and essential tasks first and work my way down the list. If necessary, I’ll reach out to my colleagues for assistance or delegate some tasks to ensure everything gets completed on time.”
“Tell me about a time when your team faced a conflict, and how did you help resolve it?”
This question is aimed at understanding your conflict resolution skills and ability to work well in a team. Describe a specific instance where your team faced a conflict and explain the steps you took to address the issue, making sure to highlight your communication and collaboration skills.
Example: “When I was leading a team project, two team members had a disagreement regarding the project’s direction. I organized a meeting where everyone could express their opinions and concerns. Together, we were able to come to a consensus and adjust the project plan accordingly, leading to a successful outcome.”
“What steps do you take to identify and prioritize issues when problems arise?”
Showcase your problem-solving process by providing a clear description of the steps you take to identify and prioritize issues. Emphasize your ability to analyze situations, stay organized, and make well-informed decisions.
Example: “When problems arise, I first gather information to get a clear understanding of the situation. Next, I assess the severity and urgency of each issue and prioritize them based on their impact on the project or business objective. Once the priorities are established, I create an action plan to address the most pressing issues first and continue working down the list.”
“Describe an instance where you used your analytical skills to find a solution.”
Employers value analytical thinking as it helps assess complex situations and make sound decisions. Choose a specific example where your analytical skills were put to the test and explain how your analysis led to a successful outcome.
Example: “While working as a financial analyst, I spotted discrepancies in a client’s financial reports. By conducting a thorough examination of the data and identifying irregularities in their expenses, I helped the client uncover a case of fraudulent activity. This led to the implementation of stricter internal controls, preventing future fraud occurrences.”
Related: How to Answer 9 Common Situational Interview Questions
How to Answer 11 Common Behavioral Interview Questions
Types of Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Fact-finding questions.
These questions focus on your ability to collect and analyze information, as well as make deductions based on your findings. Employers want to see that you can dig deep and uncover relevant points before arriving at a conclusion. A couple examples of fact-finding questions include:
- How would you investigate an issue with falling sales numbers?
- Can you walk me through how you would analyze the performance of a new product?
To answer fact-finding questions, pay attention to details, use concrete examples, and demonstrate a structured approach to the problem at hand.
Logic and Reasoning Questions
Logic and reasoning questions assess your ability to think critically and objectively to identify the underlying cause of a problem. Employers want to see if you can apply logic to make informed decisions based on sound reasoning. Some examples of logic and reasoning questions include:
- If you were given a problem with two seemingly correct solutions, how would you determine the best course of action?
- How do you decide on the correct priority when faced with various tasks or issues?
When answering logic and reasoning questions, think out loud and reveal your thought process. Incorporate critical thinking techniques and showcase your ability to weigh the pros and cons of different solutions.
Creative Thinking Questions
Creative thinking questions evaluate your ability to come up with original ideas or unconventional approaches to solving problems. Your potential employer wants to see if you can think outside the box and innovate when faced with new situations. Some examples of creative thinking questions may be:
- Describe a situation where you had to solve a problem using an unexpected approach. How did you develop this solution?
- Can you provide an example of when you collaborated on a project that required unique ideas to meet a deadline?
To answer creative thinking questions, highlight your ability to brainstorm and be resourceful. Show that you can adapt and find new solutions to unexpected challenges.
Issue Resolution Questions
Issue resolution questions focus on your ability to resolve conflicts and reach a compromise while working with others. Employers want to ensure that you can effectively communicate, negotiate, and work with people in difficult situations. A few examples of issue resolution questions are:
- Describe a conflict that occurred within a team, and explain how you helped resolve it.
- How do you handle circumstances when two team members have differing opinions on a project?
In responding to issue resolution questions, emphasize your active listening skills, diplomacy, and ability to empathize with others’ perspectives. Show that you can find a resolution that benefits all parties involved, while maintaining a positive and productive working environment.
Crafting Effective Responses
Understanding the problem.
To craft an effective response to a problem-solving interview question, first, make sure you understand the problem. Listen carefully and take notes if necessary. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or additional information to ensure you have a complete understanding of the problem. This will show the interviewer that you are thorough and detail-oriented.
Creating a Plan
Next, break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps. This will help you structure your response and demonstrate your ability to think logically. Outline the steps you would take to solve the problem and prioritize them according to importance or urgency.
For example:
- Identify the root cause : Determine the primary issue that needs to be addressed.
- Gather necessary information : Collect data and consult with relevant parties to get a complete understanding of the situation.
- Develop possible solutions : Brainstorm different approaches to tackle the problem and list the pros and cons of each solution.
Implementing Solutions
Once you have a plan in place, be prepared to discuss how you would implement your chosen solution. This may include elements such as identifying resources and stakeholders, setting a timeline for completion, and assigning tasks to relevant team members. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and be prepared to explain your rationale for each decision.
For instance, you might say, “I would first gather a team of experts in the field to analyze the data and come up with recommendations. We would create and assign tasks to the team members with deadlines to ensure timely progress. Regular check-ins and progress updates would be scheduled to keep everyone on track and address any issues that arise.”
Reviewing Outcomes
After discussing how you would implement your solution, describe how you would evaluate its effectiveness. This might involve tracking and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs), gathering feedback from stakeholders, or conducting post-implementation reviews to identify lessons learned.
Make your evaluation process concrete by providing examples like these:
- Measuring KPIs : “We would track metrics such as customer satisfaction and retention rates to determine the effectiveness of our solution.”
- Stakeholder feedback : “We would collect feedback from team members and stakeholders to better understand the impact of our solution on the larger organization.”
- Post-implementation reviews : “We would conduct periodic reviews to identify areas where we can improve and optimize our solution.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Too much detail.
Sometimes, you might go into too much detail when answering problem-solving interview questions. It’s important to strike a balance between being thorough and being concise. To avoid this mistake, practice summarizing your experience and the steps you took in solving problems. Use bullet points to help you stay organized and focused on the key points.
- Identify the key elements of the problem
- Outline your thought process and steps briefly
- Don’t get lost in unrelated details
Not Enough Detail
On the other hand, not providing enough detail in your answers can leave the interviewer with a lack of understanding about your problem-solving skills. To avoid this, make sure you’re clear about the problem, the steps you took to address it, and the outcomes you achieved. Back up your answers with examples from your past experiences.
- Explain the problem and why it was significant
- Share specific steps you took to solve the problem
- Discuss the outcomes and any lessons learned
Failing to Relate to Job Role
Another common mistake is failing to connect your answers to the job role you’re interviewing for. Always keep the job requirements and responsibilities in mind when talking about your problem-solving skills. Show how your experiences and approach to problem-solving will directly benefit their organization in the position you’re interviewing for.
- Understand the job requirements and responsibilities
- Relate your answers to the specific context of the job
- Explain how your problem-solving skills will directly benefit the organization
Misunderstanding the Question
It can be easy to miss the point of a question or not understand what the interviewer is asking. Misunderstanding the question can lead to an irrelevant answer. To prevent this, take a moment to process the question and, if necessary, ask the interviewer to clarify. This shows that you’re attentive and genuinely interested in giving a thoughtful answer.
- Listen carefully to the question and take a moment to process it
- If needed, ask the interviewer for clarification
- Respond with a focused and relevant answer
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8 Problem-Solving Interview Questions You Should Ask
Employers need professionals who can cope with change. Especially in a modern workplace that is fast-paced and dynamic, problem-solving skills are more critical now than ever. Of course, having the right people starts with who and how you hire.
To find the best problem solvers, hiring managers rely on problem-solving interview questions and skills tests. In the interview, asking various behavioral-type questions can help assess a candidate’s ability to analyze complex situations, think critically , and develop innovative solutions.
In this article, we’ll explore eight different types of problem-solving interview questions and answers, how to identify any red flags in candidate answers, and a quick-fire list of tips to ensure you bring the best aboard your organization.
TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- Problem-solving interview questions are designed to assess a candidate’s ability to think critically , analyze situations, and find innovative solutions.
- Hiring managers use problem-solving questions in the job interview to evaluate critical skills and competencies such as analytical thinking, decision-making, adaptability, creativity, collaboration, and communication .
- A predictor of future job performance is past performance. By understanding how they have dealt with problems in the past, you can get a better picture of how they might apply those skills to your organization.
- Red flags to watch out for during the job interview include a lack of specific examples, vague or generalized answers, limited adaptability, poor decision-making, lack of collaboration or communication skills, and limited initiative or creativity.
- Tips for using problem-solving questions to screen candidates include asking job-specific questions, encouraging candidates to use the STAR method, asking different types of problem-solving questions, and preparing responses .
- Interviews are great for top-level evaluation of problem-solving skills. But if you want to get to the bottom of candidates’ job-specific competencies and have reliable data to compare top candidates, try skills assessments instead! See our test library for inspiration.
What Are Problem-Solving Interview Questions?
Problem-solving interview questions are a type of behavioral question used to assess a candidate’s ability to think critically, gather and analyze data, and work through logical solutions. There often is no right or wrong answer , but a strong answer will check the boxes by explaining how they would come to a solution by walking through all the relevant steps.
For example, a problem-solving question might be to ask the candidate to describe a time when they had to change their planned course of action at the last moment. The interviewer is not only interested in hearing about how the candidate solved the specific problem but also in learning more about their problem-solving approach and what they did to manage the unexpected change.
It is often thought that past employee behaviour can predict the future. That’s why problem-solving interview questions are often designed to elicit specific examples from the candidate’s own work experience. By talking through concrete examples, interviewers can better understand the candidate’s problem-solving abilities and how they might apply those skills to the job at hand.
Want to know more about behavioral interview questions ?
Why Interviewers Ask Problem-solving Interview Questions
For most hiring managers, the interview is a critical step in the hiring process. In addition to using skills assessments to screen candidates for problem-solving skills, they need to ask problem-solving interview questions to get a deeper understanding of this skill.
Probing questions help hiring managers to evaluate candidates’ critical thinking skills , providing insight into how well they might perform on the job. This approach enables interviewers to understand the candidate’s problem-solving competency and the methods that they adopt.
Interviewers will be looking to understand their capacity to analyze information, generate innovative ideas, adapt to unexpected obstacles, make sound decisions, collaborate with others, and effectively communicate their ideas.
Therefore, an effective problem-solver will also demonstrate a range of other important skills, such as analytical thinking, decision-making, adaptability, creativity, collaboration, and communication.
8 Examples of Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers
Now for the main course of this article. We’re going to dive into eight types of example problem-solving questions that you can use during interviews, explaining why they are relevant and what makes a strong answer.
1. The challenging situation
Recall a difficult problem or challenging situation you encountered in a previous role. How did you analyze the problem, and what steps did you take to arrive at a solution?
The reason: Assesses a candidate’s ability to handle complex and challenging situations as well as their problem-solving approach, communication, and decision-making skills.
The answer: The candidate should share a specific instance of a problematic situation they faced in a previous role and describe their problem-solving approach. Specifically, how they analyzed the problem, including what information they gathered and resources they used to arrive at a solution.
Bonus points: If they can highlight any obstacles they faced and how they overcame them, as well as the positive outcomes of their solution.
2. Problem-solving process
Walk me through your problem-solving process . Explain your personal approach to problem-solving by taking me through the steps you typically follow.
The reason: To better understand a candidate’s problem-solving approach and methodology.
The answer: A solid answer consists of a brief description of the candidate’s personal problem-solving approach , highlighting the steps they typically follow, different options they would consider, and resources used to make informed decisions.
Bonus points: If they also mention any tools or techniques , such as the scientific method or SWOT analysis, and provide examples of times when their approach was successful.
3. Decision-making
Share an instance where you needed to make a quick decision to resolve an urgent problem. How did you decide on a course of action, and what was the outcome?
The reason: Test a candidate’s decision-making and problem-solving skills in stressful and unexpected situations.
The answer: The interviewee should describe how they gathered relevant information quickly, considered various options, and arrived at an informed decision all within a limited space of time.
Bonus points: If they can demonstrate competence in handling stressful situations , especially if the role may require it.
4. Creative thinking
Give me an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a problem. How did you approach the situation differently or creatively, and what was the outcome?
The reason: Understand a candidate’s ability to think creatively and innovatively when faced with a problem.
The answer: The interviewee should describe a specific situation where they used creative thinking to solve a problem. They should explain their unique approach and any unconventional ideas or solutions they came up with.
Bonus points: If they can demonstrate exactly how their creative solution contributed to a successful outcome.
5. Teamwork
Describe a situation where you had to work with a team to solve a complex problem. Detail your role and contributions to the team’s overall success in finding a solution.
The reason: Understand a candidate’s ability to work collaboratively and effectively with others when solving difficult problems.
The answer: How do they narrate a particular scenario where they worked with a team to collectively solve a complex problem, specifying their role and that of the team in arriving at a solution.
Bonus points: If they can recognize the role of others and the strength of the team over the individual in solving the problem.
6. Overcoming obstacles
Can you share an example of a project or task where you had to overcome unexpected obstacles or challenges? How did you adapt and find a solution?
The reason: Handling unexpected obstacles or challenges and their problem-solving skills.
The answer: To answer this question, the interviewee should share a particular project or task where they faced unforeseen challenges or obstacles, how they adapted to the situation and found a solution.
Bonus points: If they emphasize any creative or innovative methods they employed.
7. Dealing with recurring problems
Give me an example of a time when you identified a recurring problem in a process or system. What steps did you take to address the issue and prevent it from happening again?
The reason: This question assesses a candidate’s ability to identify and solve recurring problems and improve processes.
The answer: The job seeker should recount a specific instance of a recurring problem they detected in a process or system .
Bonus points: If they can explain exactly how they got to the root of the problem and the steps or measures they took to prevent its recurrence .
8. Multi-tasking
Tell me about a situation where you had to prioritize multiple tasks or projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and allocate your time to ensure the successful completion of all tasks?
The reason: Tests a candidate’s capacity to organize, prioritize, and multitask to complete multiple assignments or tasks in a timely manner.
The answer: The interviewee should illustrate a specific instance where they successfully managed multiple projects or tasks simultaneously , elaborating on how they prioritized their workload and managed their time efficiently.
Bonus points: If they highlight any project management tools or techniques used, and if the project or task was delivered on time.
Now that we’ve gone over the best possible answers for these questions, let’s look at some of the negatives and red flags to keep an eye out for.
Red Flags for Interviewers Assessing Problem-solving Skills
HR managers should be aware of red flags during an interview that could indicate weakness in a candidate’s problem-solving skills.
Red flags to watch for include:
A lack of specific examples
If a candidate has a hard time recalling specific past problem-solving examples, this may signal they lack relevant experience or have difficulty remembering events.
Vague or generalized answers
Candidates who give vague, general, or unclear answers without describing the specifics of their problem-solving process may lack the ability to solve problems effectively. Is the candidate trying to avoid the question? When probed further, are they able to get more specific?
Limited adaptability
If the individual is unable to describe situations where they persevered through obstacles or utilized alternate solutions, it may display an absence of resilience, unwillingness or incapacity to be adaptable.
Poor decision-making skills
Candidates who lack the ability to explain their thought process, take into account alternative perspectives, or make unwise decisions likely possess weak decision-making skills. Look for candidates who contemplate decisions carefully, consider the pros and cons, and can articulate their reasons for choosing their final course of action.
Lack of collaboration or communication skills
Poor communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills can hinder problem-solving, especially in situations where input or feedback from stakeholders is required.
Limited initiative or creativity
Problem solvers who stand out demonstrate initiative, creativity, and a drive to think unconventionally. Those who cannot offer examples of inventive problem-solving or use only traditional techniques may not possess the ability to come up with creative solutions.
Tips For Using Problem-Solving Questions To Screen Candidates
Before you run off and start asking all of the above problem-solving interview questions, there are a few more factors to consider. To be specific, context is king when it comes to speaking to interviewees during the job interview. And the below tips will help you to understand them better.
- Always be sure to ask job-specific questions
- Start with a robust, written job description that details all the required skills, competencies, and experience to compare with the candidate’s answers
- Keep a look out for generic answers
- Do they use the STAR method to structure their thinking/answers?
- Ask different types of problem-solving questions
- Reword the question if a candidate is having trouble answering it
- Ask how they handle a situation that doesn’t have an easy outcome or answer
- Inquire if they have ever had disciplinary action taken against them and how they handled it
- Ask them team-related questions
- Prepare responses that you can play off of their answers
- Check if they have ever tried to inspire their team
- It’s not out of the ordinary to ask the candidate out-of-the-box questions (How would you escape a blender?) to understand how they solve problems
You’re almost ready to integrate problem-solving questions into your job interview workflow, but there’s just one last topic to cover: Is there a piece of software that can help you to streamline the problem-solving interview process?
Yes, yes, there is.
Evaluating problem-solving skills beyond the interview
While interviews are a useful tool for recruiters and hiring managers to gauge candidates’ competence, they’re not quite sufficient for assessing candidates’ full skill set. That’s especially true when the role requires mastery of a certain technical or power skill, like problem-solving.
A better, more effective way to evaluate candidates ‘ abilities is to combine structured interviews with job-specific skills assessments. Here are some of the reasons why:
- It allows for more objective evaluation. Interviews inherently favor candidates with advanced communication skills, charisma, and confidence. But! Just because a candidate interviews well, doesn’t mean they have what it takes to succeed in the role. Sadly, the interviewer’s perception of a candidate is almost always highly influenced by the candidate’s interviewing skills. Incorporating a skills assessment can help you assess candidates’ actual abilities in role-specific tasks.
- It offers a practical demonstration. Interviews often rely on a candidate’s self-reporting of their skills and past experiences. However, candidates may overstate their abilities or have difficulty articulating their skills in an interview setting. Skill-specific assessments give candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in a practical, real-world context. This allows hiring managers to see the candidate’s skills in action, which can be a more reliable indicator of their ability to perform in the role.
- It guarantees consistent metrics. Assessments provide a consistent set of metrics to compare all candidates. This can help to eliminate bias and ensure fairness in the hiring process. Interviews can be more subjective and may vary greatly depending on the interviewer or the specific questions asked. Having a standardized assessment ensures that all candidates are evaluated on the same criteria.
- It helps to predict job performance. Research has shown that work sample tests, which are a type of skill-specific assessment, are one of the best predictors of job performance. They can provide valuable insights into how a candidate might perform in the job beyond what can be learned from an interview alone.
- It makes the hiring process more efficient. Skill-specific assessments can also make the hiring process more efficient. If a candidate performs poorly on an assessment early in the process, this could save time for both the candidate and the company by indicating that the candidate may not be the right fit for the role.
Interested in exploring a skills-based hiring approach? Take no risks – start with our free account to browse all available assessment templates .
Juste loves investigating through writing. A copywriter by trade, she spent the last ten years in startups, telling stories and building marketing teams. She works at Toggl Hire and writes about how businesses can recruit really great people.
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Problem-Solving Interview Questions And Answers (With Examples)
- How To Answer Tell Me About Yourself?
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Find a Job You Really Want In
Summary. Problem-solving questions are used to focus on a candidates past experience with managing conflicts and overcoming obstacles in the workplace. When answering these questions, be sure to make your answer relevant to the position that you are applying to and be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to provide examples from previous experiences.
Are you in the process of searching for a new job ? If so, you might be getting ready to meet with a hiring manager or a recruiter for a job interview. And if you’re like the majority of job candidates, this stage of the job search process is probably making you feel a fair bit of trepidation.
And no wonder! The interview is a completely necessary step for any job search, but that doesn’t make it any less nerve-wracking to meet with a prospective employer and answer questions about your personality , skills, and professional background.
