my career tech problem solving answers

26 Expert-Backed Problem Solving Examples – Interview Answers

Published: February 13, 2023

Interview Questions and Answers

Actionable advice from real experts:

Biron Clark

Former Recruiter

Contributor

Dr. Kyle Elliott

Career Coach

Hayley Jukes

Editor-in-Chief

Biron Clark , Former Recruiter

Kyle Elliott , Career Coach

Hayley Jukes , Editor

As a recruiter , I know 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 are more likely to hire you if you seem like you can handle unexpected challenges while staying calm and logical.

But how do they measure this?

Hiring managers will ask you interview questions about your problem-solving skills, and they might also look for examples of problem-solving on your resume and cover letter. 

In this article, I’m going to share a list of problem-solving examples and sample interview answers to questions like, “Give an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem?” and “Describe a time when you had to solve a problem without managerial input. How did you handle it, and what was the result?”

• Problem-solving involves identifying, prioritizing, analyzing, and solving problems using a variety of skills like critical thinking, creativity, decision making, and communication.
• Describe the Situation, Task, Action, and Result ( STAR method ) when discussing your problem-solving experiences.
• Tailor your interview answer with the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description.
• Provide numerical data or metrics to demonstrate the tangible impact of your problem-solving efforts.

What are Problem Solving Skills? 

Problem-solving is the ability to identify a 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 encompasses other skills that can be showcased in an interview response and your resume. Problem-solving skills examples include:

• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Decision making
• Research skills
• Technical skills
• Communication skills
• Adaptability and flexibility

Why is Problem Solving Important in the Workplace?

Problem-solving is essential in the workplace because it directly impacts productivity and efficiency. Whenever you encounter a problem, tackling it head-on prevents minor issues from escalating into bigger ones that could disrupt the entire workflow. 

Beyond maintaining smooth operations, your ability to solve problems fosters innovation. It encourages you to think creatively, finding better ways to achieve goals, which keeps the business competitive and pushes the boundaries of what you can achieve. 

Effective problem-solving also contributes to a healthier work environment; it reduces stress by providing clear strategies for overcoming obstacles and builds confidence within teams. 

Examples of Problem-Solving 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

How To Answer “Tell Us About a Problem You Solved”

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 mentions problem-solving as a necessary skill), I recommend using the STAR method.

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. 

Start by briefly describing the general situation and the task at hand. 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 the positive result you achieved.

Note: Our sample answers below are structured following the STAR formula. Be sure to check them out!

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Kyle Elliott , MPA, CHES Tech & Interview Career Coach caffeinatedkyle.com

How can I communicate complex problem-solving experiences clearly and succinctly?

Before answering any interview question, it’s important to understand why the interviewer is asking the question in the first place.

When it comes to questions about your complex problem-solving experiences, for example, the interviewer likely wants to know about your leadership acumen, collaboration abilities, and communication skills, not the problem itself.

Therefore, your answer should be focused on highlighting how you excelled in each of these areas, not diving into the weeds of the problem itself, which is a common mistake less-experienced interviewees often make.

Tailoring Your Answer Based on the Skills Mentioned in the Job Description

As a recruiter, one of the top tips I can give you when responding to the prompt “Tell us about a problem you solved,” is to tailor your answer to the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description. 

Once you’ve pinpointed the skills and key competencies the employer is seeking, craft your response to highlight experiences where you successfully utilized or developed those particular abilities. 

For instance, if the job requires strong leadership skills, focus on a problem-solving scenario where you took charge and effectively guided a team toward resolution. 

By aligning your answer with the desired skills outlined in the job description, you demonstrate your suitability for the role and show the employer that you understand their needs.

Amanda Augustine expands on this by saying:

“Showcase the specific skills you used to solve the problem. Did it require critical thinking, analytical abilities, or strong collaboration? Highlight the relevant skills the employer is seeking.”  

Interview Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Solved 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,” or “Tell me about a time you solved a problem,” since you’re likely to hear different versions of this interview question in all sorts of industries.

The example interview responses are structured using the STAR method and are categorized into the top 5 key problem-solving skills recruiters look for in a candidate.

1. Analytical Thinking

Situation: In my previous role as a data analyst , our team encountered a significant drop in website traffic.

Task: I was tasked with identifying the root cause of the decrease.

Action: I conducted a thorough analysis of website metrics, including traffic sources, user demographics, and page performance. Through my analysis, I discovered a technical issue with our website’s loading speed, causing users to bounce. 

Result: By optimizing server response time, compressing images, and minimizing redirects, we saw a 20% increase in traffic within two weeks.

2. Critical Thinking

Situation: During a project deadline crunch, our team encountered a major technical issue that threatened to derail our progress.

Task: My task was to assess the situation and devise a solution quickly.

Action: I immediately convened a meeting with the team to brainstorm potential solutions. Instead of panicking, I encouraged everyone to think outside the box and consider unconventional approaches. We analyzed the problem from different angles and weighed the pros and cons of each solution.

Result: By devising a workaround solution, we were able to meet the project deadline, avoiding potential delays that could have cost the company $100,000 in penalties for missing contractual obligations.

