Top interview questions to expect

1. Tell me about a time when you had to overcome a significant challenge or setback. How did you go about it, and what was the outcome?
2. Describe a situation where you were able to successfully collaborate with a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team’s success?
3. Give me an example of a time when you had to use your creativity and problem-solving skills to find a solution to a difficult situation.
4. Tell me about a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information. How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome?
5. Describe a situation where you had to overcome a conflict or disagreement with a colleague. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
6. Tell me about a time when you failed to meet expectations. How did you deal with the situation and what did you learn from it?
7. Describe a time when you had to overcome a fear or obstacle that was holding you back in your career. How did you overcome it, and what was the outcome?

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

The STAR Framework is a commonly used method for answering behavioral interview questions. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. To answer a behavioral interview question using the STAR Framework, you should first describe the Situation in which you found yourself. Then, explain the Task that you were responsible for. Next, describe the Actions that you took to complete the task. Finally, explain the Result of your actions. When using the STAR Framework, it is important to be specific and provide details. Avoid using vague or general statements.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Tell me about a time when you had to overcome a significant challenge or setback. How did you go about it, and what was the outcome?

Answer: I was tasked with leading a project to implement a new software system. The project was complex and faced several unforeseen challenges, such as technical issues and resistance from some team members. I used my project management skills to stay organized and keep the team on track. I also worked closely with the team to identify solutions to the technical issues and address the concerns of the team members. The project was eventually completed successfully and on time.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to provide a detailed account of a challenging situation. The candidate demonstrates their project management skills, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively with a team.

2. Describe a situation where you were able to successfully collaborate with a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team’s success?

Answer: I was part of a team tasked with developing a new marketing campaign for a new product launch. I played a key role in brainstorming ideas, creating content, and managing the social media campaign. I also worked closely with the sales team to ensure that the campaign was aligned with their goals. The campaign was a success, generating a significant increase in sales.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to highlight the candidate’s teamwork skills, creativity, and ability to align their work with the goals of other departments.

3. Give me an example of a time when you had to use your creativity and problem-solving skills to find a solution to a difficult situation.

Answer: I was working on a project that involved developing a new website. We encountered a technical issue that prevented us from displaying images on the website. I used my problem-solving skills to identify the source of the issue and develop a solution. I also worked with the team to implement the solution and ensure that the website was functioning properly.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to demonstrate the candidate’s creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively with a team.

4. Tell me about a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information. How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome?

Answer: I was faced with a difficult decision when I had to choose between two job offers. Both offers were from reputable companies, and each had its own advantages and disadvantages. I carefully considered the pros and cons of each offer, and I also sought advice from my mentors and colleagues. Ultimately, I made the decision that I believed was best for my career.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to highlight the candidate’s decision-making skills, their ability to gather information and seek advice, and their willingness to make a difficult choice.

5. Describe a situation where you had to overcome a conflict or disagreement with a colleague. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?

Answer: I was working on a project with a colleague who had a different approach to the work than I did. We had a disagreement about the best way to complete a task. I approached the situation by actively listening to my colleague’s perspective and trying to understand their point of view. I also shared my own perspective and worked together to find a compromise that we both agreed on.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to demonstrate the candidate’s conflict resolution skills, their ability to listen to others, and their willingness to compromise.

6. Tell me about a time when you failed to meet expectations. How did you deal with the situation and what did you learn from it?

Answer: I was tasked with completing a project by a certain deadline. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, I was unable to meet the deadline. I immediately informed my manager of the situation and worked with them to develop a new timeline. I also learned from the experience and made changes to my work habits to ensure that I would be able to meet deadlines in the future.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to show the candidate’s ability to take responsibility for their mistakes, their willingness to learn from their mistakes, and their ability to make changes to improve their performance.

7. Describe a time when you had to overcome a fear or obstacle that was holding you back in your career. How did you overcome it, and what was the outcome?

Answer: I was afraid of public speaking, and this fear was holding me back from advancing in my career. I decided to overcome my fear by joining a Toastmasters club. I practiced my speaking skills regularly, and I gradually became more confident in my ability to speak in public. As a result, I was able to take on more leadership roles at work, and I also started giving presentations to clients.

Why it’s a strong answer: This answer uses the STAR Framework to highlight the candidate’s ability to overcome a fear, their willingness to take risks, and their ability to achieve their goals.