Key Takeaways:
Being able to solve problems is a skill that almost all job positions need.
Problem-solving questions assess a candidate’s ability to think on their feet, handle pressure, and find creative solutions to complex problems.
Make sure your answer to a problem-solving question tells a story of you as an effective team player.
What Is a Problem-Solving Interview Question?
How to answer a problem-solving interview question, eight examples of common problem-solving interview questions and answers, interviewing successfully, curveball questions, problem-solving faq.
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A problem-solving interview question is a question that focuses on a candidate’s past experience with managing conflicts and overcoming unexpected obstacles in the workplace.
Problem-solving questions can come up in many different forms. As a general rule, however, they will be aimed at uncovering your ability to handle stress and uncertainty in a wide variety of contexts.
When you’re answering problem-solving interview questions, there are a few important tips to keep in mind:
Make your answers relevant to the position that you’re applying to. Always bear in mind that the fundamental goal of any interview question is to provide a hiring manager with a glimpse inside the mind of a candidate.
By asking you a problem-solving question, your interviewer is trying to understand whether or not you’re the type of person that could be relied upon under pressure or during a crisis. Every role, furthermore, comes with its own particular type of pressure.
Be honest about your strengths ( and weaknesses ). Hiring managers tend to be quite good at reading people. Therefore, if you give them a bogus response, they’re very likely to see through that – and to subsequently consider you to be untrustworthy.
Of course, it can be tempting at the moment to fabricate certain details in your response in the attempt to make yourself seem like a better candidate. But inventing details – however small – tends to backfire .
Tell stories that will portray you as a team player. Hiring managers and employers are always on the lookout for job candidates who will collaborate and communicate well amongst a broader team.
Be sure to provide examples of moments in which you took charge. Leadership skills are another key quality that hiring managers and employers seek out in job candidates. And being presented with a problem-solving question, as it turns out, is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your own leadership skills.
Now that we understand the basic principles of problem-solving interview questions and how to respond to them, we’re finally ready to break down some real-world examples. So without any further preamble, here are eight examples of common problem-solving interview questions (as well as some examples of how you might answer them):
Can you tell me about a time when you encountered an unexpected challenge in the workplace? How did you go about dealing with it?
Explanation: With this question , your interviewer will be attempting to get a sense of how well you’re able to adapt to unexpected difficulties. The critical thing to remember when you’re answering this question – as we briefly discussed above – is to recall an incident that will be directly relevant to the role and the organization that you’re applying to.
Here’s an example of a high-quality response to this question:
“I remember a particular day at my previous job when an important deadline was pushed up at the very last minute. As the project manager , it was my responsibility to implement the necessary steps that would enable us to meet this new and truncated deadline. “Many of my peers began to hang their heads, resigning themselves to their belief that there was no hope to meet the new deadline. But I’ve always prided myself on my ability to adapt and thrive within a dynamic and quick-paced work environment – and that’s precisely the personal skill set that I channeled on this occasion. In the end, I reorganized my team’s priorities so that we were able to accommodate the new deadline.”
How would you say you typically respond to problems in general, and in the workplace in particular?
Explanation: This question is primarily designed to gauge a candidate’s ability (or lack thereof) to remain cool, calm, and collected under pressure. The ideal response to this question, in other words, will include a brief personal anecdote that illustrates your level-headedness and your ability to make rational, clear decisions during times of uncertainty.
“I would say that one of the primary qualities that sets me apart from the crowd of other candidates is my ability to remain calm and centered when conditions in the workplace become chaotic. “Looking back, I think that I first began to cultivate this ability during my tenure as a product manager working with a major Silicon Valley start-up. That was a particularly stressful period, but it was also quite instructive – I learned a great deal about staying positive, focused, and productive after an unexpected challenge presented itself. “These days, when I’m confronted by an unexpected problem – whether it’s in my personal life or in my professional life – I immediately channel the conflict management skills that I’ve been honing throughout the duration of my career. This helps a great deal, and my skills in this regard are only continuing to improve.”
Can you tell me about a time when you’ve had to settle a workplace dispute between yourself and a manager or colleague?
Explanation: Always keep in mind that one of the fundamental goals of any problem-solving question is to help a hiring manager gain a clearer sense of a candidate’s ability to work with others.
This question, in particular, is designed to give your interviewer a clearer sense of how well you’re able to communicate and compromise with your colleagues. With that in mind, you should be sure to answer this question in a way that will display a willingness to be fair, empathetic, and respectful to your teammates.
“I recall an incident in my last job in which one of my colleagues felt that I had not provided him with adequate resources to enable him to be successful in a particular project. I was acting as team leader for that particular project, and so it was my responsibility to ensure that everyone in my team was equipped for success. Unfortunately, I had to learn through the proverbial grapevine that this particular colleague bore some ill will toward me. I’ve never been one to participate in idle gossip, and so I decided to speak with this person so that we could begin to find a solution and address his grievances. So I crafted an email to him asking him if he would be interested in joining me for coffee the following day. He accepted the invitation, and during our coffee break, we were able to talk at length about the damage that he felt had been done to him. We devised a mutually agreeable solution on the spot. From then on, we had no significant problems between us.”
Are there any steps that you’ll regularly take during the early stages of a new project to ensure that you’ll be able to manage unexpected problems that occur down the road?
Explanation: This question, above all, is designed to test your ability to plan ahead and mitigate risk. These are both essential qualities that employers typically seek out in job candidates, particularly those who are being vetted for a management or leadership role.
When you’re answering this question, it’s important to emphasize your ability to look ahead towards the future and anticipate potential risks. As with the previous examples that we’ve already examined, the best way to communicate this ability is to provide your interviewer with a concrete example from your previous work history.
“I live my life – and I conduct my work – according to a single, incredibly important motto: “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” I’m a firm believer, in other words, of the primacy of careful planning. Without it, projects are almost always doomed to fail. “In my previous role as a marketing content writer with a major software company, I strived to apply this motto to my work every single day. “Here’s an example: About a year ago, I was responsible for overseeing and launching a new content strategy aimed at driving up consumer engagement. From the very outset, I understood that that particular project could be run off the rails if we did not take into account a considerable number of factors. “I won’t bore you with all of the nitty-gritty details, but the point is that this was a particularly sensitive project that required diligent and careful risk assessment. “Having realized that, my colleagues and I devised a comprehensive and flexible strategy for managing many risks that we envisioned would be awaiting us down the road. That initial step – looking ahead towards the future and mapping out the terrain of potential hazards – proved to be an essential measure for the success of the project.”
Do you consider your problem-solving capabilities to be above average?
Explanation: Hiring managers are always on the lookout for job candidates that stand out from the crowd. It’s even better when they can find a job candidate who knows that they stand out and who expresses that knowledge by being confident in their abilities.
At the same time, it’s never in a job candidate’s best interests to come across as egotistical or arrogant. When you’re responding to a question like this (that is, a question that’s focused on your ability to assess your own talents), it’s important to do your best to come across as self-assured but not pompous.
“Yes, all things considered, I would say that I have a talent for risk assessment, problem-solving, and risk mitigation. “That said, I can’t claim complete ownership over these abilities. In most cases, my demonstrated success in managing risk and solving problems in the workplace can be attributed at least as much to my team members as it can to me. For me to be able to be a successful problem-solver, it helps to be surrounded by colleagues whom I can trust.”
How would you describe your typical immediate reaction to unexpected challenges? Do you prefer to jump straight into the problem-solving process, or do you more commonly take some time to analyze and assess the problem before you dive in?
Explanation: This question is aimed at gauging your patience levels. This one can be a bit tricky because employers will sometimes prefer different responses – it all depends on the type of position and employer you’re applying for.
If you’re applying for a role in a quick-paced working environment that demands swift action , it will benefit you to describe your problem-solving strategy as unflinching and immediate.
If, on the other hand, the role you’re applying to does not demand such immediate action, it will probably be better to describe yourself as a more removed and relaxed problem solver.
But as always, you should never lie to your employer. Most of us will fall somewhere in the middle of these two types of problem solvers and will thereby have no difficulty painting ourselves honestly as one or the other.
However, if you’re definitely one type or the other, then you should describe yourself as such. This will make it much more likely that you’ll end up in a position that will be maximally rewarding both for you and for your employer.
“In most cases, my response to an unexpected problem will entirely depend on the nature of the problem at hand. If it demands immediate action, then I’ll dive right in without hesitation. “If, however, I determine that it would be more beneficial to take a step back and analyze the nature of the problem before we begin to meddle with it, then that’s exactly what I’ll do. “Generally speaking, I would say that I prefer the latter approach – that is, to take a step back and think things through before I begin to try to find a solution. In my experience, this makes it much easier for everyone involved to arrive at a practical and sustainable solution. “That said, I’m also perfectly capable of jumping straight into a problem if it demands immediate attention.”
Can you tell us about a time in which you had to explain a technically complicated subject to a client or customer? How did you approach that process, and how did it turn out?
Explanation: Strong communication skills are essential in the modern workplace. That means that employers tend to seek out job candidates that communicate well with their colleagues and individuals who have varying professional backgrounds and skill sets, including clients, customers, and third-party professionals.
“I recall an incident from many years ago – while I was working as a software engineer for a prominent robotics company – in which I found myself in the position of having to describe incredibly complex engineering details to a client. “This client had no prior experience in software engineering or artificial intelligence, so I had to relate this esoteric information more or less in layman terms. “Thankfully, I was able to employ some useful metaphors and analogies to communicate the information in a manner that this client could appreciate and understand. We went on to establish a successful collaborative partnership that flourished for four years.”
How would you rate your ability to work and succeed without direct supervision from your managers?
Explanation: Employers always tend to place a high value on job candidates who are self-motivated and can maintain high levels of productivity without constant supervision.
This is especially true now that the COVID-19 pandemic has suddenly made it necessary for so many millions of employers to transition to a remote workforce model. This question is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to stay focused and motivated while working remotely or without supervision.
“I’ve always considered myself – and my resume and references will support this – to be an exceptionally self-motivated individual, even when I’m working from home. “In fact, like many employees, I often find that my productivity levels tend to increase when I’m working remotely. I strive to set a positive example for my colleagues, even when we’re not all working under the same roof.”
Generally speaking, the best strategy for success in interviewing for a new job is doing your research beforehand. That means that you should be intimately familiar with the role, department, and company that you’re applying to before you step into the room (or log on to the Zoom meeting ) on the day of your interview.
When you preemptively take the time to carefully research the organization as a whole – and the responsibilities of the job opportunity in particular – you’ll minimize your chances of being caught off guard by an unexpectedly difficult question .
Still, there is only so much background information that you can uncover about an organization and a role before a job interview. No matter how carefully you prepare and how much background research you conduct, there are very likely going to be curveball questions during your job interview that you can’t predict.
In fact, many employers prefer to ask curveball questions (in addition to more run of the mill job interview questions) because they provide an insightful glimpse into a job candidate’s analytical thinking skills – not just their ability to memorize and recite answers to more common interview questions .
To that end, many hiring managers will ask job candidates to answer one or more problem-solving questions during a typical job interview. In contrast to traditional interview questions (such as: “Why do you think that you would be a good fit for this role?”
Or: “What do you consider to be your greatest professional achievement up to the current moment?”), problem-solving questions are specifically designed to assess a job candidate’s ability to think on their feet, handle real pressure, and find creative solutions to complex problems.
They’re also commonly referred to as analytical skills interview questions because they’re designed to gauge a candidate’s ability to make analytical decisions in real-time.
What are problem-solving skills?
Problem-solving skills include skills like research, communication, and decision making. Problem-solving skills allow for you to identify and solve problems effectively and efficiently. Research skills allow for you to identify the problem.
Communication skills allow for you to collaborate with others to come up with a plan to solve the problem. Decision making skills allow you to choose the right solution to the problem.
Why do interviewers ask problem-solving interview questions?
Interviewers ask problem-solving interview questions to see how candidate will approach and solve difficult situations. Interviewers want to see how you handle stress and uncertainty before hiring you for a position. Problem-solving is an important part of the everyday workday so they need to be sure you are capable of solving problems.
How do you solve a problem effectively?
To solve problems effectively you should first break the problem down and try different approaches. Breaking the problem up into different parts will help you have a better understanding and help you decide what your next step is going to be.
Once you see the different parts of the problem, trying different approaches to solve the problem can help you solve it faster. This will also help you determine the appropriate tools you need to solve the problem.
U.S. Department of Labor – Interview Tips
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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
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Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Problem-solving interview questions are designed to test a candidate's ability to identify obstacles, potential issues, or key opportunities, and then implement effective solutions accordingly. Our collection of problem-solving interview questions includes explanations and red flags to look out for during an interview.
Problem-Solving Interview Questions — PDF Download:
Download our list of problem-solving interview questions in PDF format and use them in your next interview.
Problem-Solving Questions to Ask in an Interview:
1. what was your biggest work-related problem, and how did you resolve it.
This is a great introductory question since it allows the candidate to describe their problem-solving process in as much detail as they like. Top candidates will explain why the problem occurred, how they resolved it, and why they chose that method.
Red flags: the candidate cannot think of anything specific or describes a problem that was resolved quickly and easily.
2. Think of a time when a coworker made a mistake that affected your work. How did you handle the situation?
Not only does this question analyze the candidate's problem-solving abilities, but also their teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills. Look for candidates who demonstrated a noncombative, collaborative approach to solving the problem.
Red flags: the candidate did not take any steps to resolve the situation or engaged with their coworker unconstructively.
3. What is your troubleshooting process?
This question gives the candidate a chance to explain their general approach to troubleshooting. It should highlight how the candidate usually processes and acts on information.
Red flags: the candidate demonstrates limited insight into their troubleshooting process or describes ineffective problem-solving techniques.
4. If you were given two very urgent tasks by different members of the management team at roughly the same time, how would you decide which task to tackle first?
This question tests the candidate's ability to communicate effectively. In this instance, candidates should approach both managers about the other's request. If no clear guidance is given, the candidate should provide a reasonable time estimate of when each task would be completed.
Red flag: the candidate rushes to complete both tasks in the order they were given.
5. How do you decide when a different problem-solving approach is needed?
Not all problems can be solved in the same way. This question reveals whether the candidate can analyze a problem fully before applying an appropriate solution, remain agile during the problem-solving process, and reflect on systems once they have been implemented.
Red flag: the candidate will only try a different approach if the outcome is a failure the first time.
6. Tell me about a time when you predicted a problem related to staffing or structural changes in your department. What did you do to resolve the issue?
This question tests the candidate's ability to identify a concern and bring it to the attention of management before it becomes a problem. Look for candidates who speak up, propose reasonable alternatives, and assist with changes.
Red flags: the candidate has never identified any issues in the workplace, or they didn't want to get involved even though they knew there would be a problem.
7. What do you do when you cannot seem to find an effective solution to a problem?
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. This question reveals how the candidate finds new ideas on how to proceed.
Red flag: the candidate is unable to be resourceful and gives up.
8. What improvements have you made to your workplace in the last year?
Candidates with great problem-solving abilities should be able to identify areas that can be improved, and either take steps to implement those changes or initiate the process.
Red flag: the candidate has not contributed to any improvements in the workplace.
9. Provide an example of a time when you solved a problem without the input of management. What was the result?
This question highlights the candidate's ability to make decisions and solve problems by themselves.
Red flag: the candidate did not inform management about a major decision that could affect the business.
10. How do you organize your daily workload to ensure that all your tasks are complete?
Reveals whether the candidate has an effective system that allows for setbacks and problem-solving in the workplace.
Red flags: the candidate has never thought of implementing a system to plan their work or cater for delays or they are unable to execute such a strategy.
11. How do you motivate yourself to achieve your goals when you have minimal supervision?
Self-motivation is a major part of problem-solving if issues arise. This question simply reveals the candidate's methods for staying motivated.
Red flags: the candidate has never been in a situation where they needed to work without supervision or they cannot think of creative and effective ways to self-motivate.
12. What do you do when asked to resolve an urgent issue without being given all the information?
Thoroughness and forethought are key components of problem-solving, even when under time constraints. Identify whether the candidate tries to solve the problem immediately or asks for more information.
Red flag: the candidate tries to resolve the issue without all the pertinent details and gets stuck.
13. Can you describe a time when you thought outside of the box to solve a problem in either your personal or professional life?
Evaluates whether the candidate can devise innovative ideas to solve problems.
Red flag: the candidate describes a solution that you would not describe as out-of-the-box thinking.
14. Describe a time when you disagreed with a decision by management. What happened?
Reveals whether the candidate can speak up when they see a problem in the workplace.
Red flag: even if management still went ahead with their original decision, candidates should feel comfortable pointing out problems in the workplace. A red flag would be if the candidate noticed an issue but chose to ignore it.
15. Tell me about a time you tried to solve a problem but ended up making it worse. What happened?
This is a great question to learn more about the candidate's personality and problem-solving skills. It tests honesty and whether the candidate was able to incorporate what they learned into future decisions.
Red flags: the candidate claims they have never made a problem worse, or they've never thought about how they could learn from their mistakes.
Additional Resources:
- Common interview questions .
- Situational interview questions .
- Cultural fit interview questions .
- Stress interview questions .
- Emotional intelligence interview questions .
- Illegal interview questions .
- Behavioral interview questions .
- Personality interview questions .
What are problem-solving interview questions?
Problem-solving interview questions are those that test a candidate's ability to identify potential issues, obstacles, or opportunities for improvement, and then implement solutions accordingly.
Why do hiring managers ask problem-solving interview questions?
Problem-solving interview questions help determine how a candidate approaches problems in their professional and personal lives. Problems — however small — are bound to occur in the workplace, and hiring managers want to be sure that candidates are equipped to address them successfully.
What are some examples of problem-solving interview questions?
- What is your troubleshooting process?
- How do you decide when a different problem-solving approach is needed?
- What was your biggest work-related problem, and how did you resolve it?
- What do you do when you cannot seem to find an effective solution to a problem?
- Describe a time when you disagreed with a decision by management. What happened?
What is the best way to answer a problem-solving question in an interview?
Think about what the interviewer is trying to learn and direct your response accordingly. Provide a comprehensive answer and be sure to explain your reasoning.
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50 most common interview questions, how to interview candidates, star method, pre-screening interviews - how-to guide with sample questions, how an open interview works.
Top 20 Problem Solving Skills Interview Questions & Answers
Master your responses to Problem Solving Skills related interview questions with our example questions and answers. Boost your chances of landing the job by learning how to effectively communicate your Problem Solving Skills capabilities.
Problem-solving skills are universal currency across industries and job roles. They’re the backbone of successful projects, the driving force behind effective leadership, and the hallmark of an individual who can navigate complex challenges with poise and acumen. Whether you’re applying for an entry-level position or stepping into a senior role, your ability to identify problems, analyze their components, and devise efficient solutions will be under the microscope in any interview setting.
To help you prepare for questions that probe this critical skill set, we’ve put together a comprehensive look at some of the most common problem-solving related interview inquiries. We’ll also provide strategic approaches to these queries, offering insight on how to structure your responses and share examples that demonstrate your prowess in turning obstacles into opportunities.
Common Problem Solving Skills Interview Questions
1. describe a situation where you had to solve a problem with no obvious solution..
Having strong problem-solving skills is crucial in many job roles, particularly in positions where unexpected challenges are common. This question allows the interviewer to assess if a candidate can think outside the box, remain calm under pressure, and leverage their knowledge and resources to navigate through uncertain scenarios.