3. Decision Making

Situation: As a project manager , I was faced with a dilemma when two key team members had conflicting opinions on the project direction.

Task: My task was to make a decisive choice that would align with the project goals and maintain team cohesion.

Action: I scheduled a meeting with both team members to understand their perspectives in detail. I listened actively, asked probing questions, and encouraged open dialogue. After carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach, I made a decision that incorporated elements from both viewpoints.

Result: The decision I made not only resolved the immediate conflict but also led to a stronger sense of collaboration within the team. By valuing input from all team members and making a well-informed decision, we were able to achieve our project objectives efficiently.

4. Communication (Teamwork)

Situation: During a cross-functional project, miscommunication between departments was causing delays and misunderstandings.

Task: My task was to improve communication channels and foster better teamwork among team members.

Action: I initiated regular cross-departmental meetings to ensure that everyone was on the same page regarding project goals and timelines. I also implemented a centralized communication platform where team members could share updates, ask questions, and collaborate more effectively.

Result: Streamlining workflows and improving communication channels led to a 30% reduction in project completion time, saving the company $25,000 in operational costs.

5. Persistence 

Situation: During a challenging sales quarter, I encountered numerous rejections and setbacks while trying to close a major client deal.

Task: My task was to persistently pursue the client and overcome obstacles to secure the deal.

Action: I maintained regular communication with the client, addressing their concerns and demonstrating the value proposition of our product. Despite facing multiple rejections, I remained persistent and resilient, adjusting my approach based on feedback and market dynamics.

Result: After months of perseverance, I successfully closed the deal with the client. By closing the major client deal, I exceeded quarterly sales targets by 25%, resulting in a revenue increase of $250,000 for the company.

Tips to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

Throughout your career, being able to showcase and effectively communicate your problem-solving skills gives you more leverage in achieving better jobs and earning more money .

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.

Don’t just say you’re good at solving problems. Show it with specifics. How much did you boost efficiency? Did you save the company money? Adding numbers can really make your achievements stand out.

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 improve researching and analyzing a situation, how you can get better at communicating, and deciding on 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.

More Interview Resources

• 3 Answers to “How Do You Handle Stress?”
• How to Answer “How Do You Handle Conflict?” (Interview Question)
• Sample Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Failed”

About the Author

Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. He has been advising job seekers since 2012 to think differently in their job search and land high-paying, competitive positions. Follow on Twitter and LinkedIn .

Read more articles by Biron Clark

About the Contributor

Kyle Elliott , career coach and mental health advocate, transforms his side hustle into a notable practice, aiding Silicon Valley professionals in maximizing potential. Follow Kyle on LinkedIn .

About the Editor

Hayley Jukes is the Editor-in-Chief at CareerSidekick with five years of experience creating engaging articles, books, and transcripts for diverse platforms and audiences.

Continue Reading

12 Expert-Approved Responses to ‘What Makes You Unique?’ in Job Interviews

15 most common pharmacist interview questions and answers, 15 most common paralegal interview questions and answers, top 30+ funny interview questions and answers, 60 hardest interview questions and answers, 100+ best ice breaker questions to ask candidates, top 20 situational interview questions (& sample answers), 15 most common physical therapist interview questions and answers.

Better resumes & cover letters

AI Resume Builder

Resume Checker

AI Cover Letters

Resume Summary Generator

Resume Bullet Generator

Resume Skills Generator

Tailor your resume to jobs

Job Tailored Resumes

Resume Keyword Scanner

Job Keyword Finder

Organize your search

Job Tracker

Contact Tracker

Interview Tracker

Job Search Metrics

Speed up your search

Job Application Autofill

Chrome Extension

• For Organizations
• University Career Centers
• Career Coaches
• Workforce Development
• Outplacement
• Affiliate Program

Targeted Resume

Beautiful, perfectly job-tailored resumes designed to make you stand out, built 10x faster with the power of AI.

• For Organizations University Career Centers Career Coaches Bootcamps Workforce Development Outplacement Affiliate Program
• Sign up for free

Interview Questions

50 Interview Questions About Problem Solving (With Answers)

Problems often arise at work. Can you solve them? Here are 50 interview questions about problem solving to know about.

March 22, 2024

Working in a company, you’ll be tasked with projects to work on that solve problems. Maybe you’ll need to solve a problem to help achieve a specific goal or create a solution to a problem that helps your business’ customers. Either way, problem solving is an important skill in the workplace. This post will include 50 interview questions about problem solving with answers to help you prepare for these types of interviews.

Get more interview questions. Sign up for Huntr to access interview questions tailored to the job you're applying for.

What is problem solving?

Problem solving is a critical soft skill that involves identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues or obstacles effectively and efficiently. It encompasses a series of steps including understanding the problem, brainstorming potential solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each option, and implementing the most viable solution. Problem solving is not only about finding quick fixes but also about foreseeing potential challenges and addressing them proactively. It requires creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, making it a highly valued skill in personal and professional contexts alike. Whether it's navigating interpersonal conflicts, troubleshooting a technical issue, or overcoming logistical hurdles, adept problem solvers are equipped to tackle a wide array of challenges, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and improvement.

