What is the hiring manager looking for?

When hiring managers ask this question, they want to know if you have the skills and experience to lead a team through a period of significant change. They want to see evidence that you can communicate effectively, motivate your team, and make difficult decisions.

How to structure your answer

The STAR method is a good way to structure your answer to this question:
* Situation: Describe the situation you were in, including the challenges you faced.
* Task: Explain the task you were given or the goal you were trying to achieve.
* Action: Describe the specific actions you took to lead your team through the change.
* Result: Explain the results of your actions, including the positive impact you had on your team and the organization.

Tips to answer this interview question

Tips for answering this question:

* Be specific and provide concrete examples.
* Use the STAR method to structure your answer.
* Focus on your leadership skills and your ability to handle change.
* Practice your answer before your interview.

Things to avoid when answering this question:

* Don’t ramble on or go off on tangents.
* Don’t focus on the negative aspects of the change.
* Don’t blame others for the challenges you faced.
* Don’t be vague or unclear in your answer.

Example interview answers to this question

Sample answers:

* Answer 1:

“I was the project manager for a large-scale change initiative at my previous company. The goal was to implement a new software system that would streamline our operations and improve efficiency. I led a team of 10 people, including developers, business analysts, and project coordinators.

I started by creating a detailed project plan and timeline. I then communicated the plan to my team and made sure everyone understood their roles and responsibilities. I also held regular team meetings to keep everyone updated on our progress and to address any challenges that arose.

The project was a success, and we were able to implement the new software system on time and within budget. The new system resulted in a significant improvement in our efficiency and productivity.

I learned a lot from this experience. I learned the importance of clear communication, effective teamwork, and adaptability. I also learned the importance of being able to make difficult decisions and to stay calm under pressure.”

Why this answer is strong:

This answer is strong because it provides a clear and concise example of a time when the candidate successfully led a team through a period of significant change. The candidate uses the STAR method to structure their answer and focuses on their leadership skills and ability to handle change. They also provide specific examples of the positive impact they had on their team and the organization.

* Answer 2:

“I was the CEO of a small company when we had to make the difficult decision to lay off 20% of our workforce. This was a very challenging time for everyone involved, but I knew it was necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the company.

I started by communicating the decision to the employees in a clear and honest manner. I explained the reasons for the layoffs and I assured them that we were doing everything we could to support them during this difficult time.

I also worked with my team to develop a severance package that was fair and generous. I also provided employees with outplacement services to help them find new jobs.

The layoffs were successful in reducing our costs and helping us to stay afloat. The company was able to recover from the downturn and we were eventually able to rehire some of the employees who had been laid off.

I learned a lot from this experience. I learned the importance of being able to make difficult decisions, even when they are unpopular. I also learned the importance of communicating clearly and honestly with employees. I also learned the importance of providing support to employees during difficult times.”

Why this answer is strong:

This answer is strong because it provides a clear and concise example of a time when the candidate successfully led a team through a period of significant change. The candidate uses the STAR method to structure their answer and focuses on their leadership skills and ability to handle change. They also provide specific examples of the positive impact they had on their team and the organization.