When responding, it’s important to outline a specific example that illustrates your thought process and the steps you took to address the problem. Focus on articulating the nature of the problem, the various options you considered, how you weighed the risks and benefits of each, and the outcome of your actions. It’s also beneficial to highlight any unique or innovative approaches you used, how you collaborated with others if applicable, and what you learned from the experience.
Example: “ In a situation where a critical system failed unexpectedly, I was faced with a problem that had no clear solution. The system’s failure was causing significant operational delays, and the usual troubleshooting methods were not yielding any results. I started by breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable components to isolate the failure’s root cause. I considered various unconventional options, such as repurposing similar systems, modifying existing workflows, and even developing a temporary manual process.
After evaluating the risks and benefits of each potential solution, I decided to implement a hybrid approach. This involved a temporary manual workaround to resume operations immediately, alongside a parallel effort to adapt a similar system for a more sustainable short-term fix. This approach minimized downtime and maintained productivity while we worked on a permanent solution. The outcome was successful, as it not only resolved the immediate crisis but also led to the development of a more robust contingency plan for future system failures. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability and the value of a methodical approach to problem-solving under pressure.”
2. How do you approach defining the root cause of a complex issue?
To effectively untangle intricate issues, a methodical approach is key. Your analytical abilities and systematic methodology for identifying, dissecting, and understanding the foundational aspects of a problem are what interviewers are keen to understand.
To respond effectively, outline a step-by-step process that demonstrates your logical and structured approach. You might talk about gathering and analyzing data, using tools such as the “Five Whys” technique to drill down to the underlying cause, or how you consider the broader context to ensure you’re not overlooking external factors. Emphasize your ability to remain objective, avoid assumptions, and how you collaborate with others to gain different perspectives. Highlight past experiences where you successfully identified and addressed the root cause of a complex problem, which led to a sustainable solution.
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3. What strategies do you employ when faced with multiple competing solutions?
A delicate balance of creativity, logic, and the ability to weigh options against potential outcomes is what defines decisive problem-solving. Your approach can reveal your critical thinking skills, adaptability, and prioritization techniques.
When responding, outline a structured method that you use, such as listing pros and cons, assessing risks, or consulting with key team members. It’s important to demonstrate that you can make informed decisions by evaluating the evidence and considering the broader context of the problem. Make sure to provide a real-life example that illustrates your process and the successful outcome that resulted from your chosen strategy. Highlight any tools or techniques you find particularly useful, such as decision matrices or brainstorming sessions, and explain how these help you to systematically address the issue at hand.
Example: “ When faced with multiple competing solutions, I employ a structured approach that begins with defining clear criteria based on the goals and constraints of the situation. These criteria typically include factors such as feasibility, cost, time, resources, and potential impact. I then use a decision matrix to systematically evaluate each option against these criteria, scoring them to quantify their suitability. This method allows for an objective comparison and helps to minimize bias in the decision-making process.
For instance, in a scenario where I had to choose between several technical solutions to optimize a workflow, I developed a matrix that included criteria such as integration complexity, scalability, and user adoption. After scoring each solution, it became evident that one option, despite not being the most advanced, offered the best balance between ease of implementation and potential benefits. The chosen solution was successfully implemented, leading to a 30% increase in workflow efficiency. This experience underscored the importance of a methodical approach to decision-making, ensuring that choices are made based on data-driven analysis rather than intuition alone.”
4. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt your problem-solving approach mid-process?
Demonstrating adaptability in problem-solving shows your ability to navigate the unpredictable and often complex landscape of challenges that arise in any role. This question delves into your flexibility, resilience, and critical thinking skills, as well as your willingness to learn from the process and collaborate with others.
When responding to this question, outline a specific situation where your original approach to a problem didn’t pan out as expected. Explain the thought process behind your initial plan, the moment you realized a change was needed, and how you adjusted your strategy. Emphasize the outcome of your adaptability and what you learned from the experience, ensuring you showcase your ability to remain composed and innovative in the face of obstacles.
Example: “ Certainly. In one instance, I was tackling a complex issue where the initial data analysis suggested a straightforward solution. However, as the implementation progressed, unexpected variables surfaced that rendered our original plan ineffective. Recognizing this, I paused the execution and gathered the team for a brainstorming session to reassess the situation. It became clear that we needed a more robust data set to understand the underlying patterns causing the discrepancy.
We pivoted our approach to include a broader range of data sources and employed advanced analytical techniques, such as predictive modeling, to gain deeper insights. This shift not only resolved the immediate problem but also provided us with a more sophisticated framework for future issues. The key takeaway from this experience was the importance of agility in problem-solving and the value of iterative processes that allow for refinement as new information becomes available. This approach ultimately led to a successful resolution that was both effective and scalable.”
5. Detail a scenario where you utilized data analysis to solve a business problem.
In roles that demand strong problem-solving skills, the ability to use data analysis is crucial. You don’t just make decisions based on gut feelings or assumptions; instead, you seek out data, which can provide objective insights and guide you towards evidence-based solutions.
When responding to this question, outline a specific situation where you identified a problem that could be addressed with data. Walk through the steps you took to gather the appropriate data, how you analyzed it, and what tools or methods you used. Explain the conclusions you drew from the data and how you formulated a plan based on your analysis. Finally, discuss the outcome of implementing your solution, including any measurable results that underscored the success of your data-driven approach. It’s important to be concise, use clear examples, and quantify your impact if possible.
Example: “ In one scenario, I identified a recurring issue with inventory shortages that were impacting customer satisfaction and sales. Recognizing that a data-driven approach could uncover the root cause, I gathered historical sales, inventory levels, and supply chain data. Using statistical analysis and predictive modeling in Python, I identified patterns indicating that demand forecasting was misaligned with actual sales trends.
After refining the forecasting model to incorporate real-time sales data and market trends, I implemented a more dynamic inventory management system. This solution reduced stockouts by 25% within the first quarter, directly boosting customer satisfaction scores by 15% and increasing sales by 10%. The success of this project was a testament to the power of leveraging data analysis to resolve complex business problems efficiently.”
6. In what ways have you leveraged cross-functional team expertise in problem-solving?
Harnessing the expertise of cross-functional teams brings together varied knowledge bases and skills, leading to more innovative and comprehensive solutions. Your understanding of the value of collaborative thinking and your adeptness at harnessing the strengths of different departments are what employers look for.
When responding to this question, highlight a specific instance where you engaged with a cross-functional team to address a complex issue. Explain the role you played in facilitating communication between departments, how you integrated different viewpoints, and the outcome of the collaborative effort. Be sure to emphasize your ability to listen, synthesize information, and navigate through potential conflicts to arrive at a successful resolution.
Example: “ In tackling a particularly complex project challenge, I orchestrated a series of cross-functional workshops that brought together experts from R&D, marketing, finance, and operations. Recognizing that each department had a unique perspective, I facilitated a structured brainstorming session to harness these diverse viewpoints. By employing techniques such as ’round-robin’ and ‘worst possible idea’ to stimulate creative thinking and encourage open communication, the team was able to break down silos and share insights that might not have surfaced in a more conventional meeting setup.
The synthesis of these insights led to a multifaceted solution that balanced technical feasibility with market appeal and financial viability. I played a pivotal role in ensuring that each department’s concerns were addressed and that their expertise was reflected in the final plan. This collaborative approach not only resolved the issue at hand but also set a precedent for cross-departmental cooperation, leading to a 15% reduction in project lead time and a significant improvement in interdepartmental relations.”
7. Share an instance where you resolved a conflict that stemmed from differing problem-solving methodologies.
Navigating through conflicts arising from diverse approaches to problem-solving is a skill that highlights your interpersonal skills, adaptability, and capacity for integrating various strategies to overcome obstacles.
When responding, it is essential to outline a specific situation clearly, emphasizing the differing approaches without placing blame. Describe the steps taken to understand each perspective, find common ground, and explain the process of crafting a solution that incorporated the strengths of each methodology. Conclude with the outcome, focusing on the positive results of the collaboration and what was learned from the experience.
Example: “ In one instance, I was part of a team where conflict arose due to a clash between a traditional, waterfall approach to project management and a more agile, iterative method. One faction was focused on extensive planning and linear execution, while the other advocated for a flexible, adaptive approach that could respond to changing requirements.
To resolve this, I initiated a dialogue to dissect the core objectives of the project, allowing each side to present their rationale. By actively listening and asking probing questions, I facilitated an understanding that both methodologies aimed to enhance efficiency and deliver quality results, albeit through different paths. I then proposed a hybrid strategy that combined thorough upfront planning for known variables with the agility to adapt to unforeseen changes. This compromise leveraged the predictability of the waterfall model and the flexibility of agile practices.
The outcome was a cohesive project plan that satisfied both parties and improved team synergy. The project was completed successfully, meeting its goals on time and within budget. The experience reinforced the value of integrating diverse problem-solving techniques to create innovative solutions and taught us the importance of flexibility and open communication in conflict resolution.”
8. How do you prioritize issues when faced with several problems at once?
Knowing how to triage issues based on urgency and impact is a critical aspect of effective problem-solving. It’s important to distinguish between what needs immediate attention and what can wait, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
When responding, a candidate should demonstrate their analytical skills by outlining a clear and logical process for prioritization. This might include assessing the severity of each issue, considering the implications on stakeholders, evaluating the time-sensitivity, and determining the resources required to address each problem. Citing specific examples where they successfully applied such a strategy will provide concrete evidence of their problem-solving abilities.
Example: “ In prioritizing issues, I employ a systematic approach that begins with assessing the impact and urgency of each problem. I consider the potential consequences of not addressing each issue promptly, and I categorize them based on the severity of their outcomes. This is often in line with the Eisenhower Matrix, where tasks are evaluated in terms of urgency and importance.
Next, I evaluate the dependencies and interconnections between the problems, as solving one might alleviate others or, conversely, ignoring one might exacerbate another. I also take into account the resources at hand, including time, personnel, and financial constraints. This comprehensive assessment allows me to create a strategic plan of action that targets the most critical issues first, ensuring that efforts are efficiently allocated to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities for resolution. A practical application of this was when I successfully navigated a project with simultaneous deadlines, resource shortages, and stakeholder pressures by prioritizing tasks that were critical to the project’s milestones, thereby ensuring the project’s timely and successful completion.”
9. What is your process for testing and validating the effectiveness of a solution?
A systematic approach to problem-solving includes setting benchmarks, gathering data, and analyzing results to confirm a solution’s success or identify areas for improvement. This process is essential for ensuring that solutions work as intended.
When responding, outline a clear, step-by-step process that begins with understanding the problem and setting clear objectives for what a successful solution looks like. Describe how you gather data before and after implementing a solution, and how you analyze this information to evaluate success. Offer a real-world example if possible, explaining how you adjusted your approach based on the results you obtained. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and adaptively, showcasing your commitment to not just solving problems, but solving them effectively and efficiently.
Example: “ My process for testing and validating the effectiveness of a solution starts with a clear definition of the problem and the establishment of measurable objectives. I then develop a hypothesis for a potential solution and design an experiment or pilot to test this hypothesis, ensuring that the experiment is controlled and variables are accounted for. I collect baseline data to understand the current state and compare it with the data post-implementation to assess any changes.
After implementing the solution, I gather quantitative and qualitative data to evaluate its impact. This involves not only looking at the direct outcomes but also considering any unintended consequences or side effects. I use statistical analysis to determine the significance of the results, ensuring that the observed effects are due to the solution and not random variation.
For instance, in a project aimed at reducing customer service call times, I established key performance indicators, such as average handle time and customer satisfaction scores. After implementing a new call-routing system, I analyzed the data and found a reduction in handle time, but customer satisfaction had unexpectedly decreased. This prompted a secondary analysis that revealed the new system was too impersonal. I then iterated on the solution, adding a feature to personalize customer interactions, which ultimately led to improvements in both handle time and customer satisfaction. This example underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and willingness to refine solutions based on data-driven insights.”
10. Have you ever implemented a creative solution that was not initially well-received? How did you handle it?
Stepping outside the box and challenging the status quo can be met with resistance or skepticism. Your capacity to innovate under less than ideal conditions and your resilience, persuasion skills, and ability to navigate opposition are all put to the test.
When responding, articulate the situation that required a creative solution, emphasizing the challenges faced and the innovative thinking applied. Detail the steps taken to communicate the idea, gather feedback, and adapt the solution to address concerns. Highlight your commitment to the idea, your ability to listen and incorporate feedback, and the eventual outcomes, including any lessons learned or successes achieved from the implementation. This demonstrates your approach to innovation, conflict resolution, and your ability to lead through change.
Example: “ Yes, I encountered a situation where my creative solution faced initial resistance. The challenge was to streamline an outdated process that was deeply ingrained in the company’s operations. I proposed an automation strategy that would significantly reduce manual labor and error rates. Despite the clear benefits, the solution was met with skepticism due to the team’s comfort with the status quo and fear of job displacement.
To address the concerns, I initiated a series of discussions to openly communicate the vision and long-term benefits of the automation. I actively listened to the feedback and incorporated suggestions that aligned with the project goals, such as offering training for the affected employees to manage the new system. By demonstrating the value of the solution through a pilot program, showcasing improved efficiency and accuracy, the team gradually accepted the change. The successful implementation not only optimized operations but also fostered a culture more receptive to innovation. This experience reinforced the importance of empathy and engagement when driving change.”
11. Illustrate how you maintain objectivity when solving emotionally-charged problems.
Remaining impartial and avoiding letting personal feelings or biases influence the decision-making process is a sign of strong problem-solving skills. Emotional intelligence is a vital component here, as it allows you to navigate emotionally-charged situations with a clear head.
To respond effectively, showcase a methodical approach to problem-solving that includes gathering information, weighing options, considering the consequences, and consulting with relevant stakeholders if necessary. Provide a specific example where you successfully handled an emotionally-charged problem by focusing on the facts and the bigger picture, demonstrating your emotional intelligence and commitment to fairness. Emphasize your ability to stay calm, your use of strategies to mitigate emotional influences (such as taking a step back or seeking a second opinion), and your commitment to achieving the best outcome for all parties involved.
Example: “ In situations where emotions run high, I prioritize maintaining a clear, analytical mindset. For instance, when faced with a problem that stirred significant emotional response among team members, I initiated a structured problem-solving process. This began with gathering comprehensive data and insights to ensure decisions were grounded in facts rather than feelings. I then methodically evaluated the potential impact of various solutions, considering both short-term and long-term consequences for all stakeholders involved.
To ensure objectivity, I actively sought diverse perspectives, which included consulting with individuals both inside and outside the immediate team to counteract any emotional bias. By creating a decision matrix that quantified the pros and cons of each option, I was able to present a well-reasoned recommendation. This approach not only facilitated a fair resolution but also demonstrated my commitment to impartiality and rational decision-making, even when navigating the complexities of emotionally-charged situations.”
12. Tell us about a time when you had to convince stakeholders to adopt an unconventional problem-solving approach.
Thinking outside the box is often required when conventional methods fail to yield results. This question assesses whether you are not only innovative and confident in your problem-solving skills but also persuasive and adept at managing change.
When responding, it’s crucial to outline a clear scenario where you identified a unique problem that warranted an unorthodox solution. Walk the interviewer through your thought process, emphasizing how you evaluated the risks and benefits of your approach. Describe the steps you took to gain buy-in from stakeholders, such as leveraging data, aligning with overarching goals, or showcasing small wins. Conclude by sharing the impact of your solution, reinforcing how your ability to think creatively and communicate effectively led to a positive change within the organization.
Example: “ In a project where traditional strategies were failing to resolve a persistent quality control issue, I recognized that a radical shift in our approach was necessary. After a thorough analysis, I proposed the integration of a machine learning algorithm to predict and identify defects, which was unconventional within our industry at the time. Understanding the skepticism it might evoke, I conducted a small-scale pilot study, meticulously documenting the algorithm’s predictive accuracy compared to our existing methods.
To convince stakeholders, I presented a comprehensive comparison of the pilot results with our historical data, clearly demonstrating a significant reduction in defect rates and an increase in detection efficiency. I aligned my presentation with the company’s strategic objectives, highlighting potential cost savings, improved customer satisfaction, and a strengthened market position. By focusing on tangible outcomes and strategic alignment, I was able to secure the necessary support to implement the solution organization-wide.
The adoption of this innovative approach not only resolved the quality issue but also positioned us as a forward-thinking leader in our field. The success of this initiative was evident in the enhanced product quality, reduced waste, and positive feedback from clients, which ultimately contributed to an increase in market share. This experience underscored the value of embracing unconventional problem-solving techniques and the importance of effective stakeholder communication in driving organizational innovation.”
13. How do you balance speed and accuracy when resolving urgent issues?
Maintaining a delicate equilibrium between rapid response and meticulous attention to detail is a reflection of effective problem-solving skills. In high-stakes environments, the ability to act swiftly without sacrificing the quality of the work can be crucial.
When responding to this question, candidates should demonstrate their methodical approach to problem-solving. They could share a specific example where they successfully managed a time-sensitive issue, outlining the steps they took to assess the situation, prioritize actions, and ensure the accuracy of their work. It’s also beneficial to mention any tools or techniques employed to streamline the process, such as checklists or collaboration with team members, to maintain both speed and precision.
Example: “ Balancing speed and accuracy is a critical aspect of problem-solving, especially when dealing with urgent issues. My approach is to first quickly assess the scope and impact of the problem to prioritize the necessary actions. I use a triage system to determine which aspects of the issue need immediate attention and which can be addressed after the immediate threat is mitigated. This allows for a rapid response without overlooking critical details that could lead to further complications.
Once priorities are set, I employ a combination of checklists and mental models to ensure accuracy while maintaining momentum. Checklists serve as a fail-safe to prevent oversight, while mental models like the OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) help me to stay focused and adapt to new information as it arises. In situations where collaboration is key, I leverage the expertise of team members, ensuring that we work in parallel to address different facets of the issue efficiently. This systematic yet flexible approach ensures that solutions are both swift and sound.”
14. What measures do you take to ensure long-term success rather than just quick fixes?
A strategic approach to problem-solving that encompasses both immediate and sustainable solutions is highly valued by employers. They look for candidates who demonstrate foresight that prioritizes long-term success and stability over temporary fixes.
When responding to this question, articulate your process for evaluating problems by considering the broader context and potential future implications. Discuss how you balance the need for immediate action with the goal of preventing recurrence. Share specific examples where you’ve successfully implemented a solution that addressed the root cause of a problem, and how you monitored its effectiveness over time. Highlight your commitment to continuous improvement and your understanding that true problem-solving is an ongoing process, not a one-time task.
Example: “ To ensure long-term success, I first conduct a thorough analysis to understand the underlying causes of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms. This involves gathering data, consulting with stakeholders, and examining the issue from multiple angles to identify systemic issues that could lead to recurrence. Once the root cause is identified, I develop a comprehensive solution that not only resolves the immediate problem but also strengthens the system against similar future challenges.
For instance, in a situation where a software application was experiencing repeated downtime, instead of just repeatedly patching it, I led a deep dive into the codebase and infrastructure. This revealed a scalability issue that was not immediately obvious. By redesigning a key component of the system to handle higher loads, we not only fixed the immediate crashes but also improved overall performance and reliability. To ensure the effectiveness of the solution, I implemented a monitoring system that provided real-time feedback and allowed for proactive adjustments, thus demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and long-term resilience.”
15. How has your problem-solving technique evolved over the course of your career?
With experience, exposure to various challenges, and the acquisition of knowledge, problem-solving skills mature. Your adaptability and growth in your approach to tackling issues reveal how you learn from past experiences and refine your methods.