Why problem solving is important in the workplace

1. enhances adaptability.

In today's fast-paced work environment, the ability to engage in effective problem solving is crucial. It allows employees to adapt quickly to changes, challenges, and unexpected situations. By developing strong problem-solving skills, individuals can analyze issues, identify solutions, and implement strategies efficiently, ensuring the smooth operation of workplace processes.

2. Promotes Innovation

Problem-solving skills are the backbone of innovation within the workplace. When employees are equipped to tackle challenges creatively, they can generate novel ideas and solutions that drive the company forward. This skill not only aids in overcoming immediate obstacles but also contributes to the long-term development and competitiveness of the organization.

3. Improves Team Collaboration

Effective problem solving often requires a collaborative effort. When team members possess strong problem-solving skills, they can work together more effectively, sharing insights, and combining their expertise to find the best solutions. This not only leads to better outcomes but also fosters a culture of cooperation and mutual respect among colleagues, enhancing overall workplace morale and productivity.

5 Tips for Answering Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Problem-solving is a critical skill that employers look for in candidates across various industries. Demonstrating your ability to tackle challenges effectively can set you apart from other applicants. Here are five tips to help you showcase your problem-solving skills during an interview:

1. Use the STAR Method

Structure your responses using the Situation, Task, Action, and Result (STAR) method. Start by describing a specific situation or problem you encountered, outline the task you needed to accomplish, detail the actions you took to address the problem, and finish with the results of your efforts. This method helps you deliver a concise and compelling story that highlights your problem-solving prowess.

2. Highlight Your Analytical Skills

Employers want to see that you can analyze a situation and come up with a logical solution. When answering questions, talk about how you break down complex problems into manageable parts. Mention any tools or techniques you use, such as SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, or critical thinking strategies, to diagnose issues and develop solutions.

3. Show Adaptability

Problem-solving often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples of how you've had to adjust your approach when faced with new information or unforeseen challenges. This demonstrates your resilience and willingness to pivot your strategy to achieve the best outcome.

4. Emphasize Collaboration

Many problems are too complex for one person to solve alone. Talk about times when you've collaborated with others to tackle a challenge. Highlight your ability to listen to different perspectives, integrate feedback, and work as part of a team to find innovative solutions. This shows that you value diverse input and can leverage collective intelligence to overcome obstacles.

5. Reflect on Lessons Learned

Finally, don't shy away from discussing problems that didn't go as planned. Reflecting on what didn't work and what you learned from those experiences can be just as powerful as showcasing your successes. It demonstrates self-awareness, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Be sure to end on a positive note by explaining how these lessons have enhanced your problem-solving abilities moving forward.

By following these tips and preparing thoughtful, specific examples, you'll be able to convincingly demonstrate your problem-solving skills in your next interview. Remember, it's not just about the problems you've solved, but how you've solved them that will impress potential employers.

1. Can you describe a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem at work?

In a previous role, our company faced a significant customer dissatisfaction issue due to a software glitch that caused frequent service disruptions. As the project manager, I had to lead a cross-functional team to identify the root cause, develop a solution, and implement it swiftly to restore customer satisfaction. It involved collaborating with the IT team, customer support, and product development to conduct a thorough analysis, prioritize fixes, and communicate transparently with customers to manage expectations and regain trust.

2. How do you approach complex problems in your professional life?

I approach complex problems by first breaking them down into smaller manageable components to gain clarity on the issue. Then, I gather relevant data, analyze trends, and identify patterns to understand the underlying factors contributing to the problem. Collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds helps gain different perspectives and insights. I also prioritize actions based on urgency and impact, continuously evaluate progress, and adapt strategies as needed to achieve effective solutions.

3. What is your process for identifying the root cause of a problem?

My process for identifying the root cause involves asking probing questions, conducting thorough research, gathering data and feedback from stakeholders, analyzing trends and patterns, and using problem-solving techniques such as root cause analysis (RCA) or the "5 Whys" method. I focus on understanding the systemic issues rather than just addressing symptoms to ensure long-term solutions.

4. Can you give an example of a creative solution you've implemented to address a challenging issue?

In a project where budget constraints were hindering progress, I proposed implementing a lean approach by prioritizing essential features, streamlining workflows, and optimizing resource allocation. This creative solution allowed us to deliver key functionalities within budget and timeline constraints while maintaining quality and stakeholder satisfaction.

5. How do you prioritize problems that need to be solved?

I prioritize problems based on their impact on organizational goals, customer experience, urgency, and resource availability. I categorize issues into immediate, short-term, and long-term priorities, considering the potential risks and benefits of solving each problem. Regularly reassessing priorities ensures alignment with evolving business needs and strategic objectives.

6. What tools or methods do you typically use for problem-solving?

I utilize various problem-solving tools and methods depending on the complexity of the issue, including brainstorming sessions, fishbone diagrams, SWOT analysis, process mapping, data analytics, and project management software. Collaborative platforms and communication tools also facilitate effective teamwork and information sharing during problem-solving processes.