When responding, it’s important to give concrete examples that illustrate a progression in your problem-solving abilities. Start with an early career challenge, describe the approach taken then, and contrast it with a more recent problem and the evolved techniques used to solve it. Highlight any specific lessons learned, mentors who influenced your methods, or training that contributed to your development. This not only shows your problem-solving growth but also demonstrates self-reflection and a commitment to professional development.
Example: “ Early in my career, my problem-solving approach was primarily reactive and often relied on conventional wisdom. For instance, when faced with a challenging project, I would tackle issues as they arose, using established methods without much anticipation of potential complications. This sometimes led to inefficiencies and a piecemeal resolution of problems.
As I gained experience, I began to adopt a more proactive and systematic approach. I learned the importance of defining the problem accurately, gathering data, and analyzing it before jumping to solutions. For example, when a complex issue presented itself recently, I utilized root cause analysis to identify the underlying factors contributing to the problem. This allowed me to develop a comprehensive strategy that addressed the core of the issue rather than just its symptoms. I also started incorporating cross-disciplinary techniques, such as design thinking and agile methodologies, to foster creative solutions and adapt quickly to changing circumstances. This evolution in my problem-solving technique has resulted in more innovative and sustainable outcomes, as well as a significant reduction in the time and resources required to resolve issues.”
16. Describe an occasion where you identified a potential problem before it occurred and preemptively addressed it.
Strategic thinking and foresight are hallmarks of recognizing and mitigating potential problems before they manifest. Your ability to analyze situations, anticipate challenges, and take proactive measures is what this question aims to uncover.
When responding, outline a specific situation where you noticed warning signs or patterns that suggested a future issue. Detail the steps you took to evaluate the risk and the actions you implemented to prevent the problem. Be sure to highlight your thought process, the resources you utilized, and the outcome of your intervention. This will demonstrate not only your problem-solving skills but also your ability to act decisively and effectively under potential pressure.
Example: “ On one occasion, I recognized that a critical project was at risk due to potential supply chain disruptions. By analyzing vendor delivery patterns and global market trends, I identified a pattern of delays that could severely impact our timeline. To mitigate this risk, I proactively engaged with alternative suppliers and renegotiated terms with existing vendors to ensure priority delivery. Additionally, I implemented a real-time tracking system for supply chain management, allowing for immediate response to any logistical hiccups.
This preemptive strategy not only averted a bottleneck in our project but also strengthened our vendor relationships and improved our overall supply chain resilience. The project was completed ahead of schedule with cost savings from the more competitive supplier terms. This experience underscored the importance of vigilance and adaptability in preemptive problem-solving.”
17. When dealing with unknown variables, how do you proceed in formulating a solution?
Across all industries, problem-solving skills demonstrate an individual’s ability to adapt and find solutions in uncertain situations. Your critical thinking and analytical abilities, initiative, resourcefulness, and creativity are all assessed through this question.
When responding to this question, outline a structured approach that begins with identifying what is known and what is not. Discuss how you gather additional information, break down the problem into manageable parts, and prioritize the variables that will have the most significant impact on the solution. Mention any tools or techniques you use, such as root cause analysis or brainstorming sessions, and how you weigh potential outcomes to make informed decisions. It’s also beneficial to provide a specific example of a past situation where you successfully navigated through unknowns to resolve a problem.
Example: “ When confronted with unknown variables, my approach is to first delineate the boundaries of what is known and leverage that as a foundation. I systematically categorize the unknowns based on their potential impact and relevance to the problem at hand, prioritizing them to efficiently direct my research and analysis efforts. I employ tools such as root cause analysis to drill down into the underlying issues and utilize brainstorming sessions with stakeholders to explore diverse perspectives and solutions.
In a past situation, I was faced with a complex problem where the cause was obscured by several interacting unknown variables. By applying a combination of Pareto analysis and iterative hypothesis testing, I was able to isolate the most significant factors. This methodical approach allowed me to not only identify the root cause but also to develop a targeted solution that addressed the core of the problem rather than just its symptoms. The result was a sustainable resolution that prevented recurrence and optimized system performance.”
18. Can you recount a project where iterative problem-solving was crucial to success?
Recognizing when a problem is complex enough to require iterative techniques is a sign of effective problem-solving. This question delves into your endurance, adaptability, and analytical skills, as well as your willingness to engage in continuous improvement.
When responding, candidates should select a project that had multiple layers of complexity, requiring them to apply an iterative approach. It’s important to describe the initial problem, the steps taken to address it, and how feedback or results from each phase guided subsequent actions. Highlighting collaboration with team members and how their input shaped the evolving solution can demonstrate both teamwork and leadership skills. Remember to articulate the lessons learned and how the experience has honed your problem-solving abilities for future challenges.
Example: “ In a project aimed at optimizing a complex supply chain network, iterative problem-solving was essential due to the dynamic nature of logistics and varying market demands. The initial problem was a bottleneck in the distribution process, which led to delays and increased costs. The initial strategy involved analyzing the existing workflow and identifying key areas where efficiency could be improved. However, it quickly became apparent that the solution required a deeper, multi-stage approach.
The first iteration of the solution involved implementing a new inventory tracking system to provide real-time data on stock levels. While this improved visibility, it didn’t fully resolve the bottleneck. Feedback from this phase indicated that transportation scheduling was also a contributing factor. The second iteration focused on developing a more flexible scheduling system that could adapt to changing demands. This significantly reduced the delays, but there was still room for improvement. Further iterations involved cross-functional collaboration to refine the process, incorporating insights from the sales, procurement, and warehouse teams to align all aspects of the supply chain.
Each phase of the solution was informed by the results and feedback of the previous one, leading to a comprehensive and adaptive system that significantly improved overall efficiency. This iterative approach not only resolved the immediate issue but also provided a framework for continuous improvement in the supply chain. The experience underscored the importance of flexibility, cross-functional collaboration, and the willingness to adapt solutions based on iterative feedback, all of which have become integral to my problem-solving toolkit.”
19. What role does customer feedback play in your problem-solving strategy?
Customer feedback is critical in understanding what is working well and what needs improvement from the user’s perspective. How you value direct input from users and integrate that information into a responsive and adaptive problem-solving process is what organizations look for.
To respond effectively, candidates should articulate a structured approach that showcases active listening, critical analysis of feedback, and integration of actionable insights into problem-solving efforts. They should give examples of how they have used customer feedback to identify the root cause of a problem, generate solutions, and measure the effectiveness of those solutions post-implementation. Additionally, candidates can discuss how they maintain a feedback loop with customers to ensure continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
Example: “ Customer feedback is integral to my problem-solving strategy as it provides direct insight into the user experience and highlights areas that may not align with our intended outcomes. By actively listening to feedback, I can identify patterns and specific pain points that customers face. This information is critical for root cause analysis, allowing me to pinpoint the underlying issues rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms.
Incorporating customer feedback, I prioritize issues based on their impact and frequency, developing solutions that are both effective and efficient. Post-implementation, I leverage feedback to assess the success of the solution, ensuring it meets customer expectations and resolves the identified problems. This creates a feedback loop that fosters continuous improvement and demonstrates to customers that their input is valued and drives change, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.”
20. How do you distinguish between symptoms and underlying causes when analyzing a problem?
Differentiating between what is immediately observable and the root issues that trigger these manifestations denotes a person’s analytical prowess and capacity for critical thinking. Your methodology in dissecting issues is tested, ensuring long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.
When responding, it’s essential to articulate a structured approach: start by describing how you gather and analyze information to identify patterns or commonalities that may point to underlying causes. Provide examples from past experiences where you successfully identified the root of a problem, perhaps by using specific tools or frameworks like the “5 Whys” method. Emphasize your attention to detail and your persistence in exploring beyond the obvious, highlighting how your approach led to effective and sustainable solutions.
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Top 17 Problem-Solving Interview Questions for Freshers & Experienced Professionals
Problem-solving skills are essential for success in almost any job position. Employers are in search of individuals who possess the ability to think critically, tackle obstacles and situations systematically, and develop efficient resolutions. In this guide, you will get different problem-solving interview questions and answers and valuable tips to equip you to prepare for your upcoming interview.
Table of Contents
What are Problem-Solving Interview Questions?
Problem-solving interview questions are questions that focus on a candidate’s aptitude for collecting information, evaluating an issue, considering its advantages and disadvantages, and arriving at a sound conclusion. Employers use these questions to understand and analyze one’s critical thinking abilities and ability to make informed decisions.
These questions are designed to assess a candidate’s critical thinking and decision-making skills. You can develop the right attitude and approach to solving a problem by checking out this complete guide on what are problem-solving skills .
Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers
Below are the common problem-solving interview questions you might likely come across as a fresher. You can also check out this interview preparation course to equip yourself with common interview etiquette.
Q1. When faced with a problem, what is your action plan?
Q2. what factors do you implement to weigh the pros and cons of a decision, q3. how do you know when to seek assistance or tackle an issue on your own, q4. describe a situation when you identified an issue early on and resolved it before it got out of hand, q5. describe a situation when you had a task but lacked the abilities needed to finish it, q6. describe a situation where you handled a crisis well, q7. give an example of a challenging circumstance you experienced at work that called for quick thought and decisive action, q8. how would you respond to a disappointed and angry client, q9. what metrics do you usually use to monitor your strategies , q10. how would you assess the impact of potential issues, problem-solving questions with answers for experienced candidates.
Here are some problem-solving questions and answers for experienced individuals.
Q11. How would you approach a new idea that has enormous profit potential but could have legal ramifications for the business?
Q12. give an example of a work or project that looked too big at first. what methods did you employ to guarantee its effective completion and how did you approach it, q13. have you ever solved a problem without managerial input what was the outcome and how did you handle it, q14. how do you respond when your supervisor asks for your opinion or recommendation, q15. how do you assess a solution’s effectiveness, q16. describe how you learn from your experiences. , q17. do you consider yourself a great problem solver, problem-solving interview questions: common mistakes to avoid.
Below are relevant tips to aid you in answering problem-solving interview questions.
- Avoid Giving Easy Responses- Individuals who opt for easier responses are considered to lack critical thinking.
- Avoid Giving Hasty Responses- Take your time in addressing the issue at hand and make sure you have a thorough understanding of it. If there are any unclear points, ask for clarification before giving your response. This shows that you value accuracy and precision.
- Avoid Taking Too Much on One Question- It is important to be brief and thorough when responding within a reasonable timeframe.
When answering an analytical question during an interview, endeavor to demonstrate the right mindset for solving problems. Problem-solving interview questions are an opportunity for you to showcase your analytical skills, creativity, and ability to handle challenges. You can make the right impression by preparing thoroughly, practicing different types of questions, and emphasizing your problem-solving ability.
Drop us a comment below if this blog has been helpful to you. Also, check out how to ace interviews with proven tips .
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Sandipta Banerjee has completed her Master's in English Literature and Language. She has been working in the field of editing and writing for the past five years. She started her writing journey at a very young age with her poems which have now evolved into a poetry blog. She was working as Editorial Head in a US-based publishing house before joining Internshala.
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MockQuestions
Problem Solving Mock Interview
To help you prepare for your job interview, here are 25 interview questions that will test your problem solving ability.
Get More Information About Our Problem Solving Interview Questions
Question 1 of 25
Tell me about the most challenging problem you have encountered in your professional career.
How to Answer
Answer example.
Everyone has had their share of challenges in their career. The interviewer knows that you are not perfect; however, they need to know that you can professionally overcome work-related roadblocks. Maybe you had a significant project that almost went sideways. Perhaps you had a conflict in the workplace that you could have handled more professionally. Explain your approach to resolving the issue and be sure to highlight the steps you took to reach that resolution.
"The most challenging problem I have encountered in my professional career was with my most recent employer. I had an incredibly important project that made up the majority of my annual budget. The client was challenging to work with as he was rarely available for comment, due to extensive international travel. I needed this deal to work out so, for the 6-month span of the project, I made my work hours reflect his time zone. This shift allowed us to communicate via Skype on a daily basis which meant a fair share of late night and early morning calls for me! It was a sacrifice, and I would do it again. I understand that sacrifices need to happen to gain successful outcomes."
"The most challenging problem that I encountered in my career was when my former company experienced a major merger. It was a lot to adjust to but, after some time, I was able to get a good pace again."
"The most significant challenge I have faced as a manager would be the labor dispute and lockout that our company went through in 2016. Many of our permanent employees are union based. We could not come to a new collective agreement, and so I ended up having to utilize a lot of temporary staffing options during that time. It was a lot of re-training, and strain on the company culture overall."
"The biggest challenge that I face as a marketer, and it's an ongoing challenge, is to manage my expectations on projects. I lean on the side of perfectionism and often put more pressure on myself than even a client would. The positive side of this; however, is that I always deliver an immaculate product."
"I'd say the most challenging problem I have encountered was when my manager suddenly resigned. I was then in charge of the department. Now, I was mostly ready for the responsibility, as the assistant manager in the department. However, I had never completed inventory reconciliation, and on the first day, this was my first task. I was asked to give projections so that our buyer could stock us for next season. I had no idea what to do, so I researched until I came up with the answer. Also, other managers in other departments helped to guide me. Ultimately the work paid off because our next season projections were perfect. Since then, I've learned more effective ways to do our inventory management and projections, but I don't think I've ever learned anything as quickly as I did that week."
"The most challenging problem I've encountered is the misstep of taking my current role. The initial pitch to me on company growth and my duties is not my reality. This factor has been a challenge to my career growth. I know that even if it was a misstep, there are lessons to be learned, and I approach each day with interest and a positive attitude to try to learn those lessons and grow professionally."
"The most significant challenge I've faced is nearly having my department eliminated due to budgetary cuts. I was lucky to have an active parent community rally behind me and the department which saved the program, in the end. The other challenge that comes to mind was getting back into the swing of teaching after taking a few years off to be home with my children. There was a learning curve on getting up to speed with curriculum and the lesson planning, but my love for teaching made it all that much easier!"
Next Question
25 Problem Solving Interview Questions & Answers
1. tell me about the most challenging problem you have encountered in your professional career., 2. in your opinion, what makes you a great problem solver.
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions. Strong problem solvers are: - Systematic thinkers - Open minded - Okay with being wrong sometimes - Always researching and exploring - Able to identify the core problem - Able to reverse engineer a challenge to avoid future issues - Able to come up with multiple avenues that work well for all stakeholders - Are do-ers and not worriers
"I am a great problem solver because I can compartmentalize all aspects of a problem before studying it. I also like to bring more experienced team members in to add to the solution. I will never try to be a hero and solve a complicated problem without tapping into the resources around me."
"What makes me a great problem solver is that I have a keen ability to research, read, and explore so that my recommendations are based on fact and study rather than guesses."
"I have been told that I am an excellent problem solver and I believe this is because I have a bit of an engineering mind. I can take the issue, work backward to solve it, and then use that resolution as a basis for avoiding future issues to come up. I am also a big-picture thinker which allows me to come up with various resolutions per problem."
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creativity. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
"I am a great problem solver because I draw from the experience of others, whether solicited advice or through my prior observations and then I improve upon that, where possible. My memory and years in the industry have exposed me to many types of situations and problems, so I feel I have a vast amount of experience to draw from, allowing me to be creative and effective in the way I approach any challenge. Not to mention, I'm not afraid to ask for help or advice along the way. I know that I don't know everything, so I like to ask for input when I feel I am not fully equipped to do the job alone. There is no shame in that."
"I believe I am a great problem solver because I am sure to gather as many facts as possible, I look at the problem and its potential solutions from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a creative decision, that might seem off the beaten path."
"I consider myself a great problem solver and believe my skills are in my emotional intelligence. I can be really in tune with the tone of the group, who is feeling what, and how they are each best reached. This skill applies to both adults and children, so it is beneficial both inside of the classroom and out! By being aware of what is at the heart of the matter and how each person needs his or her needs met, I'm able to accomplish a lot while avoiding many common landmines."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Cindy's Feedback
3. Tell me about a time when you discovered a problem and went beyond regular expectations to fix it.
Your innovative approach may be exciting and unconventional, but can you implement it realistically? Ideas are one thing, but putting them into practice and providing measurable results is where you can add genuine value. Think of a time you worked long hours and made sacrifices to overcome a challenging problem. Demonstrate your impact and the significance of your solution.
"During our busy tax season I noticed that one of our primary spreadsheets was not formulated properly. I am not an expert with Excel; however, with everyone being in peak stress mode - I decided it was something I could learn on my own. I watched a few online tutorials and ended up resolving the issue without the need to involve the rest of the team."
"When I worked as an admin assistant at my last job, I was in charge of purchasing office and kitchen supplies. I noticed we had been spending quite a bit of money on paper and plastic-ware. I compared the cost of disposables to the cost of buying permanent dishes and utensils for the kitchen. It turned out we were able to save the company hundreds of dollars each year by simply investing in dishes and silverware!"
"I had a staff member who was stealing supplies. Rumors were going around that she was dishonest; however, there was no evidence. I carefully waited and, after two days, the rumored infractions were caught on camera. At that point, I was able to terminate her employment. I went beyond regular expectations by gaining evidence before terminating her. I knew this would prevent a human resources issue down the road, and it also saved my company from having to pay this employee any severance pay."
"Our agency performed a major client launch last month that tested well. Upon implementing, I noticed that their new website was not functioning correctly. I wanted our client to be happy with our services, so I worked late into the night with our IT team to troubleshoot the site and ensure that by morning, there were no more kinks to work out. In the end, our client was thrilled with my dedication, and they ended up writing an amazing review online and even mentioned me in the review!"
"I managed a coat department previously and, depending on the season; these coats were very high ticket items. I had two salespeople who were consistently battling for the sale. It was unbecoming, to say the least, and impacted the department's morale. To incentivize everyone to go for the sale, I made a sales contest on non-coat merchandise. The more items they upsold, despite being a smaller sale, the more tickets they received towards various other compensation incentives like gift cards or extra time for breaks. The other sales reps felt reinvigorated, and it pushed my two coat-fighters to step outside of their perceived territory."
"In my first role, there was a regular lane of shipments that was difficult to cover. The issue didn't cause us to fall short as far as the customer was concerned. However, we were in danger of potentially having the customer poached due to waiting times. After several late nights attempting to come through for a key customer, I got tired of running in a hamster wheel. I decided to find some carriers that could assist. Long story short, after staying late many days and making some creative calls to find a backhaul, I was able to secure a new carrier, at a great rate, and keep the customer happy."
"When I was reworking lesson plans, I noticed that there was a gap between the programs and some policy. So, rather than hand them back to the team to fix, I took it upon myself to write the remaining lessons and tweak the existing ones to make them cohesive. It took about seven days of working on my own time, but it was worth it when I saw the lessons in action during the school year."
4. Tell me about a time where you had to analyze a set of data and then make a recommendation.
Talk about your attention to detail and sharp focus when it comes to data and statistics. You may not consider yourself a highly analytical person. However, this is a skill that you have indeed exercised in the past.
"I worked for a financial firm last year and had a client who was looking for investment recommendations. I gathered data on the stocks they were interested in, sorting through 12-month trends and further historical data to determine the most promising returns. The client was happy with my findings, and my manager was quite impressed with the research that I conducted."
"My boss recently asked me to make a case for Oracle on Demand versus SAP Business ByDesign. Our business was growing so fast, and we needed a new CRM fast. I called both companies who took me through a webinar and a couple of online tutorials. I then gathered the data and made an informative PowerPoint presentation. My boss was very impressed with how thorough I was, and I was happy to learn something new!"
"Each time I onboard a new client, I analyze a set of data before I make any recommendations on their strategy. This data includes their current analytics, primary sales sources, key customers, and more. I have a formula that I follow for the most part to help me assess and then give the best strategic recommendations that I can."