7. How do you involve others in the problem-solving process?

I involve others in the problem-solving process by fostering a culture of collaboration, open communication, and shared responsibility. This includes seeking input and perspectives from team members, encouraging diverse ideas and approaches, delegating tasks based on strengths, providing support and resources, facilitating brainstorming sessions or workshops, and recognizing contributions to promote a sense of ownership and accountability in problem-solving efforts.

8. Can you share an experience where you had to solve a problem under a tight deadline?

In a previous project, we faced a critical technical issue just days before a major product launch. The issue threatened the functionality of key features, risking customer satisfaction and revenue. To solve it, I organized a rapid-response team, conducted round-the-clock troubleshooting, prioritized tasks based on impact, and delegated responsibilities efficiently. Despite the tight deadline, we collaborated effectively, leveraged expertise from various departments, and implemented a temporary workaround to ensure a successful product launch. Post-launch, we continued refining the solution for a permanent fix.

9. How do you ensure that a solution is both effective and efficient?

I ensure that a solution is both effective and efficient by aligning it with predefined objectives and success criteria, conducting thorough analysis and testing, seeking feedback from stakeholders, and evaluating its impact on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cost, time, quality, and customer satisfaction. Continuous monitoring and iteration allow me to optimize the solution's efficiency while maintaining its effectiveness over time.

10. What is the biggest problem you have solved in your career?

One of the biggest problems I solved in my career was optimizing a supply chain process for a multinational company. The challenge involved reducing lead times, improving inventory management, and enhancing supplier relationships to meet growing customer demands and reduce costs. By implementing data-driven strategies, process improvements, and cross-functional collaboration, we achieved significant improvements in efficiency, cost savings, and customer service levels, contributing to the company's overall success.

11. How do you deal with uncertainty when solving problems?

When faced with uncertainty, I adopt a structured approach by gathering relevant information, conducting scenario analysis, identifying potential risks and opportunities, and developing contingency plans. I also leverage past experiences, seek input from subject matter experts, and remain adaptable and open to alternative solutions. Clear communication, ongoing evaluation, and agile decision-making help navigate uncertainty effectively and mitigate potential impacts.

12. Can you describe a time when you had to solve a problem without all the necessary information?

In a project where critical data was unavailable due to technical issues, I had to make decisions and implement solutions based on limited information. To address this challenge, I leveraged available data, conducted qualitative analysis, consulted with experts, and communicated transparently with stakeholders about the uncertainties and risks involved. Despite the constraints, we managed to implement a temporary solution and later refined it based on additional insights and data.

13. How do you measure the success of a solution?

I measure the success of a solution by defining clear metrics and KPIs aligned with the problem's objectives and desired outcomes. This includes assessing factors such as cost savings, time efficiency, quality improvement, customer satisfaction, revenue generation, and impact on organizational goals. Regular performance monitoring, data analysis, feedback collection, and stakeholder evaluations help track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the solution delivers measurable benefits.

14. What do you do if your initial solution to a problem fails?

If my initial solution to a problem fails, I conduct a thorough analysis to understand the root cause of the failure, gather feedback from stakeholders, and reassess the problem and its context. I then iterate and refine the solution, incorporating lessons learned, alternative approaches, and additional insights to develop a more effective and robust solution. Continuous improvement, flexibility, and resilience are key elements in overcoming setbacks and achieving successful outcomes.

15. How do you adapt your problem-solving strategies in a rapidly changing environment?

In a rapidly changing environment, I adapt my problem-solving strategies by staying informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and market dynamics. I prioritize agility, collaboration, and innovation, regularly reassessing priorities, adjusting strategies, and leveraging emerging tools and methodologies to address evolving challenges effectively. Flexibility, quick decision-making, and a proactive approach to change enable me to navigate uncertainties and drive successful problem resolution.

16. Can you give an example of a time when you had to use data analysis for problem-solving?

In a marketing campaign analysis project, we noticed a significant drop in conversion rates for a particular segment of our target audience. To identify the underlying issue, I conducted a detailed data analysis using customer demographics, behavior patterns, and campaign performance metrics. By correlating data points and conducting A/B testing, we discovered that the drop in conversion was due to a mismatch between the messaging in the campaign and the preferences of that specific audience segment. This data-driven insight allowed us to adjust our marketing strategy effectively and improve conversion rates.

17. How do you differentiate between symptoms and root causes of a problem?

To differentiate between symptoms and root causes of a problem, I employ techniques such as the "5 Whys" method, root cause analysis, and process mapping. By asking probing questions and digging deeper into the factors contributing to the problem, I can identify underlying causes rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms. This approach ensures that solutions target the root of the problem, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

18. Can you discuss a time when you had to solve a problem collaboratively with a team?

In a product development project, we encountered challenges related to compatibility issues between different software components, leading to performance issues and customer complaints. To address this, I facilitated collaborative problem-solving sessions with cross-functional teams, including developers, QA testers, and product managers. Through open communication, brainstorming, and sharing of expertise, we identified the root causes, developed a coordinated action plan, and implemented solutions that resolved the compatibility issues, improving product performance and customer satisfaction.