"My current employer wanted to know the exact impact our social media campaigns were making. I gathered our Facebook analytics for him and created a short PowerPoint presentation from the data. My recommendation was to increase our keywords in the geographical areas where our ads received the highest click-through rates. My research and recommendations certainly helped as our Facebook reach grew exponentially."
"As department manager, I'm responsible for forecasting what our sales will be for the upcoming season so that our buyer can accurately purchase the proper inventory. I have to look at our current inventory, last year's trends, YOY growth, and what the industry is doing as a whole, especially with the impact of online retailers. I then make a recommendation and forecast that will either set us up for success or not. If I under or over forecast, we end up with not enough inventory or too much to sell through and the cost is either opportunity in missed sales, or having to discount unnecessary items. To date, I've been nearly exact in my predictions."
"When doing annual reviews with my clients, I would analyze the past year's shipments, trends, and overall data. I would then make recommendations for improved efficiencies, rates, and better service contracts in the upcoming year. I would make not only carrier recommendations based on service level and pricing, but also made suggestions on new routes or ways in which we could be creative, like consolidating the shipments in our warehouses, to save cost when possible. I managed two of the most significant accounts in the office, so my recommendations were fundamental to our bottom line, and I'm happy to report that they were consistently adopted, resulting in more business."
"I am responsible for analyzing the results of our unit tests given across the department quarterly. I had not only to compile the results and make recommendations as to what units to keep and what to remove for the following year but also diagnose what ineffective and how we could remedy that. This task is a critical one as it shapes the future of the department and our efficacy as teachers."
Stephanie's Feedback
5. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
When it comes to complex problem solving, decisions are not always readily reached. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results. Walk the interviewer through your process when it comes to making quick decisions. Do you rely on past experiences? Perhaps you go with a gut feeling. Maybe you have read case studies that you lean on in these instances. Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and are only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on. Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
"Our Controller recently came down with pneumonia on a week where we had a major client presentation to give. He sent me what he had prepared, and I had to fill in the blanks. As an Analyst it was a bit out of my wheelhouse, being in a client facing role, but I adapted quickly, and reminded myself that my team needed me."
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader which means that my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast-thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a significant day for us. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in just one hour."
"In logistics, there are often split-second decisions that can either get the freight to a customer on time or cause a shut-down of a production line. Sometimes, these decisions have to be made after hours. On more than one occasion, I've received a phone call from our central dispatch asking me how to handle a late driver. I have to remember the details of the particular shipper or receiver, my customer, and the actual load in question but also get creative with how they can make sure to meet customer expectations. Due to the urgent nature of the business, as well as the drivers, it has to be a very quick decision to be successfully resolved. Luckily, due to following my gut, I've been able to make very fast, split-second decisions in the best interest of the branch and customer."
"As a Marketing Director, I need to make a multitude of decisions, on the fly, for varying projects. I rely partially on the instinct that I have built as an expert in the marketing industry and part in past experiences that may be similar. I am sure always to exude an air of control when making decisions."
"I thrive under pressure and always have, so when I'm given a time-sensitive situation to address, I light up and get down to business. I am more impactful and even more creative when I have little time to do much besides jump in and take charge. This ability to make fast decisions is especially helpful in my role as manager when there is an inventory, personnel, or customer issue."
"Just like with negotiations, I react swiftly in emergency situations. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required, I will do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors considering the potential financial loss."
"I am certainly a take charge and tackle a project kind of gal - as a teacher and a mom, too! I feel I have a powerful and accurate intuitive sense and I follow it instinctively. It's very rarely steered me wrong."
6. When it comes to problem solving, are you a strong collaborator?
Show off your teamwork skills by giving an example of when you successfully collaborated with your coworkers. Be sure to demonstrate how you communicated your thoughts or opinions. Highlight how your contributions, or ability to ask for help, made a difference. Explain how you are a team player who enjoys working alongside others.
"Last month, I recruited a couple of coworkers to help me solve a problem for a client. We were looking at their financials, but something didn't add up, and I didn't have the analysis background that these two co-workers had. Together we molded our areas of expertise and created a bulletproof financial plan for our client. I enjoyed the collaboration and would do it again in a heartbeat."
"I am most certainly a strong collaborator! Being an executive assistant, I am often in need of strong collaboration to complete a project for the VP who I support. I love learning new things from my coworkers and those who I report to."
"I love having impromptu brainstorm sessions with my team. It keeps everyone on their toes! When an issue comes to light, I will approach the problem with the entire team and open the floor, at the end of the meeting, for suggestions."
"In marketing, it is imperative to collaborate and gain different sides of the story, and new opinions. I try to seek out my team's opinions on projects all the time. I find everyone has something to contribute and can help me see a problem or strategy in a way that I may not have ever considered."
"I would consider myself an active collaborator and believe that two heads are almost always better than one. Three is the best, in my opinion. This way the team is odd-numbered, so if there's a dispute you can take a vote on it! Multiple viewpoints are almost always a great idea."
"I am a strong collaborator. I am always willing to listen to others' opinions, hear their perspective, and work together to build a solution that will fit for everyone. I am always looking to draw from others' experience and expertise to bring about the best solution for the client and the branch as a whole. When drafting a pitch for a client, I am always sure to bring on a manager or carrier sales rep so that I will have multiple perspectives to help bring us to the best collaborative solution."
"I believe I'm a skilled collaborator and am confident that my coworkers would agree. I come to our bi-weekly department meetings full of ideas and with an open spirit, ready to collaborate with the rest of the team. We always have engaging discussions that result in great takeaways for the teachers as well as our students."
7. When you cannot seem to find the right solution to a problem, how do you deal?
Sometimes, problems just seem too impossible to solve, at first glance. Your creative problem-solving skills may be at a stand-still from time to time, and the interviewer wants to know how you deal with that. Taking a brief break and stepping away from the problem can help you to see things from a different perspective. When you are in a rut, you can waste time plugging away at something, resulting in a decline in productivity. Discuss with the interviewer how you handle being in a rut like this.
"If I am stuck on a particular problem, I will take a break from trying to figure out what's wrong and ask a coworker for advice. Getting another person's perspective when you start to feel like you're hitting a wall can help one to see a problem with a fresh set of eyes. As humans, sometimes we overthink! The biggest hurdle can be asking for help, and I am not above asking for help when I'm stuck."
"If time allows - I will sleep on it! When faced with tough decisions where an answer does not come to me easily, I will take a moment to feel the issue out. When necessary I will also bring in the opinion of the administrators in a different department."
"If I cannot come to a solution that feels right I will check in with other leaders whom I work with and, depending on the situation, my business mentor. It's important to check in with those that I admire as they have unique ideas and some have more industry tenure as well."
"As a marketer, I am hired to find the solution for others. As you can imagine, when that solution seems elusive, it is incredibly challenging for me to accept. For this reason, I love brainstorm sessions with my team. I will also look to the outside in the form of resources online such as blogs and forums by other marketing professionals."
"It can be frustrating when a solution does not come fluidly. However, sometimes trying a solution and seeing it fail, will lead you to a lightbulb moment. I am an active person, so I like to walk and talk things out. Usually, as I do that, I don't filter my ideas. This way, something slips out that I would have edited out as "ridiculous" if I were writing down a list. I have found that this free-flowing problem-solving session often leads to the most creative and impactful solutions which I would have nixed from the get-go had another not failed."
"If I'm stuck on a problem, I try to take some time away from the issue, ideally by taking a step away from the screen and get my blood flowing. Walking away seems to help me get reinvigorated and more creative. I also find it valuable to talk it out with someone, even if that person is not a stakeholder in the situation."
"If I am stuck in a rut or can't seem to figure out the best approach, I am fortunate enough that I have so many other tasks and classes that I can focus on. Usually, if I clear my mind and fill it with something else, a great idea hits me when I least expect it. If I am stuck on a problem and cannot take the time to step away, I usually rely on my students to help me shake it off!"
8. When faced with a problem, how do you decide on the best solution?
There may be more than one solution to a problem, and the interviewer would like to know how you make a final choice when you're in a situation like that. Effectively comparing and contrasting, or weighing the pros and cons, is essential when choosing the best way to solve a problem. The interviewer wants to see that you are capable when it comes to calculating risk vs. reward. Think about a time when you have compared the risk and reward to a potential solution.
"If I have a problem with multiple solutions, I always go back to the classic pros vs. cons method. I fully understand that although no solution is perfect, and some solutions offer lesser sacrifice while others pose potential loss. I have been trained to take the solution that is 'closest to the money' which means that if I am stuck between a rock and a hard place, I will choose the solution that is most beneficial to the company's bottom line."
"When it comes to problem-solving, I will always weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. I will also bounce my thoughts off of some co-workers if I still feel conflicted after that."
"My decisions are always based on three factors. One, what is best for the company. Two, what is best for our clients. Three, what will boost employee morale. Now, not all decisions will be popular with all three groups, and I do keep that in mind. In those instances, it is my job to watch our bottom line but ensure customer satisfaction at all times."
"Rock, paper, scissors! Kidding - of course! Our team will collaborate on tough decisions, and we often vote. Majority wins in our office for many creative decisions."
"When I face a problem, I am sure to draw on previous experiences both as a customer and an employee in retail. I then use these experiences to make the most informed decision that I can about the problem at hand. Generally speaking, if I've already seen or experienced a very comparable situation, I can be impactful and exact in my approach by drawing from those experiences."
"As I consider a problem and its solutions, I make a note of what my gut tells me what to do. Then I take a step back and reflect on times that I have faced the situation before. I recall the actions that I took, the outcome, and then pivot as necessary. I trust my instinct because I am heavily knowledgeable in this industry, but I believe in relying on fact as well."
"I am typically a follow-my-gut type of person, so I follow my instinct when possible. I make a note of what my initial inclination was and then I make sure to compare and contrast solutions. Once I have identified the best solution, I check in to see if it feels right. More often than not, my initial instinct is correct. Of course, I am sure to be analytical as I weigh out each decision."
9. How do you prioritize multiple projects when they all seem equally important?
Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice. There are many approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions: 1) Make a list. By thinking through and writing down each item that needs completion, you can see it on paper. 2) Mark what is urgent or essential. Take into account deadlines and meetings. 3) Order each task based on effort and estimated value. 4) Consider due dates and how long it will take to do each item. When answering this question, show the interviewer that you have a system in place that helps you to think through what needs to happen, and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you an asset to their company!
"I aim to be as effective and efficient as possible and make sure I can use all minutes of a day for a project. I have a few things going at once most of the time. I am the lead on some, the delegator on others, and the reviewer on another, for instance. This way, by splitting up the work to the appropriate parties, both my team and I can be the most efficient with our time."
"I often have multiple projects due at a time, since I am the assistant to three different executives. I ask my executives to rank their need from 1-5 in the level of urgency, including its due date. I start my work on that list. If there is more than one urgent need, I will work overtime, or through my lunch, to ensure that I deliver everything on time."
"I had to utilize creative problem solving last month when we found ourselves short-staffed and unable to hire new employees due to budget cuts. I changed our schedule to include some split shifts and received approval for a small amount of overtime spending. The problem is solved, at least temporarily, until our company comes out of our spending freeze."
"In my current department, we are very systematic in our customer delivery promises; however, that is not to say that doubling up on client deliveries does not happen. When situations occur where I have to prioritize, I will do so by the size of the client and budget. It may seem unfair at times; however, our largest clients with the most significant spend always rule out."
"I prioritize based on urgency and time required for the project. I have a list of what needs to be done, by when, and how long I estimate that it will take to accomplish. I am great under pressure, but try to make sure that I don't get myself or my team into a sticky situation by not allotting enough time for any particular project."
"I love to keep running lists of everything that I need to do, big or small. Mostly because I love crossing things off of the to-do list, but also because it helps me keep track of everything. Lately, I've started utilizing a free project management software that I use to make those lists, categorize the tasks, and mark them by the level of urgency. I take care of the most time-sensitive issues first and then move along to the equally important, but perhaps less time-sensitive to-dos. I also estimate how long each task will take, so if I have a few minutes in between projects, I can tackle the quick to dos and use that time effectively, rather than use it to figure out 'what's next.'"
"I follow the tried and true practice of making lists and assigning each item a priority and tackling the list that way. I love to check things off my list, as it gives me a feeling of accomplishment. Also, I am a believer in following my intuition. If I feel that something lower on the to-do list needs to be bumped up in priority, I will tackle that right away. As a teacher, there are always a lot of simultaneous to do items, so in addition to prioritizing, I have to be good at multitasking; something I find I do quite well as both a teacher and a mom."
Marcie's Feedback
10. Tell me about a recurring problem that you run into in your current position, and how you handle it.
The interviewer wants to see that, despite this recurring problem, you take action to find a resolution. They want to make sure they aren't hiring a chronic complainer who is easily defeated! Be careful to avoid complaining about your current (or most recent) position. A recurring problem could be a glitchy software system, an employee who is regularly late, or even an unpredictable work schedule. Remain optimistic in your reply!
"A recurring problem that I have in my current position is the fact that our client management software is not user-friendly. Any entry that I need to make is incredibly time-consuming which poses a real problem when a deadline is present, or when we have clients waiting for an answer. I have found that the best workaround for this is not to allow my paperwork to build up. The more proactive I am, the better I can keep ahead of schedule."
"A problem that I am currently running into is a lack of office supplies. My boss has been running very lean, financially speaking, since our industry took a downturn. I have to time my ordering with client invoices at this point. This situation has certainly helped me to become more aware of spending and budgets, that's for sure!"
"The greatest issue in my current position is that we have so much employee turnover. It started to feel like I was constantly training new staff. I came up with an employee referral bonus program which greatly helped. For every successful referral, our employees get $400 plus another $400 after their referral stays for three months. I believe this has been successful because the quality of our employees has greatly increased."
"In my current office, we have more clients than we can handle - which is a great thing! However, it's been tough to find the best marketers to join our team because we are a small organization. This hiring situation has meant a lot of overtime hours, which I am certainly happy to do for the most part. I do look forward to working with a bigger team, like yours."
"Unfortunately, a recurring issue in my current company is employee tenure. It's just really part of the industry as we need some holiday and seasonal associates and they typically don't want to stay on, or we don't have the budget to keep them on. This turnover means we are continually becoming a new team and learning how to work with our new coworkers. Scheduling often has a learning curve with a new team, too, because you have to take into account the availability of all parties, and who works well together. That said, it's something I'm used to. I make it a bit of a personal challenge or game for myself. How quickly I can learn their available days, how fast I can learn who works best together."
"A recurring issue at my current job is lack of reliable inventory that my clients are requesting, which can be incredibly frustrating. I am working hard to land a client, get them to buy into our program, both literally and figuratively, and then we fall short of expectations when our inventory doesn't meet their standards. That said, I continue to go out, land new clients, and try to source the proper inventory for them."
"A recurring issue revolves around my lack of a classroom and the friction that can arise at times because of it. Without the flexibility of my own classroom, I sometimes find myself in an awkward situation since I have to abide by the other teacher's rules, which sometimes conflict with mine. I do my best to follow the teachers' class rules, and make sure that we have a good understanding."
11. Tell me about a time when you failed to solve a problem. How did you overcome the failure?
'Success is bouncing from failure to failure without losing momentum,' or so they say. Your resilience shines through when you can learn from your mistakes and keep going. Give an example that shows you can accept fault and learn from challenging experiences.
"I failed to meet an important deadline in my first job out of college because I didn't know how to prioritize properly. I kept letting other menial tasks get in the way rather than focusing on finishing the project. I learned how to manage my time wisely by setting reasonable goals and reminders on my calendar. This technique helped me to manage my time more effectively."
"Last month we were having issues with our GoToMeeting application, and it was right before a major client meeting. I was on a call with the service provider, trying to troubleshoot and unfortunately, did not deliver a fix on time. After the initial frustration, I decided to talk to my boss about having backups in place. Now, we have Skype, and Google Hangouts set up for these emergency situations."
"I was asked to solve our issue of employee turnover which ended up being much more difficult than I originally thought. My initial goal was to improve turnover by 70% but in the end, only reached 40% improvement. Although I did not reach my goal, I am still happy that my action plan made a difference."
"I had a customer who was not happy with my delivery, and I chose to take care of the situation without involving my boss. It wasn't that I was trying to sweep the situation under the rug, I just honestly thought I had been successfully dealing with the situation on my own. Unfortunately, I was wrong because the client sent a nasty email to my boss a short time after. I should have gone to my boss right away and filled him in. It's something that I've learned from, and I'm ready to involve my boss with every sticky client situation."
"In a previous role as a personal shopping assistant, I was tasked with taking on a notoriously difficult client. She spent a lot of money in the store in the past but was very demanding. This challenge seemed like the perfect opportunity to prove myself. A few months in, I made the misstep of mentioning something she'd complained about at an earlier date. Apparently, she was offended that I brought it up, even though I meant it very innocently. I owned up to it immediately to my manager and came up with a plan to win her back. I wrote a snail-mail card apologizing to her and let several weeks pass before reaching out in any other way. By the time I did, two months later, she was perfectly lovely, dismissed my apology as though she didn't know what I was talking about, and we moved along in a better fashion than we had prior."
"In my first role out of college, I was working to solve a lane issue with a carrier that kept falling through. I went through every solution I could come up with including pitching consistency, to leveraging my current relationships, and asking for favors. Those favors and workarounds ran out, and we fell short of client expectations. While I did all that I knew how at the time, I still fell short, and it was disappointing. In retrospect, I would have involved more people in supervisory positions earlier on in the process to learn from their shared experiences."
"The problem I've failed to solve that still keeps me up at night is a successful inclusion of one of my students with an IEP. He loves Spanish and in a one-on-one setting excels at it, but cannot handle the behavior expectations in class because he gets too excited. I've tried multiple approaches to get him to regulate, and participate, but so far nothing has allowed him to participate in the class without disrupting the other students and causing a meltdown for himself. This fact weighs on me since I want him to experience inclusion at all times. As a result, he comes to my office a few days each week, and we have our Spanish class together. I feel this exemplifies who I am as a teacher. I will go the extra mile for my students to make sure they get their fair shake at life."
12. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?
The interviewer wants to know that you can think outside the box, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem. Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues or even patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
"When I am faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
"I have a variety of manuals and online tutorials that I lean to when I need to solve a complicated problem. Usually, the issues are surrounding Excel troubleshooting, so it is easy to find answers without involving anyone else and interrupting their day."
"I have a business mentor that I turn to for significant problems. She and I are in the same industry; however, she is much more tenured than I am. I recommend that everyone have a mentor. Even though I run a team of my own now, there are times when I do not have the answers."
"When I need to solve a complicated problem I will turn to marketing forums and blogs that I follow. There is a plethora of information on the internet, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of them!"
"To solve a complex issue, I will reach out to a manager or mentor from a previous role to ask them how they've handled such issues in the past. I am always ready to dive back into our handbook, but these types of scenarios are often not covered there, which is why I value a human, experiential approach. I know that there are so many folks in the industry who have so much to teach me and have probably already "been-there-done-that," so I love to utilize them as a resource."
"If there's a complicated problem, I'll write out what I think the possible solutions would be. Then, I will weigh those potential solutions against one another and list the complications that may arise as a result of each choice. Also, I am always open to input or suggestions from those with more experience than I. I will often turn to my organizations' training resources, as well as talk the problem out with coworkers or my boss."