19. How do you handle feedback on your problem-solving efforts?

I value feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. When receiving feedback on my problem-solving efforts, I actively listen, seek to understand perspectives, and appreciate constructive criticism. I use feedback to reflect on my approach, identify areas for enhancement, and incorporate suggestions into future problem-solving endeavors. Embracing feedback fosters continuous learning, enhances problem-solving skills, and contributes to achieving better outcomes.

20. What role does critical thinking play in your problem-solving process?

Critical thinking is integral to my problem-solving process as it enables me to analyze situations objectively, evaluate information, identify patterns, and make informed decisions. By applying logical reasoning, sound judgment, and evidence-based analysis, I can discern between relevant and irrelevant data, assess risks, consider alternative solutions, and anticipate potential outcomes. Critical thinking enhances problem-solving effectiveness by promoting thoroughness, accuracy, and strategic decision-making.

21. How do you stay motivated when faced with a complex problem?

When faced with a complex problem, I stay motivated by breaking the problem down into manageable tasks, setting realistic goals, and focusing on incremental progress. I maintain a positive mindset, leverage my problem-solving skills and past successes, seek support and collaboration from colleagues or mentors, and celebrate small victories along the way. Staying organized, maintaining a clear vision of the desired outcome, and reminding myself of the impact of solving the problem keep me motivated and determined to overcome challenges.

22. Can you describe a situation where you had to change your approach to solve a problem effectively?

In a project involving customer feedback analysis, my initial approach focused solely on quantitative data analysis to identify trends and patterns. However, I realized that the qualitative aspect of customer feedback, such as sentiments and specific comments, provided valuable insights that were missed in the quantitative analysis alone. To address this, I changed my approach by integrating qualitative data analysis techniques, such as sentiment analysis and thematic coding, into the process. This holistic approach led to a more comprehensive understanding of customer perceptions and facilitated more targeted problem-solving strategies.

23. How do you balance the need for quick solutions with the need for thorough problem-solving?

Balancing the need for quick solutions with thorough problem-solving involves prioritizing tasks based on urgency and impact. For urgent issues requiring immediate resolution, I focus on quick, interim solutions to address critical aspects and mitigate immediate risks. Simultaneously, I allocate time and resources for in-depth analysis, root cause identification, and long-term solutions to prevent recurrence and optimize outcomes. Effective time management, clear prioritization, and strategic decision-making enable me to strike a balance between speed and thoroughness in problem-solving.

24. Can you discuss a time when you had to solve a problem with limited resources?

In a project where budget constraints limited our ability to hire additional staff, I faced the challenge of increasing operational efficiency without increasing costs. To address this, I conducted a thorough analysis of existing processes, identified inefficiencies, and proposed automation solutions using available software tools. By leveraging technology and optimizing workflows, we were able to streamline operations, reduce manual tasks, and improve productivity without exceeding the budget.

25. What strategies do you use to prevent problems from occurring in the first place?

Proactive problem prevention involves risk assessment, continuous monitoring, and implementing preventive measures. I regularly conduct risk assessments to identify potential issues, develop contingency plans, and implement controls to mitigate risks. Additionally, I emphasize continuous improvement, encourage open communication within teams, and promote a culture of accountability and learning from past experiences to prevent recurring problems.

26. How do you communicate complex problems (and solutions) to stakeholders who may not be familiar with the details?

When communicating complex problems and solutions to stakeholders, I use a structured approach that involves breaking down technical information into easily understandable concepts. I focus on highlighting the impact, benefits, and relevance of the problem and proposed solutions to the stakeholders' interests and objectives. Utilizing visual aids, such as charts, graphs, and diagrams, helps clarify complex information, facilitate discussions, and ensure stakeholders grasp key points effectively.

27. Can you share an example of a time when you solved a problem that significantly benefited your organization?

In a cost optimization initiative, I identified inefficiencies in supply chain management that were leading to increased procurement costs and delayed deliveries. By analyzing data, negotiating contracts with vendors, and implementing process improvements, we streamlined supply chain operations, reduced procurement costs by 20%, and improved delivery timelines. This solution not only saved the organization substantial resources but also enhanced operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

28. How do you incorporate feedback into your problem-solving process?

Incorporating feedback into the problem-solving process is essential for continuous improvement. I actively seek feedback from stakeholders, team members, and subject matter experts throughout the problem-solving journey. I analyze feedback to identify areas for enhancement, consider alternative perspectives and solutions, and iteratively refine strategies based on input received. Regular feedback loops ensure that solutions are well-informed, aligned with stakeholder expectations, and optimized for effectiveness.

29. What is the most unconventional problem-solving method you’ve successfully used?

In a project where traditional problem-solving methods were insufficient, I applied design thinking principles to generate innovative solutions. By conducting empathy interviews, brainstorming sessions, and prototyping ideas, we identified creative solutions that addressed user needs more effectively. This unconventional approach led to breakthrough solutions that significantly improved user experience and product performance.

30. How do you ensure that your solution aligns with the overall goals of your organization?

Aligning solutions with organizational goals involves understanding strategic objectives, engaging stakeholders, and evaluating solutions based on their impact on key performance indicators. I ensure alignment by conducting thorough analyses, seeking input from relevant stakeholders, and assessing how proposed solutions contribute to organizational priorities, such as cost reduction, revenue growth, customer satisfaction, or market expansion. Regular alignment checks and feedback loops help validate that solutions remain aligned with overarching goals.

31. Can you describe a problem you solved that had a positive impact on your team’s performance?

In a team performance improvement project, I identified communication barriers and lack of collaboration as key challenges impacting productivity. I implemented team-building activities, fostered a culture of open communication and collaboration, and facilitated regular feedback sessions. These interventions resulted in improved teamwork, enhanced morale, and increased productivity, leading to measurable performance improvements and positive outcomes for the team and organization.

32. How do you decide when to tackle a problem on your own or to seek help?

I assess the complexity, urgency, and impact of the problem to determine whether I can address it independently or if seeking help is necessary. If the problem requires specialized expertise, collaboration, or resources beyond my capabilities, I proactively seek assistance to ensure efficient and effective problem-solving. I prioritize transparency and open communication to foster a collaborative problem-solving approach.

33. How do you keep track of multiple problems that need to be solved at the same time?

To manage multiple problems simultaneously, I utilize organization tools such as task lists, project management software, and prioritization techniques. I categorize problems based on urgency, importance, and dependencies, establish clear timelines and milestones for each, and regularly review progress to adjust priorities as needed. Effective delegation, communication, and collaboration with team members also contribute to successful management of multiple problem-solving efforts.

34. Can you explain how you evaluate potential solutions to a problem?

When evaluating potential solutions, I consider factors such as feasibility, effectiveness, cost, impact, and alignment with objectives. I conduct thorough analyses, gather relevant data and insights, assess risks and benefits, and compare alternative solutions based on predefined criteria. I prioritize solutions that are practical, sustainable, and aligned with strategic goals, and I seek input from stakeholders and subject matter experts to ensure comprehensive evaluation and informed decision-making.

35. How do you deal with resistance when implementing a solution?

Addressing resistance during solution implementation requires effective communication, stakeholder engagement, and change management strategies. I proactively communicate the rationale behind the solution, its benefits, and the expected outcomes to gain buy-in and mitigate resistance. I listen to concerns, address objections, and involve stakeholders in the decision-making process to foster ownership and collaboration. I also provide support, training, and feedback mechanisms to facilitate smooth adoption and implementation of the solution.

36. Can you describe a time when you had to solve a problem outside of your area of expertise?

In a cross-functional project, I encountered a technical issue that required expertise beyond my domain. Recognizing the challenge, I collaborated with experts from relevant departments, sought their insights, and leveraged their knowledge to understand the problem thoroughly. By facilitating interdisciplinary discussions, conducting research, and learning from experts, I gained the necessary understanding to contribute effectively to problem-solving and drive successful outcomes for the project.

37. How do you ensure that your problem-solving efforts are inclusive and consider diverse perspectives?

Inclusive problem-solving involves valuing diverse perspectives, fostering open dialogue, and creating an environment where everyone's input is respected and considered. I actively seek input from team members with varying backgrounds, experiences, and expertise, encourage brainstorming sessions, and facilitate discussions that promote diverse viewpoints. I promote inclusivity by practicing active listening, empathy, and respect for different opinions, ensuring that solutions are comprehensive, innovative, and reflective of diverse perspectives.

38. Can you share a situation where you had to use emotional intelligence in problem-solving?

During a project with tight deadlines and high stakes, I encountered interpersonal conflicts among team members that were impacting productivity and morale. Recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence, I employed active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution skills to understand each team member's perspectives, address underlying issues, and foster a collaborative and supportive environment. By acknowledging emotions, managing conflicts constructively, and promoting effective communication, I successfully mitigated tensions, restored team cohesion, and achieved project objectives.

39. How do you manage stress and pressure when solving critical problems?

Managing stress and pressure during critical problem-solving involves prioritization, time management, self-care, and resilience-building strategies. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, break down complex problems into manageable steps, and set realistic expectations and timelines. I practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and time management, seek support from colleagues and mentors, and maintain a positive mindset to navigate challenges effectively and maintain focus on problem-solving objectives.

40. Can you explain a time when you had to prioritize long-term solutions over quick fixes?

In a previous project, we encountered recurring quality issues that required immediate attention. While quick fixes could address the immediate symptoms, I advocated for a comprehensive root cause analysis to identify underlying systemic issues. By prioritizing long-term solutions, we implemented process improvements, updated quality control measures, and provided training to team members. This approach not only resolved the immediate issues but also prevented future occurrences, leading to sustainable improvements and long-term success.