"I have a vast cohort of teachers with whom I work currently, or have worked in the past, so if I am stuck on a problem or feel I need some additional help, I reach out to these educators. If nothing else, they're there to lend an ear and let me bounce my ideas off of them. They almost always have some real-life experience in a very similar situation. I value this collaborative, supportive group that I've amassed over the years."
13. After you implement a solution to a problem, how do you test the effectiveness of that solution?
The interviewer wants to see that you have strong follow-through skills and the ability to use data and analytics to support your decisions. The only way to test the effectiveness of a new solution is to keep a close eye on the immediate, and often longer-term, results! Depending on the situation, you can use data, run reports, and compare/contrast your findings. If you have records of the data before your problem-solving solution, you can track the results of your new solution and analyze in a month, or beyond. It can take time to see the results, so having a method for measuring them is essential. Give an example of a time you implemented a solution and found a way to measure the results to check its efficacy.
"Last year, our company was having a very high rate of turnover due to employee burnout during overtime hours worked. I implemented a third shift which alleviated the need for excessive overtime. Yes, it did increase our payroll costs by 33%; however, it decreased our turnover which was costing us more and more every year. From the analytics I have been watching, the change will pay for itself by the end of year two."
"One solution that I recently implemented was the use of Google calendar with the executive that I support. She was rarely updating her Outlook calendar because she found it to be too difficult to do on her smartphone. Since this implementation, we have minimized our crossed wires significantly! I have measured the effectiveness of this new calendar strategy by marking down any appointments that need to be rescheduled. So far, for the month, the number of reschedules is down by 80%."
"I always look at the data to gauge the efficacy of policy or new solution. I am big on numbers as they do tell the full, and true, story. I love the reliability of spreadsheets and numbers!"
"Once our team comes up with a new marketing strategy for a client we will conduct two focus groups. One test group will be on the original marketing plan and the second, on the plan that we want to pitch. The use of focus groups is the best way for us to measure if our new strategy will be effective enough to justify the changes for the client."
"I like to collect data, as well as anecdotal assessments of new policies. It's great to have data to confirm if it was or was not effective, but I am a firm believer, too, in getting the team on board. Plus, as you implement a solution, sometimes those doing the actual day-to-day work with customers or in the actual implementation have a more accurate understanding of what's going on or what could be improved. Therefore, I am sure to ask the staff how they think it's going, if it's impactful, or what they still see as an area for growth."
"To test the effectiveness of any solution, you have to be objective and see if it genuinely addressed the problem it set out to solve. Everything in our business runs on KPIs, so when we introduce any initiative, we can see how it is or is not impacting those measurements. One example of this was when I assigned specific accounts to my team of buyers, instead of just attaching as they came up. The idea was to get a buyer to become an expert on that account, their buying habits, and therefore be more effective in the long term at sourcing for their needs. At first, it didn't seem all that impactful, as the close rate was still around 42% overall. However, over the course of 10 weeks, we saw an uptick in close ratios on the assigned, dedicated accounts versus the randomly distributed ones, resulting in 53% close ratio. It's something that became so effective that other sales pods adopted it as their practice as well."
"For me, numbers play an important part in teaching but do not paint the full picture. So, after implementing a change, it is certainly important for me to collect data from our unit tests to gauge the efficacy of the lessons we're teaching and the lesson plans we are using. However, I also am sure to check-in with the students on a more regular basis to check for comprehension. Testing is only truly reflective of the way some students learn, whereas others are terrible test takers, even though they've learned the material. That is why I like to take a two-pronged approach."
14. When a major problem arises, what is your first reaction?
The interviewer wants to know if your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. How you react will significantly determine how you fit with their existing team. Perhaps your computer crashes, and you realize you may have just lost all of your hard work. Or maybe you are limited on time and have a deadline rapidly approaching. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you take a very methodical approach to problem-solving, rather than reacting impulsively when a problem occurs.
"When a major problem arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened. I then go into 'brainstorm' mode, jotting down potential ways to resolve the issue. From there, I can use a pros and cons list to determine the best course of action for a fast and amicable resolution."
"I have taught myself to become much calmer with my first reactions when problems arise. Now, I will step back and review my options for solving the problem rather than allow myself to become frustrated. If I feel that I cannot solve the issue on my own, I will ask for help from my superiors."
"Depending on the situation, I will gather my resources and team and collaborate on making the necessary happen on a shortened timeline so that we can deliver our results in the most efficient manner possible. Usually, we learn something about ourselves, the team, or a more effective approach to the next problem in the process."
"When a major problem arises, my first instinct is to jump in and fix the issue. I am a do-er and also think in a reverse-engineering manner. I start with the desired result, and work my way backward from there, figuring out where the snag occurred."
"I am resistant to stress but cannot completely avoid it. When a major issue arises, I will take a quick walk, if possible, so I can best assess how to address the issue while clearing my head. Then, I get to work. I delegate whenever possible so that I can oversee the effectiveness, but am not at all afraid to jump in and do the dirty work myself."
"In the event of a significant problem or setback, my first reaction is to freeze in disbelief for a moment or two while I gather myself, then I jump into action. I know that I need to work harder and faster to recover the time and effort lost. My salesperson mind goes into overdrive until the issue comes to a resolution."
"My first inclination in the event of a major problem is to roll up my sleeves and jump in to fix it or help mitigate some of the potential blow out. This initial reaction is especially true when the problem involves a student's feelings or wellbeing."
15. What steps do you take when you have to make an immediate decision without all the relevant information?
Sometimes we have to make decisions without all of the pertinent information at our fingertips. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of taking educated guesses and that you are confident enough in your abilities that you can make a firm decision without all pieces of the problem being present.
"When I need to decide without all of the information, I weigh the pros and cons and come up with a solution that makes the most sense. Common sense can take you a long way! Next, I may ask the opinion of someone I trust to see what they think. Even though I trust my decision-making ability, I still think it's important to get a second opinion when it comes to situations involving money or decisions that make a significant impact on others."
"Being organized, I do have a checklist that I follow on all policy-related decisions and changes. If I do not have all necessary information to make an important decision, I can usually find answers in our company resource database, or I will consult an administrator more tenured than I."
"Immediate decisions are required of me on a daily basis. For instance, what do I do when a forklift driver doesn't show up for their shift? How do I react to a chemical spill in the warehouse? I find that the most effective method for making immediate decisions is to forget about what you don't know and focus on what you do know. That's the best anyone can do, and there is no sense wasting time on the what ifs, especially in my industry when the safety of others could be at risk."
"In my current company, we have a rule always to do what will make the client happiest. So, when I am in a situation where I need to make an immediate decision on a client file, I will ask myself what I would want if I were the client. Then, I jump into action to make that happen."
"Often when a customer is worked up, I only have a piece of the puzzle to go off of, whether because they haven't given the full story, or I'm pulled in by the associate who heard the full story. In either case, it's something I'm accustomed to and deal with daily. As far as customer problems go, they tend to follow the same general pattern, so I assess quickly what category the problem seems to fall in, and go from there."
"I am a strong believer in following my gut, and for the most part, it has not steered me wrong. I try to gather as much information as possible, but when all of the pieces are not accessible, I assess the situation using my prior knowledge of similar situations, and I follow my intuition. If I'm not certain or feel conflicted, I don't hesitate to bring in another person to help me come to the best decision for the company."
"I feel comfortable making an immediate decision, even if I don't have all of the relevant information, for the most part. I have great confidence in my situational knowledge as an experienced educator. One example that comes to mind was the class when there was a behavior outburst. I immediately leaped into action to diffuse the situation the best way I knew. By acting quickly, I can prevent the situation from further escalating."
16. How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?
Even the most well-meaning coworkers can distract you from getting things done at work from time to time. The funny and entertaining coworkers who like to chat online and send YouTube videos are often the ones who can get in the way of your productivity if you let them. How do you respond? Show off your ability to set professional boundaries, when needed.
"I typically just set a kind, but clear, boundary and tell my coworker that I need to focus. I will offer an alternate time for a catch-up, over lunch for example. It is important for the sake of workplace culture to set aside time to be social with coworkers, so I usually just let them know when I'll be available for a quick break in the day."
"I understand working relationships are significant, and I'm sure to make time for them so that I can be useful but also enjoy myself at work. With that said, I know where these relationships fall regarding prioritization of my day. I make sure that others know that, too, without being off-putting."
"I am always interrupted by my team - that is par for the course being a manager. To deal with any lost time, I will simply stay late or come to work a bit earlier the next day. My day is unpredictable, and I have accepted that fact."
"I am very open with my colleagues and will let them know if they are a distraction. Currently, I can take my work home as well so if there is a part that I cannot get past due to distractions; I will take a day to work from my home office."
"I try to make the workplace as fun as possible, within reason. I love to make it a place people want to go to, instead of dread. That said, there are always the people that ruin it for the rest of the team by taking advantage. To combat this, I make it very clear what the expectations of allowed and prohibited behaviors are, and am sure to reinforce those expectations."
"There are always going to be co-workers who are there for the gab, rather than the work, or who are content just being in their position with no intent of advancing through the ranks. Early in my career, this bothered me. Why weren't they motivated to grow and learn? Then, I realized that it's important to have those people since a company can't have all its people always vying for the top. If there's a distracting coworker, I try to make my priorities clear and engage kindly and courteously with them as humans, and then get back to work. I am sure to remain friendly, while also firm, as needed, to communicate that I am here for work first as a priority."
"Very rarely do I find that my coworkers successfully distract me- even in a department meeting, I find I'm able to remain on task. I was always taught to ignore the behavior you wish to cease. If my coworkers are distracting and seeking attention, I try to ignore it as much as possible and only address it when it's detracting from a productive work environment."
17. Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot to solve a problem.
Troubleshooting is like reverse engineering - it takes skill, effort, and patience. You have to understand the problem to know how to work backward from it to find a solution. Knowing how to solve problems with technical equipment is always a solid skill, and a great way to demonstrate your example. Show that you are insightful in your approach.
"Last week, while operating the ultrasound machine, I was receiving a repeated error. I entered in a few different codes, but that didn't solve the issue. I then did a hard reset, removing all power sources. Then, I referred to the online manual for additional suggestions. It took a little time and patience, but I was able to resolve the issue without calling a technician."
"We do not have an IT department in my current office so whenever an issue arises, I am the person that my team calls. Troubleshooting is fun for me - it's like a new challenge every time. Google and IT forums are often my best friend!"
"We had a major complication in our system and our entire production line shut down. Our network administrator could not be reached so I had to go old-school and manually enter the orders so that my team could continue with production. The entire debacle lasted half of a day, and my system worked well as a placeholder."
"One of our clients called me in a panic, saying that Facebook rejected their ad campaign that we so carefully crafted. I researched on ad policy forums and learned that it was not approved because we did not set our demographic targets to people only over the age of 21. The ad was for a craft beer company, and we did not put into consideration the legal age in most states. Once I was able to narrow down the issue, I tweaked the ad, and it was approved."
"One horrific day at work, our systems went down entirely. We had no backup for how to check customers out, so I had to dig in the deep recesses of the back room and find the card imprint machines, and we wrote out tickets by hand and made imprints of the cards. I tried all the usual tricks to get our registers up, but couldn't get them to come online as it was a network error. I found the way around it with the handprint cards and then opening the cash drawer with a key."
"In a troubleshooting situation, I approach it like a maze and work backward. There are usually multiple factors contributing to any one issue, so I try to discern what they are, weigh those out and try to conclude what the potential best solution is. As far as technically speaking, my go-to in many situations, as rudimentary and childish as it may be, is often turn it off and turn it back on. Ha. I know it sounds too simple, but it often works best."
"I do everything I can to test out the technology before I bring it into the classroom- the day is so packed that we don't have any time to spare on figuring out technology if it acts up. I also always have a backup plan in mind in case the smart board or whatever we're utilizing that day doesn't cooperate, so we don't lose precious learning time." However, I believe that troubleshooting applies to more than just technology. Problems that occur offline also need troubleshooting as they arise, including figuring out a lesson plan and how it works or doesn't. It's all about working backward to see what issues, if any, may arise in its implementation during a dry run. By preparing in advance and being aware of what issues may come up, I'm able to flush out problems that would have otherwise arisen during the class time. "
18. Tell me about a time when your analysis of a problem was deemed to be incorrect. What would you have done differently?
Everyone makes mistakes when analyzing a situation. The interviewer isn't concerned with perfection; instead, they want to know how you deal the aftermath of rejection! Sometimes you can't correct your mistakes, but you can certainly learn from them. Highlight your ability to learn from your mistakes and move on, professionally.
"It was my first job as a physician's assistant, and I was trying to diagnose a patient who had severe pain in her abdomen. After running some tests, the doctor and I believed she was suffering from a gallbladder problem. We treated her, but she came back to the ER a week later. It turned out she had a problem with her pancreas. Even though we misdiagnosed her initially, we were able to use this mistake to help us identify the real problem. I've learned that sometimes making a mistake is a part of the process of solving a more complicated problem."
"I was asked recently to work on balancing an accounts receivable report. Math is not my strongest suit; however, I was confident in my ability to make it happen. Through a bit of research, I carefully worked on the document and was quite proud of my result. It turns out, I skipped a few important steps, and my work was, in fact, incorrect. I took it as a learning opportunity but also realized that my strengths are in other areas of business. I should have asked for the project to be placed with someone else, but I do not regret trying."
"We had incredibly high turnover rates when I first started in my current role. Going in guns blazing, wanting to make a strong first impression, I did a complete overhaul of the training manual thinking that was the problem. It turns out the training manual was just fine. The culprit to the turnover was one employee who was a complete bully on the job. The moment I terminated that person, the issue was solved. At least now I have a fancy new training manual! Moving forward, I now poll my team regularly for job satisfaction. I encourage a transparent workplace culture where people feel safe bringing their issues to me."
"I had a client, earlier in my career, who was not seeing the same results from their Facebook advertising as they once did. I changed the headlines, increased the budget, and even did multiple A-B tests. What I failed to see were the strategic algorithm changes that Facebook had made, which directly affected the visibility of my clients' ads. Now, I have alerts and subscribe to a couple of blogs solely dedicated to these changes, so I never miss a beat."
"Unfortunately, this happened not too long ago where I misjudged a customer complaint. The associate needed to escalate the conflict to a manager but did not accurately portray the customer's concern, and I jumped into action based off of the limited information given. Due to not gathering enough information from the customer herself or clarifying the misunderstanding with the associate, I took a misstep with the customer and did not resolve the issue as quickly as I would have liked. Ultimately, I was able to clarify the situation and get to a resolution that worked for everyone, leaving the customer happy. However I have some regrets. It was a learning process, and something I have been sure not to repeat since. Were I to do it again, I would clarify the situation with the customer, rather than taking the associate's word for it."
"When pitching an existing client on increased volume next year, I had made a recommendation on the most effective carrier for a lane. I based this recommendation on historical data and projected future rates. However, a merger occurred after the time of the pitch, and their prices skyrocketed since they were the only viable carrier for that area. Without competition, they didn't have to remain competitive in their rates. While I could not have predicted the merger, I could have quoted out with a higher margin on our part so that if there were some snag like this, we are covered. Since we lock in the rates for the customer, we took a loss each time they moved freight this way. As a backup method, whenever possible, I attempted to send the freight another way, so that we would lose some money but not take as large of a hit. That was a big learning experience for me and has helped me be better prepared to pitch other customers in a more effective, CYA type way."
"While teaching, the kids told me that I needed to quiet down at one point. I assumed it was the teacher whom I shared a wall with, that planted the seed, which was irksome. This type of situation had happened before. This time, however, I was wrong. I asked her to avoid delivering messages to me through the students, and she said she had not. Apparently, the students knew she had a headache that day, so they were all watching their volume level. I was glad that I did address the situation with the teacher, but made sure not to be accusatory or make assumptions about motives again."
19. Tell me about the most challenging aspect of your previous job. How did you overcome it?
Sometimes the most significant workplace challenge is a difficult task that puts you outside of your comfort zone. It could be something that requires skills you haven't mastered yet or qualities where you are not the strongest. Explain to the interviewer why it was difficult but be sure to spend more time highlighting the actions you took to overcome the challenge.
"The most challenging aspect of my last job was troubleshooting some of the older technology. We needed some serious upgrades, but they weren't in the budget. Learning how to work around this problem was quite a challenge, but I learned how by referring to old manuals and online forums. I ended up to become one of the stronger users of this program, in our entire office! I quickly became the go-to person when anyone had questions about the technology."
"In my current role, we have global offices that span four time zones. It is an incredible challenge to be continually calculating the difference in my mind when I call or email on updates for projects, for instance. I now have each locations time added to my desktop, my smartphone, and four individual clocks on my wall. These small and inexpensive changes made all the difference."
"The most challenging aspect of my previous job was the constant need to pivot when it came to trends in the industry. We would gain footing, and then the next greatest product would arrive. It made it difficult to feel loyalty to any of it. I started to express loyalty to the company's ability to discern great products instead of narrowing in on the products themselves. This shift in thought helped with mine and my teams' performance when it came to sales."
"My previous role was with a small agency where budgets were always a concern by the clients. Although I liked the clients, they were usually independent businesses with less than ten employees. They had a hard time thinking big-picture. I overcame this by coming up with a questionnaire that would address their greatest pain points and needs for their business. I would then focus on their small goals versus what I felt their company could be. Some business owners are more comfortable being comfortable, versus ruling the world, and that's okay! I just needed to wrap my marketing brain around that."
"The most challenging part of my prior role was navigating the landscape as the newest manager on the team. I needed to work on gaining the trust and respect despite my being green. I worked hard to build individual relationships with each associate and forge a bond with them. I also shared information about myself, including my experience in the industry, and who I am as a person. I know that this made me more human, approachable, and also solidified my credentials, so I know how to get the team on my side."
"The most challenging part of my previous job was relying on another team to be efficient. I am all for teamwork, but for me to be paid, this team needed to deliver timely and quality work. Meanwhile, their goals and metrics remained disconnected to any sales outcomes. This situation made it tough to motivate them. In the short term, I sat down with them and explained why it was vital for myself them, and the company that we work together on the same timeline. I incentivized them with coffee or store gift cards. Bigger picture, I sat down with the management of both teams and shared the issues we were having, suggesting a solution that would tie their KPIs and financial incentives to our outcomes, to make them invested. In the end, the short- and long-term approaches proved useful."
"I think the most challenging aspect of my current job is the fact that I share a classroom with another educator. Without having my space, other obstacles come up such as teachers trying to influence how I run my class, or them holding small conversations with their aides during my teaching time. I make sure to address this up front with the classroom teachers- that while it is also their room, please treat it as though it were mine during the 40 minutes that I am teaching. If there is ever an issue, I am sure to address it quickly and directly, so we can move past it."
20. When faced with a problem, are you more likely to jump into solving it, or are you the type to carefully assess the issue first?
The interviewer would like to know more about your problem-solving skills, and your personality. Discuss how you tackle problems when they arise, and keep your answer work-related if you can. Whether you are the type to jump right into solving a problem or you are more methodical in your approach, highlight to the interviewer that you are capable of handling issues professionally while using sound judgment.
"When faced with a problem, I am more likely to jump right into solving it. I believe that you cannot leave a problem to fester or become bigger than it already is. You have to take ownership of the issue, and involve yourself in the resolution right away. With that said, I am responsible for my decision making and certainly don't jump in blind. If I am unsure of what action to take, I will ask my leader for advice."
"I am careful and calculated in every step taken when it comes to problem-solving. This effort is because as an administrator, one error in judgment can throw off the timing of an entire project. I would say that I am the particular type who thoroughly assesses situations."