41. How do you adapt your problem-solving approach based on the audience or stakeholders involved?

Adapting problem-solving approaches involves understanding stakeholders' preferences, priorities, and communication styles. For technical audiences, I focus on data-driven analyses, detailed reports, and solution feasibility. When engaging non-technical stakeholders, I emphasize clear explanations, visual aids, and real-world examples to ensure understanding and alignment. I tailor communication channels, formats, and frequency to suit stakeholders' preferences, fostering collaboration, buy-in, and successful problem resolution.

42. Can you discuss a time when you had to use negotiation skills in problem-solving?

During a project negotiation, conflicting interests arose between departments regarding resource allocation and project timelines. To resolve the impasse, I facilitated negotiations by identifying common goals, exploring compromise options, and advocating for win-win solutions. Using active listening, empathy, and persuasive communication, I bridged differences, built consensus, and reached agreements that satisfied all parties' needs. This collaborative approach not only resolved conflicts but also strengthened relationships and promoted cooperation.

43. How do you incorporate new technologies or methodologies into your problem-solving toolkit?

Incorporating new technologies and methodologies into problem-solving requires continuous learning, experimentation, and adaptation. I stay updated on industry trends, attend training sessions, and seek opportunities to apply emerging technologies such as data analytics, automation, and AI in problem-solving. I collaborate with experts, conduct pilot projects, and evaluate results to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of new approaches. By embracing innovation, I enhance problem-solving capabilities, drive efficiencies, and deliver value to organizations.

44. Can you describe a time when your problem-solving led to innovation within your organization?

In a project focused on streamlining operations, I identified inefficiencies in existing processes and proposed innovative solutions leveraging digital tools and automation. By collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting workflow analyses, and piloting new technologies, we implemented streamlined workflows, reduced manual tasks, and improved efficiency. This innovation not only optimized operations but also enhanced employee productivity, customer satisfaction, and organizational competitiveness.

45. How do you ensure that your solutions are sustainable and environmentally friendly?

Ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions involves considering ecological impacts, resource conservation, and long-term viability. I prioritize sustainable practices such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly materials in solution design. I collaborate with sustainability experts, conduct lifecycle assessments, and integrate environmental considerations into decision-making processes. By promoting green initiatives, I contribute to environmental stewardship, corporate social responsibility, and positive societal impact through problem-solving efforts.

46. Can you share an example of a cross-functional problem you solved?

In a previous role, we faced a cross-functional challenge related to customer retention. The marketing team identified a decline in customer engagement, while the sales team noticed an increase in churn rates. Collaborating with both teams, I led a comprehensive analysis to identify root causes. We discovered that misaligned messaging between marketing campaigns and sales interactions was confusing customers. By implementing a unified communication strategy, aligning marketing messages with sales processes, and enhancing customer touchpoints, we improved customer satisfaction, reduced churn rates, and increased revenue.

47. How do you mentor others in developing their problem-solving skills?

Mentoring others in problem-solving involves providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for skill development. I mentor by sharing my problem-solving experiences, providing frameworks, and encouraging critical thinking. I offer constructive feedback, challenge assumptions, and encourage diverse perspectives to foster creativity and innovation. I also create learning opportunities such as workshops, case studies, and collaborative projects to help mentees apply problem-solving techniques in real-world scenarios and enhance their skills over time.

48. Can you describe a situation where you had to overcome significant obstacles to solve a problem?

In a complex project, we encountered unforeseen technical challenges that threatened project timelines and deliverables. Despite initial setbacks and resource constraints, I led the team in brainstorming sessions, leveraging expertise from various departments, and exploring alternative solutions. We overcame obstacles by fostering collaboration, adopting agile methodologies, and prioritizing problem-solving efforts. Through perseverance, resilience, and adaptability, we successfully resolved technical issues, met project milestones, and delivered high-quality outcomes.

49. How do you balance logic and intuition in your problem-solving process?

Balancing logic and intuition in problem-solving involves leveraging analytical thinking and creative insights. I start by gathering data, analyzing facts, and applying logical frameworks to understand the problem's scope and complexity. Then, I tap into intuition by brainstorming ideas, exploring unconventional approaches, and considering potential outcomes from different perspectives. I combine rational decision-making with gut instincts, test hypotheses, and validate solutions to ensure effectiveness and innovation in problem-solving.

50. Can you discuss a time when you had to revisit and revise a solution based on new information or outcomes?

In a strategic initiative, we implemented a new process to streamline operations and improve efficiency. However, after implementation, we noticed unexpected challenges and suboptimal results. Recognizing the need for continuous improvement, I initiated a review process, gathered feedback from stakeholders, and conducted performance evaluations. Based on new insights and outcomes, we revisited the initial solution, identified areas for enhancement, and revised the process to address gaps and achieve desired outcomes effectively. This iterative approach ensured that our solutions remained adaptive, responsive, and aligned with evolving needs and objectives.

Get More Interviews, Faster

Huntr streamlines your job search. Instantly craft tailored resumes and cover letters, fill out application forms with a single click, effortlessly keep your job hunt organized, and much more...

or learn more

Next-Generation Job Tailored Resumes

Huntr provides the most advanced job <> resume matching system in the world. Helping you match not only keywords, but responsibilities and qualifications from a job, into your resume.