"As a manager, responsible for a team of 18 individuals, I need to be very calculated in most decisions that I make. I cannot act on the fly, or by emotion alone because others are relying on me."
"In marketing, I feel that I often have to do both. Some smaller decisions simply cannot be over-thought and others, especially when it comes to strategy, will need extra thought. I can provide both sides when appropriate."
"I think it depends on the situation at hand, honestly. In a familiar situation, I am ready to jump right in and tackle the problem. However, when the stakes are high, or tension is high, I am more inclined to take a step back, slow down, and be more tactful in my approach."
"I'm a "roll up my sleeves" kind of person. I see a problem, envision a solution, and begin to tackle it, figuring it out as I go and asking for help along the way. I think it can become a 'bury your head in the sand' issue, or the team will have the bystander effect, thinking someone else is going to take care of it, so I jump in and take action. I rally the troops, gather the appropriate supplies or resources as needed, and get to work."
"I'm the type of teacher who jumps in, head first and gets the work done. I know that the longer I wait to address a problem, the bigger it becomes, so I make sure to get right to it. This approach applies to interpersonal issues as well as curriculum missteps."
21. Give me a recent example of a valuable lesson you learned from a problem you faced at work.
One of the best aspects of problem-solving is that you always have the opportunity to learn from the experience. Seeing problems as opportunities to grow, is what makes you an excellent employee! Show the interviewer that you can learn valuable lessons when there is a problem at hand. Use a work-related example, if you can.
"Last month our sales team was facing a major challenge when we lost one of our primary distributors. I took action and started cold-calling, other potential distributors. I brainstormed with my team in some other ways that we could avoid a negative impact on our bottom line. We were quite successful in our recovery, and I would say that the biggest lesson I learned from the experience is that you are often only successful if you have motivated people in your corner."
"The most valuable lesson I learned from problem-solving at work is that not everyone will see your solution as the best one. Accepting change is difficult for some people, so I have found that not everyone will be on board right away."
"I recently had an employee express their disinterest in the job and the company. Rather than coach them out, I selfishly wanted to 'save' the employee. I put in extra hours mentoring and training her, just to see her quit anyways. It's a valuable lesson as a manager to put your energy into those who want to be there. Other efforts are often just a temporary fix for the inevitable."
"Marketing is always shifting so I often learn new, valuable lessons. One lesson I recently learned was to double check the documents that I send out for any needed updates. A lot of the manuals and how-tos that we send clients are evergreen; however, some are not. I accidentally sent an old social media guide to a client, and they ended up being incredibly confused. My lack of attention to detail at that moment was a bit embarrassing but lesson learned!"
"A recent learning experience was when I misjudged what the customer was upset about, and I didn't take the time to learn what it was that she was looking for. It reminded me to slow down, go back to the basics, and not assume that all situations fit the mold of the 'typical' customer. It was a perfect reminder that though I've seen most everything, I need to remember that each person and situation is unique."
"A recent valuable lesson for me has been not putting all of my eggs in one basket, as the old saying goes. Over 64% of my sales came from one group of stores, and they've always been a big contributor to the entire company's sales numbers. However, they were put on "hold" recently by their corporate, due to some restructuring issues. This event threw me for a loop. I was in real danger of not hitting my monthly sales target, and therefore I would have fallen short on my quarterly quota as well. I had to work extra long hours and hustle my other clients and fence-sitters to get them into "buy" mode to make up for the void in my numbers. It took a ton of effort, long nights, and creative pitches, but I was able to make up for the gap. I learned just how important it is to diversify my portfolio so that I don't find myself, or the company, in this position again."
"When working on curriculum development, I learned an important lesson. Two of our teachers wanted to keep a lesson in, because of personal connections to the lesson, but the other three were quite against it, with me being the uncertain one. I saw the validity in both sides. So, rather than find ourselves with a divisive issue on our hands, I proposed that we have a "freebie" lesson when we each got to pick one that we thought would culturally enrich our students. I learned that by thinking outside of the box, the team and our students would all benefit."
22. When change occurs in the workplace, it can create new problems. Do you see these as inconvenient problems, or opportunities to learn?
When a change occurs in the workplace, often problems arise due to new implementations and procedures, or unforeseen kinks needing to be worked out. Do you approach these problems positively or do you resist the change? Talk to the interviewer about how you can adapt to the inevitable issues that come with the change in the workplace.
"I fully understand that when the change occurs in the workplace, some new problems may arise because of it. I embrace workplace change because it often gives me the opportunity to learn a new skill or even teach a colleague a new skill."
"As an executive assistant, I see change all the time. Policy changes, travel changes, issues in scheduling, and the like. Although they are often inconvenient or threaten to throw my day off, I am always prepared with a Plan B. Each time these situations occur, I learn something new."
"Change is inevitable when you work with people because you cannot control everyone's reactions in a day, or whether they even show up to work. Recently I had a major shift in my team and, overnight, went from being completely confident in my team to the need of reassessing our strategy. I saw this as an opportunity to stretch outside of my comfort zone. I embrace change and learning opportunities."
"One change that we always go through in this industry are shifts related to social media platforms and online trends. These tools are ever evolving, and when you think you have it - poof - changes are made. I don't mind this, however. I believe that each shift is a chance to learn something new."
"I like to approach every day and situation as an opportunity to learn and grow, so even though it's uncomfortable, I like to think that there's something valuable to take away from any situation that involves change."
"I'm all about taking everything in stride and jumping on opportunities for growth and improvement. My latest job has been a year-long exercise in that: a start-up that pivoted entirely from the direction it had been going in when I was brought on, with an entirely new team and even intended client base. I decided to take it as a growth opportunity. I took a deep breath, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work learning and adapting to the new product, clients, and management. I think that the experience will serve me well in the future since I became quite flexible and learned a lot about myself and sales in the process."
"I am adaptable to change. As a teacher, I have to be open to change! Nothing stays the same in education and students challenge everything. I am capable of pivoting when needed and am not thrown off my game, easily."
23. Rate your problem solving skills from 1-10. How do you justify your rating?
The interviewer wants to know how you would rate your problem-solving skills. Of course, you want to give yourself a healthy rating; however, it's crucial that you remain realistic. Try to avoid giving yourself a 10, and nobody is perfect, and you do not want to come across as overly confident or someone who has no room for feedback and improvement. Alternately, avoid giving yourself too little credit. You do not want to paint the picture that you are a problem-solving dud! Try to remain in the 7.5-9.5 range while staying honest and accurate. Everyone has room to learn and improve! Be sure to justify your score as well.
"I rate my problem-solving skills as an 8/10. I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as efficient as I would like to be but all in all, I do feel that my problem-solving skills are above average. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my fast reflexes when a problem arises, and they would also say that I remain calm under pressure."
"I will rate myself an eight because I value problem-solving but, just like most people, I have things to learn. Some ways to ensure that I can effectively solve issues are by utilizing multiple knowledge resources when looking for answers."
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong problem solver, especially when it comes to important matters that affect my team. Solid problem-solving skills are the foundation of success in business. I am always striving to be a better problem solver, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
"Problem-solving is at the heart of what we do in marketing. We have to solve branding and sales issues for our clients all the time. I am an exceptional problem-solver, and quite creative with my strategies. For that reason, I will rate myself as a 9/10 and always improving."
"I'd rate my problem-solving skills as an 8/10. I believe I'm always a willing learner who brings creativity to the table, no matter what the situation. I am still full of ideas on how to solve a problem, and yet I am also open to the opinion and input of others. I like to collaborate but am not afraid to take charge and make it happen. There's room for growth, which is why I give myself only an 8!"
"I would say I get a solid 8.3 on a scale of 10. Seems weird to give myself something like a .3, but I think of it as an 83%, which is a B minus teetering on a solid B. It's a solid grade, with definite room for improvement, since I'm certainly not perfect. The reason for the B-/B grade would be that I'm quick to take action and figure out the solution as I go, but sometimes I could benefit from taking a moment to pause and reflect or gather other contributors before taking action. That said, I believe I get the best outcome possible when faced with a challenge."
"I would say I'm a strong problem solver and would rate myself an 8/10. I follow my gut and problem solve creatively, but know there is still room for improvement. I think my teamwork and problem strategies highlight my strengths in problem-solving. I can hear what people find essential and flush out the things on which we can compromise. Then, I come up with a great outcome that makes the teachers happy and is in the best interest of our students."
24. What do you think might be the greatest challenges faced in this job? How will you overcome these challenges?
Even though it may seem like a dream job, the interviewer wants to know that you have realistic expectations of the role and that you will not be blindsided if problems or challenges present themselves. Keep your answer simple. It is okay to ask for clarification on the position if you do not fully understand what challenges are in store for you.
"I think the greatest challenges in this role will be to learn the proper operation of the equipment. Another challenge will be the physical aspect of the position as I will be required to stand and walk around most of the day. I will be sure to pay keen attention to training and ask questions along the way. In regards to the physical component - I will get used to the additional activity after just a couple of days, I'm sure."
"I believe that the greatest challenge in this job will be to learn the ins and outs of your systems. I am familiar with SAP; however, will need to navigate some modules that will be new to me. If you don't mind, I would like to gain a head start on these by studying online for the next weekend or so."
"As a new manager, the biggest challenge is always to earn the trust of my new team. I plan to do this by getting to know everyone through genuine interest and conversation. I do understand that solid trust develops over time, but it's important to me to get started on the right foot."
"The greatest challenge is going to be getting to know your clients and their preferences. Every client has their quirks that need to be kept the top of mind during projects. I plan to read as many project notes as possible before diving into face-to-face meetings. I intend to come across to your clients as well-prepared and earnest."
"I think the added responsibility of running one of the highest volume departments in the store will be an adjustment, but it's a welcome challenge. I am looking forward to tackling it head on and growing through the challenges, because I know on the other side of those challenges, of that responsibility, lies the biggest opportunity yet."
"I would say the greatest challenge I'll face in this role is learning the industry ins and outs to be perceived as an expert when making the pitch to new clients. I want to be sure to immerse myself in the industry jargon, attend as many seminars and conventions as possible, and I've already begun subscribing and reading the leading industry publications so that I can get into the nitty-gritty of how it all works. Of course, I will also seek out mentorship opportunities where I can learn from folks who have been in the industry for years. I find they love to share their knowledge and it gives me a leg up."
"I believe the greatest challenge faced in this new position would be getting accustomed to the new curriculum. I am accustomed to my lesson plans and the curriculum I've had a hand in developing over the last ten years, so something new will have a bit of a learning curve, but welcomed. I am looking forward to a new challenge and to tackle a new set of lessons!"
25. What steps do you take to solve a problem?
The interviewer would like to know that you understand the importance of taking calculated steps when problem-solving in the workplace. Most candidates want to sound like go-getters, and their first instinct would be to say that they jump right in. Jumping right in can cause costly mistakes and oversights. Assure the interviewer that you will workshop the issue before diving in! Here are some steps to take: 1. Identify The Problem. Proper problem solving involves ensuring that you are very clear on the nature of the problem. Be sure that you fully understand the core of the problem before trying to repair it. 2. Identify The Stakeholders. Ask yourself, what the best case resolution will be for all stakeholders, not just for yourself. Ask yourself what is best for the company, your coworkers, and your clients. 3. List Your Options. The third step is to figure out what your options are when it comes to your course of action. Write them down if you need to. 4. Evaluate Your Options. Take a look at your list of potential actions and see if you can solve the problem using just one, or a blend of them. 5. Execute! Finally, execute your well-researched action plan. Be sure to set up a follow-up time to ensure that your solution worked.
"When I need to solve a problem, I first stop to ensure that I understand the issue at hand. Once I do, I will think of potential fixes and the pros and cons of each. Whichever solution or a blend of solutions is best for the customer; I will choose that option."
"My current company is very team-focused, and we train everyone to problem-solve with "what is best for team morale" being the question at hand. I have been with the company for twelve years so most problems I have a pretty clear idea of what will work for us, but when I need to workshop an idea, I will call in my team and have a brainstorm session."
"Problem-solving in Marketing can be unique because you have to truly balance the customers' pain point with the solutions that are currently available. Also, some clients like trying new marketing methods and others want to remain conservative, using only tried and true advertising methods, for instance. When I approach a problem, I first identify the personality of the client and their business and research options from there."
"Problem-solving in a retail environment is challenging in the sense that the issue is often something that needs to be fixed immediately, like a faulty product or an upset customer. When faced with a problem, I ask questions first, to ensure that I fully understand the core of the issue. Once I fully understand the core of the problem, I can more easily troubleshoot from there."
"Every customer is different, with unique needs, so when I need to problem-solve, I am often coming across a brand new problem or a different version of a problem I have seen before. Our company is big on chasing the money, and so I have been trained that every solution I choose must have the business' bottom line top of mind. My process is to understand the issue, address who the stakeholders are, and create a solution where everyone feels they won in some small way."
"Problem-solving in the classroom is a challenge because it is often on the fly. Or, a student will ask a question in a new way and I won't necessarily have the answer! When a problem arises, I like to involve my class, have a brainstorm session, and discuss as a group what we could do. This method turns an issue into a conversation where we have the opportunity to come up with some unique solutions."
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Behavioral Interview Series: Problem Solving (for Grad Students and Postdocs)
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In this interactive series, we’ll discuss strategies for delivering meaningful responses to behavioral interview questions and practice developing our responses. During each session, we will focus on one category of questions and share insights on how to organize and deliver answers that highlight your skills and experiences. Join us to practice building persuasive answers to commonly asked interview questions.
Feb 7 – Problem Solving Feb 14 – Teamwork Feb 21 – Initiative Feb 28 – Logistics Mar 6 – Closing
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To Solve a Tough Problem, Reframe It
- Julia Binder
- Michael D. Watkins
Research shows that companies devote too little effort to examining problems before trying to solve them. By jumping immediately into problem-solving, teams limit their ability to design innovative solutions.
The authors recommend that companies spend more time up front on problem-framing, a process for understanding and defining a problem. Exploring different frames is like looking at a scene through various camera lenses while adjusting your angle, aperture, and focus. A wide-angle lens gives you a very different photo from that taken with a telephoto lens, and shifting your angle and depth of focus yields distinct images. Effective problem-framing is similar: Looking at a problem from a variety of perspectives helps you uncover new insights and generate fresh ideas.
This article introduces a five-phase approach to problem-framing: In the expand phase, the team identifies all aspects of a problem; in examine, it dives into root causes; in empathize, it considers key stakeholders’ perspectives; in elevate, it puts the problem into a broader context; and in envision, it creates a road map toward the desired outcome.
Five steps to ensure that you don’t jump to solutions
Idea in Brief
The problem.
Research shows that most companies devote too little effort to examining problems from all angles before trying to solve them. That limits their ability to come up with innovative ways to address them.
The Solution
Companies need a structured approach for understanding and defining complex problems to uncover new insights and generate fresh ideas.
The Approach
This article introduces a five-phase approach to problem-framing: In the expand phase, the team identifies all aspects of a problem; in examine, it dives into root causes; in empathize, it considers key stakeholders’ perspectives; in elevate, it puts the problem into a broader context; and in envision, it creates a road map toward the desired outcome.
When business leaders confront complex problems, there’s a powerful impulse to dive right into “solving” mode: You gather a team and then identify potential solutions. That’s fine for challenges you’ve faced before or when proven methods yield good results. But what happens when a new type of problem arises or aspects of a familiar one shift substantially? Or if you’re not exactly sure what the problem is?
- JB Julia Binder is the director of the Center for Sustainable and Inclusive Business and a professor of sustainable innovation at IMD.
- Michael D. Watkins is a professor of leadership and organizational change at IMD , a cofounder of Genesis Advisers , and the author of The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking .
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Google, IBM make strides toward quantum computers that may revolutionize problem solving
By Scott Pelley
December 3, 2023 / 7:17 PM EST / CBS News
Artificial intelligence is the magic of the moment but this is a story about what's next, something incomprehensible. Tomorrow, IBM will announce an advance in an entirely new kind of computing--one that may solve problems in minutes that would take today's supercomputers millions of years. That's the difference in quantum computing, a technology being developed at IBM, Google and others. It's named for quantum physics, which describes the forces of the subatomic realm. The science is deep and we can't scratch the surface, but we hope to explain enough so that you won't be blindsided by a breakthrough that could transform civilization.
The quantum computer pushes the limits of knowledge--new science, new engineering-- all leading to this processor that computes with the atomic forces that created the universe.
Dario Gil: I think this moment, it feels to us like the pioneers of the 1940s and 50s that were building the first digital computers.
Dario Gil is something of a quantum crusader. Spanish-born with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, Gil is head of research at IBM.
Scott Pelley: How much faster is this than say, the world's best supercomputer today?
Dario Gil: We are now in a stage where we can do certain calculations with these systems that would take the biggest supercomputers in the world to be able to do some similar calculation. But the beauty of it, is that we see that we're gonna continue to expand that capability, such that not even a million or a billion of those supercomputers connected together could do the calculations of these future machines. So, we've come a long way. And the most exciting part is that we have a road map and a journey right now, where that is going to continue to increase at a rate that is gonna be shocking.
Scott Pelley: I'm not sure the world is prepared for this change.
Dario Gil: Definitely not.
To understand the change, go back to 1947 and the invention of a switch called a transistor.
Computers have processed information on transistors ever since, getting faster as more transistors were squeezed onto a chip--billions of them today.
But it takes that many because each transistor holds information in only two states. It's either on or it's off-- like a coin-- heads or tails. Quantum abandons transistors and encodes information on electrons that behave like this coin we created with animation. Electrons behave in a way so that they are heads and tails and everything in between. You've gone from handling one bit of information at a time on a transistor to exponentially more data.
Michio Kaku: You can see that there's a fantastic amount of information stored, when you can look at all possible angles, not just up or down.
Physicist Michio Kaku of the City University of New York, already calls today's computers "classical." He uses a maze to explain quantum's difference.
Michio Kaku: Let's look at a classical computer calculating how a mouse navigates a maze. It is painful. One by one, it has to map every single left turn, right turn, left turn, right turn before it finds the goal. Now a quantum computer scans all possible routes simultaneously. This is amazing. How many turns are there? Hundreds of possible turns, right? Quantum computers do it all at once.
Kaku's book, titled "Quantum Supremacy," explains the stakes.
Michio Kaku: We're looking at a race, a race between China, between IBM, Google, Microsoft, Honeywell, all the big boys are in this race to create a workable, operationally efficient quantum computer. Because the nation or company that does this, will rule the world economy.
But a reliable, general purpose, quantum computer is a tough climb yet. Maybe that's why this wall is in the lobby of Google's quantum lab in California.
Here, we got an inside look, starting with a microscope's view of what replaces the transistor.
Google employee: This right here is one qubit and this is another qubit, this is a five qubit chain.
Those crosses, at the bottom, are qubits, short for quantum bits. They hold the electrons and act like artificial atoms. Unlike transistors, each additional qubit doubles the computer's power. It's exponential. so, while 20 transistors are 20 times more powerful than one. Twenty qubits are a million times more powerful than one.
Charina Chou: So this gets positioned right here on the fridge.
Charina Chou, chief operating officer of Google's lab, showed us the processor that holds the qubits. Much of that above chills the qubits to what physicists call near absolute zero.
Scott Pelley: Near absolute zero I understand is about 460 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. So that's about as cold as anything can get.
Charina Chou: Yes, almost as cold as possible.
That temperature, inside a sealed computer, is one of the coldest places in the universe. The deep freeze eliminates electrical resistance and isolates the qubits from outside vibrations so they can be controlled with an electro-magnetic field. The qubits must vibrate in unison. But that's a tough trick called coherence.
Scott Pelley: Once you have achieved coherence of the qubits, how easy is that to maintain?
Charina Chou: It's really hard. Coherence is very challenging.
Coherence is fleeting. In all similar machines, coherence breaks down constantly--creating errors.
Charina Chou: We're making about one error in every hundred or so steps. Ultimately, we think we're gonna need about one error in every million or so steps. That would probably be identified as one of the biggest barriers.
Mitigating those errors and extending coherence time while scaling up to larger machines are the challenges facing German-American scientist Hartmut Neven, who founded Google's lab, and its casual style, in 2012.
Scott Pelley: Can the problems that are in the way of quantum computing be solved?
Hartmut Neven: I should confess, my subtitle here is chief optimist. After having said this, I would say at this point, we don't need any more fundamental breakthroughs. We need little improvements here and there. If we have all the pieces together, we just need to integrate them well to build larger and larger systems.
Scott Pelley: And you think that all of this will be integrated into a system in what period of time?
Hartmut Neven: Yeah. We often say we wanna do it by the end of the decade so that we can use this Kennedy quote, "Get it done by the end of the decade."
Scott Pelley: The end of this decade?
Hartmut Neven: Yes.
Scott Pelley: Five or six years?
That's about the timeline Dario Dil predicts. And the IBM research director told us something surprising.
Scott Pelley: There are problems that classical computers can never solve.
Dario Gil: Can never solve. And I think this is an important point because we're accustomed to say, "ah computers get better." Actually, there are many, many problems that are so complex that we can make that statement that, "Actually, classical computers will never be able to solve that problem." Not now, not 100 years from now, not 1,000 years from now." You actually require a different way to represent information and process information. That's what quantum gives you.
Quantum could give us answers to impossible problems in physics, chemistry, engineering and medicine. Which is why IBM and Cleveland Clinic have installed one of the first quantum computers to leave the lab for the real world.
Serpil Erzurum: It takes way too much time to find the solutions we need.
We sat down with Dario Gil and Dr. Serpil Erzurum, chief research officer at Cleveland Clinic. She told us health care would be transformed if quantum computers can model the behavior of proteins- the molecules that regulate all life. Proteins change shape to change function in ways too complex to follow. and when they get it wrong that causes disease.
Serpil Erzurum: It takes on many shapes, many, many shapes, depending upon what it's doing, and where it is, and which other protein it's with. I need to understand the shape it's in when it's doing an interaction or a function that I don't want it to do for that patient. Cancer, autoimmunity. It's a problem. We are limited completely by the computational ability to look at the structure in real time for any, even one, molecule.
Cleveland Clinic is so proud of its quantum computer they set it up in a lobby. Behind the glass, that shiny silver cylinder encloses the kind of cooling system and processor you saw earlier. Quantum is not solving the protein problem yet. This is more of a trial run to introduce researchers to quantum's potential.
Scott Pelley: The people using this machine, are they having to learn an entirely different way to communicate with a computer?
Dario Gil: I think that's what's really nice, that you actually just use a regular laptop, and you write a program very much like you would write a traditional program. But when you, you know, click, you know, "go" and "run," it just happens to run on a very different kind of computer.
There are a half dozen competing designs in the race. China named quantum a top national priority and the U.S. government is spending nearly a billion dollars a year on research. The first change comes next year when the U.S. publishes new standards for encryption because quantum is expected one day to break the codes that lock everything from national secrets to credit cards. Tomorrow, IBM will unveil its Quantum System Two with three times the qubits as the machine you saw in Cleveland. This past August, we saw System Two under construction.
Dario Gil: It's a machine unlike anything we have ever built.
Scott Pelley: And this is it.
Dario Gil: And this is it.
IBM's Dario Gil told us System Two has the room to expand to thousands of qubits.
Scott Pelley: What are the chances that this is one of those things that's gonna be ready in five years and always will be?
Dario Gil: We don't see an obstacle right now that would prevent us from building systems that will have tens of thousands and even a 100 thousand qubits working with each other. So we are highly confident that we will get there.
Of all the amazing things we heard, it was physicist Michio Kaku who led us down the path to the biggest idea of all. He said we were walking through a quantum computer. Processing information with subatomic particles is how the universe works.
Michio Kaku: You know when I look at the night sky, I see stars, I look at the flowers, the trees I realize that it's all quantum, the splendor of the universe itself. The language of the universe is the language of the quantum.
Learning that language may bring more than inconceivable speed. Reverse engineering nature's computer could be a window on creation itself.
Produced by Denise Schrier Cetta and Katie Brennan. Broadcast associates, Michelle Karim and Eliza Costas. Edited by Warren Lustig
Correspondent, "60 Minutes"
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While Santa Claus may have a magical sleigh and nine plucky reindeer to help him deliver presents, for companies like FedEx, the optimization problem of efficiently routing holiday packages is so complicated that they often employ specialized software to find a solution.
This software, called a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) solver, splits a massive optimization problem into smaller pieces and uses generic algorithms to try and find the best solution. However, the solver could take hours — or even days — to arrive at a solution.
The process is so onerous that a company often must stop the software partway through, accepting a solution that is not ideal but the best that could be generated in a set amount of time.
Researchers from MIT and ETH Zurich used machine learning to speed things up.
They identified a key intermediate step in MILP solvers that has so many potential solutions it takes an enormous amount of time to unravel, which slows the entire process. The researchers employed a filtering technique to simplify this step, then used machine learning to find the optimal solution for a specific type of problem.
Their data-driven approach enables a company to use its own data to tailor a general-purpose MILP solver to the problem at hand.
This new technique sped up MILP solvers between 30 and 70 percent, without any drop in accuracy. One could use this method to obtain an optimal solution more quickly or, for especially complex problems, a better solution in a tractable amount of time.
This approach could be used wherever MILP solvers are employed, such as by ride-hailing services, electric grid operators, vaccination distributors, or any entity faced with a thorny resource-allocation problem.
“Sometimes, in a field like optimization, it is very common for folks to think of solutions as either purely machine learning or purely classical. I am a firm believer that we want to get the best of both worlds, and this is a really strong instantiation of that hybrid approach,” says senior author Cathy Wu, the Gilbert W. Winslow Career Development Assistant Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), and a member of a member of the Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems (LIDS) and the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS).
Wu wrote the paper with co-lead authors Sirui Li, an IDSS graduate student, and Wenbin Ouyang, a CEE graduate student; as well as Max Paulus, a graduate student at ETH Zurich. The research will be presented at the Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems.
Tough to solve
MILP problems have an exponential number of potential solutions. For instance, say a traveling salesperson wants to find the shortest path to visit several cities and then return to their city of origin. If there are many cities which could be visited in any order, the number of potential solutions might be greater than the number of atoms in the universe.
“These problems are called NP-hard, which means it is very unlikely there is an efficient algorithm to solve them. When the problem is big enough, we can only hope to achieve some suboptimal performance,” Wu explains.
An MILP solver employs an array of techniques and practical tricks that can achieve reasonable solutions in a tractable amount of time.
A typical solver uses a divide-and-conquer approach, first splitting the space of potential solutions into smaller pieces with a technique called branching. Then, the solver employs a technique called cutting to tighten up these smaller pieces so they can be searched faster.
Cutting uses a set of rules that tighten the search space without removing any feasible solutions. These rules are generated by a few dozen algorithms, known as separators, that have been created for different kinds of MILP problems.
Wu and her team found that the process of identifying the ideal combination of separator algorithms to use is, in itself, a problem with an exponential number of solutions.
“Separator management is a core part of every solver, but this is an underappreciated aspect of the problem space. One of the contributions of this work is identifying the problem of separator management as a machine learning task to begin with,” she says.
Shrinking the solution space
She and her collaborators devised a filtering mechanism that reduces this separator search space from more than 130,000 potential combinations to around 20 options. This filtering mechanism draws on the principle of diminishing marginal returns, which says that the most benefit would come from a small set of algorithms, and adding additional algorithms won’t bring much extra improvement.
Then they use a machine-learning model to pick the best combination of algorithms from among the 20 remaining options.
This model is trained with a dataset specific to the user’s optimization problem, so it learns to choose algorithms that best suit the user’s particular task. Since a company like FedEx has solved routing problems many times before, using real data gleaned from past experience should lead to better solutions than starting from scratch each time.
The model’s iterative learning process, known as contextual bandits, a form of reinforcement learning, involves picking a potential solution, getting feedback on how good it was, and then trying again to find a better solution.
This data-driven approach accelerated MILP solvers between 30 and 70 percent without any drop in accuracy. Moreover, the speedup was similar when they applied it to a simpler, open-source solver and a more powerful, commercial solver.
In the future, Wu and her collaborators want to apply this approach to even more complex MILP problems, where gathering labeled data to train the model could be especially challenging. Perhaps they can train the model on a smaller dataset and then tweak it to tackle a much larger optimization problem, she says. The researchers are also interested in interpreting the learned model to better understand the effectiveness of different separator algorithms.
This research is supported, in part, by Mathworks, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the MIT Amazon Science Hub, and MIT’s Research Support Committee.
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Problem-solving interview questions are questions that employers ask related to the candidate's ability to gather data, analyze a problem, weigh the pros and cons and reach a logical decision. Also known as analytical skills interview questions, these questions will often focus on specific instances when the candidate analyzed a situation or ...
The word "process.". In the end, problem-solving is an activity. It's your ability to take appropriate steps to find answers, determine how to proceed, or otherwise overcome the challenge. Being great at it usually means having a range of helpful problem-solving skills and traits. Research, diligence, patience, attention-to-detail ...
Partner - Acumen Search Partners & MD Wickham Partners. Learn how to demonstrate your problem-solving skills during a job interview, and answer different types of questions with the 4A framework.
Problem-solving interview questions show how candidates: Approach complex issues. Analyze data to understand the root of the problem. Perform under stressful and unexpected situations. React when their beliefs are challenged. Identify candidates who are results-oriented with interview questions that assess problem-solving skills. Look for ...
To put these skills to the test, recruiters use "problem-solving" job interview questions, also known as analytical questions. Here are some common ones: Tell me about a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem. Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
Use examples and stories. One of the best ways to showcase your problem-solving skills in an interview is to use examples and stories from your previous work or personal projects. When you answer ...
A: A candidate's ability to answer this problem solving interview question indicates how much previous workplace experience they have with difficult decision making. It also shows how honest they are about discussing past failures in the workplace and how willing they are to ask for help. What to look for in an answer:
Problem-solving interview questions should test both technical skills and soft skills. STAR, SOAR and PREP are methods a candidate can use to answer some non-technical problem-solving interview questions. Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate's fit. But you can go one step further by customizing them ...
Hiring managers ask problem-solving interview questions to gauge a candidate's ability to gather data, analyse problems, consider pros and cons and come to an informed decision. Questions focusing on problem-solving may refer to specific situations you may have experienced throughout your career and how you respond to them.
Tips for answering problem-solving interview questions. When preparing for your interview and during your meeting, follow these tips for creating the most significant impact with your responses to problem-solving and analytical interview questions:. Remember the five-step process of problem-solving when developing your response. Use the STAR method to create a well-formed answer, including the ...
If you are asked to solve a problem in a solo interview, it's an excellent strategy to demonstrate how you are able to follow the five primary steps in problem solving : Analyze the factors that caused the problem. Brainstorm possible solutions. Evaluate the cost and potential viability of these solutions. Implement a plan.
Sample answer: "I'm an advocate of the 15-minute rule. I will take at least 15 minutes to try and solve the problem on my own. In that time, I will identify the problem, decide what the ideal result would be, and work out tasks to reach my goal. I'd rule out any options that might not work and consider the consequences of the options I ...
Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios in the Workplace. Correcting a mistake at work, whether it was made by you or someone else. Overcoming a delay at work through problem solving and communication. Resolving an issue with a difficult or upset customer. Overcoming issues related to a limited budget, and still delivering good work through the ...
Problem-solving interview questions assess your ability to understand and analyse a problem, make judgements about the options and find a suitable solution. Problem-solving skills are helpful in most jobs, and questions about them can come up in an interview. Interviewers want to be confident that a new employee can navigate challenges and ...
Examples of problem-solving interview questions. An interviewer may ask a problem-solving interview question in various ways. This is going to vary depending on the industry and the specific role in question. However, there are some common formats for asking these questions. Some examples are:
I also try to tackle the problems that I feel most confident in solving first.". Systematic. "I like to use a decision matrix to evaluate and prioritize multiple problems. I analyze each problem based on factors such as urgency, impact, and feasibility, and then choose the one that has the highest priority.". 11.
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8. Detail how you've handled a scenario where team members disagreed on the solution to a problem. Navigating team disagreements can reflect deeper dynamics such as power struggles, communication breakdowns, or diverse perspectives. This question helps understand how a candidate resolves conflicts and builds consensus.
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Problem-solving interview questions are designed to test a candidate's ability to identify obstacles, potential issues, or key opportunities, and then implement effective solutions accordingly. Our collection of problem-solving interview questions includes explanations and red flags to look out for during an interview.
Common Problem Solving Skills Interview Questions. 1. Describe a situation where you had to solve a problem with no obvious solution. Having strong problem-solving skills is crucial in many job roles, particularly in positions where unexpected challenges are common.
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During each session, we will focus on one category of questions and share insights on how to organize and deliver answers that highlight your skills and experiences. Join us to practice building persuasive answers to commonly asked interview questions. Feb 7 - Problem Solving Feb 14 - Teamwork Feb 21 - Initiative Feb 28 - Logistics
The Problem. Research shows that most companies devote too little effort to examining problems from all angles before trying to solve them. That limits their ability to come up with innovative ...
Tomorrow, IBM will announce an advance in an entirely new kind of computing--one that may solve problems in minutes that would take today's supercomputers millions of years. That's the difference ...
Researchers from MIT and ETZ Zurich have developed a new, data-driven machine-learning technique that speeds up software programs used to solve complex optimization problems that can have millions of potential solutions. Their approach could be applied to many complex logistical challenges, such as package routing, vaccine distribution, and power grid management.
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Every other day, we keep reporting about websites that allow you to watch the latest movies and TV shows without any payment. These are torrent websites that upload HD links of recently released movies and shows. Adding to the list is the Filmyzilla website which allows you to download Bollywood, Hollywood, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam movies for free. It provides pirated versions of all the shows and movies and is very popular among the masses. Let us know everything about this website.
Filmyzilla Website FAQs
Q: What exactly is Filmyzilla?
A: It is a public torrent website that leaks movies illegally and allows you to download movies and shows for free. There are various categories of movies uploaded illegally on this website which makes it a copyright violation. This website also allows you to download songs in Hindi, English, and other languages.
Q: Name some categories of films available on Filmyzilla.
A: Action, Thriller, Comedy, Drama, and Romance are some categories of movies and shows available on Filmyzilla.
Q: Name some latest movies available on Filmyzilla.
The latest victim of FLimyzilla leaks is recent releases including Pathaan and Avatar 2. It is reported that Pathaan movie has leaked online on Flimyzilla.
- What are some latest movies that are available on the moviezwap website?
- Tu Jhooti Main Makkar
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods
- Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway
- Bhoom Bhulaiyaa 2
- Janhit Mein Jaari
- Jurassic World: Dominion
- Avatar: the Way of Water
- Samrat Prithviraj
- Heropanti 2
- Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness
- Jayeshbhai Jordaar
- Sharmaji Namkeen
- KGF Chapter 2
- The Terminal List
- Minions: The Rise of Gru
- Jugg Jug Jeeyo
- Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
Q: Name some URLs of the Filmyzilla Website.
- Filmyzilla.observer
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Q: Which formats are available for downloading movies on Filmyzilla?
The formats available are-
- 123mkv Movie Download: Is it safe & legal to download movies from 123mkv?
- Movierulz Tamilrockers movie download 2022: Is it safe and legal to download movies in India?
- 9xmovies Movies Download Website: will I go to jail if I download movies from 9xmovies?
Q: Is it safe to download movies and shows from Filmyzilla?
A: Filmyzilla seems like a good option to download movies, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Check the files you want to download for viruses and scan any files you feel are unsafe for your phone or computer. There have been reports of malware being attached to certain files, so it is better to be careful.
Q: Is it legal to download movies and shows from Filmyzilla?
A: No, it is not legal as the website uploads pirated content.
Q: What are the features of Filmyzilla?
A: It is a movie download and streaming service that offers a library of movies and TV shows to watch on-demand. It has a movie theatre mode that allows users to watch movies in fullscreen with audio and subtitles.
Q: What kinds of movies can one download from Filmyzilla?
A: Filmyzilla is a download site that offers formats like .avi, .mp4 and .mkv.
Q: Name some legal alternatives to Filmyzilla.
A: Some legal paid alternatives to Filmyzilla are-
Zee5, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, SonyLIV, Disney+Hotstar, MX Player, HBO, YouTube, Ullu, and more.
Note: This content is for reference purposes only and Smartprix does not support or promote piracy in any manner. One should follow the law of the land and should refrain from downloading content illegally.
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The only ghost that only movement pulp complex and passion does not appear that are both attractive and revealing, Download Phantom 2015 Hindi Movie but also to find deep concern. These wanton, reckless, wounded-in-China-shop bull production fed through violence can be seen in the eyes of man, and guide the way to interfere in their divisions from injury, all aimed at the attackers and do not necessarily lead to justice. That violence Khan gives the film dominance unchallenged, and nowhere (with lyrics like “I could do with this brutal act of love” and the songs sound like the cries of war).
After the mourning period of ten years of self-examination and the cave in American films, Phantom 2015 Hindi Full Movie Download Free so that the spirit of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008 seems likely to hang over Indian cinema for the next future. We had Greengrassy 2013 docudrama 26/11 attacks, says veteran consciously Ram Gopal Varma these events from the perspective Rakesh Maria, chief of police in Mumbai. Phantom now, and modification of speculative fiction Hussein Zaidi Mumbai Avengers, which is due more to the school 24 / Patria fight against terrorism, the frequency that is the case, the importance of the fulfillment of desire mellow safe Kabir Khan.
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Watch Phantom 2015 Hindi Full Movie Online HD Trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Su0gJWOd00M
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Movie Star Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Katrina Kaif, Rajesh Tailang
Synopsis: Phantom is a political thriller that unfolds across various countries around the world. The plot revolves around protagonist Daniyal, whose journey to seek justice takes him from India to Europe, America and the volatile Middle East. However, he finds out that in a mission like this, there is always a price to pay, in this case, a very personal price.
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Phantom is an action thriller that unfolds across various countries around the world. The plot revolves around protagonist Daniyal, whose journey to seek justice takes him from India to Europe, America and the volatile Middle East. However, he finds out that in a mission like this, there is always a price to pay, in this case, a very personal price.
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Phantom. 2015 | Maturity Rating: 16+ | 2h 9m | Action. India's primary intelligence agency sends an enigmatic operative on a top-secret mission to avenge the 11/26 terrorist attack on Mumbai. Starring: Saif Ali Khan, Katrina Kaif, Sabyasachi Chakraborty.
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Every other day, we keep reporting about websites that allow you to watch the latest movies and TV shows without any payment. These are torrent websites that upload HD links of recently released movies and shows. Adding to the list is the Filmyzilla website which allows you to download Bollywood, Hollywood, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam …
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Movie Star Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Katrina Kaif, Rajesh Tailang Synopsis: Phantom is a political thriller that unfolds across various countries around the world. The plot revolves around protagonist Daniyal, whose journey to seek justice takes him from India to Europe, America and the volatile Middle East. However, he finds out that in a mission like this, there is always a price to pay, in this ...