Job Keyword Extractor + Resume AI Integration

Huntr extracts keywords from job descriptions and helps you integrate them into your resume using the power of AI.

Application Autofill

Save hours of mindless form filling. Use our chrome extension to fill application forms with a single click.

Move beyond basic, bare-bones job trackers. Elevate your search with Huntr's all-in-one, feature-rich management platform.

Perfectly tailored cover letters, in seconds! Our cover letter generator blends your unique background with the job's specific requirements, resulting in unique, standout cover letters.

Huntr checks your resume for spelling, length, impactful use of metrics, repetition and more, ensuring your resume gets noticed by employers.

Gorgeous Resume Templates

Stand out with one of 7 designer-grade templates. Whether you're a creative spirit or a corporate professional, our range of templates caters to every career aspiration.

Personal Job Search CRM

The ultimate companion for managing your professional job-search contacts and organizing your job search outreach.

How to Prepare for Technical Interviews – Problem-Solving Tips + Mindset Tricks to Get You Ready

Hi everyone! In this article we're going to talk a bit about technical interviews. I'll share a few tips that, based on my experience, might help you go through these interviews successfully.

I originally wrote this article more than a year ago, before getting my first job offer as a developer.

I'm sharing this with you now because I recently went through another interview process. And I found that the same concepts and thoughts that helped me get my first job offer allowed me to pass all the interviews successfully again. 🙂

My Background

I took up coding more or less a year ago. I started learning out of pure curiosity, and as I learned more about it and was able to build personal projects, I just fell in love with it.

I got so obsessed and passionate about it that I dedicated all the free time I had to coding, reading about code, watching videos about code, and just learning as much as I possible could, because for me it was fun and interesting!

Time passed and at a point I started imagining myself working as a developer. First it was like a blurry thought, and then I started thinking about it seriously and learning about what I needed to do to get to that point.

My learning journey and the approach I took towards becoming a dev will probably be the subject of another article, but my point is that I made it! I recently got an offer for my first job as a full time developer and I couldn’t be happier about it.

And there were many things and learning experiences I had to go through to get to this point, but I’d say the toughest one – and the one I was less prepared for – was technical interviews.

What are Technical Interviews Like?

I come from a social sciences background, and most of the time, within that field, there’s nothing too “technical” to talk about during interviews. Employers normally hire you based on your experience and behavior during interviews.

But in the coding field it’s really different. Experience is valuable, of course, but employers also value projects you can show to them, theoretical knowledge about different programming topics, and, most of all, the problem solving skills you can show off during technical interviews.

In almost all selection processes I went through, there was a technical interview in which an interviewer tossed me a problem and I had to solve it live with them looking at me the whole time.

This is a standard practice for coding jobs, but I wasn’t prepared at all. I failed miserably more than once, and these experiences were some of the most embarrassing and frustrating moments in my professional life so far.

At times I felt stupid for even thinking I’d be capable of switching careers at almost 30. I thought I just wasn’t smart enough. But luckily I kept going, researched about technical interviews, learned, practiced, and kept failing until I didn’t fail anymore.

Technical interviews are tough and can be really stressful if you’re not prepared correctly. Also, even though I successfully passed a selection process, I know I still have a lot to learn about this and that I’ll need to perfect this skill to further grow my career in the future. So here are my main tips for nailing your technical interviews.

1. Prepare for the Interview

This is important for all kind of interviews, but for technical interviews I think it’s crucial. Your chances of passing these evaluations are way lower if you don’t prepare correctly for them.

Here are some ideas that allowed me to better prepare for these interviews.

Do Your Research

Find out about technical interviews in general, how are they normally organized, what interviewers ask and what do they intend to measure, what kind of problems do companies toss at you, and what are the best approaches towards interviews.

The internet is an infinite resource of knowledge, so don’t waste it! Google about everything you can and take advantage of the experience of the thousands of people who have gone through similar situations and share their experiences.

Practice Solving Problems

Problem solving is a skill just like any other. There is specific knowledge you’ll need to get good at it, but most of it is practice and getting your brain to be comfortable in that situation.

There are tons of websites that contain the types of problems you’ll see during interviews. freeCodeCamp has an amazing course designed for this. Some other cool resources are hackerrank.com , leetcode.com , codewars.com , exercism.io , app.codesignal.com , and algoexpert.io .

Solve as many problems as you can from any of these sites and you’ll start getting good at them.

And when you practice, at first it’s okay to just worry about solving the problem. But once you get comfortable enough, a great idea is to try to make your practice as similar as possible to an actual interview. And by this I mean setting a timer, explaining your solution out loud, analyzing your final algorithm and refactoring…just basically following all the steps you’d normally follow in an actual interview.

If your practice is similar to the actual situation, once you get to that situation you’ll feel more confident because in some way you’ve already been there.

Build a Theoretical Foundation

Besides actually practicing, learning theoretical concepts about algorithms and data structures is a great idea to get better at solving these problems.

Think about it as adding tools to your toolbox. The more tools and concepts you have in your mind, the more problems will sound familiar or ring a bell in your brain, and from that you'll be more able to arrive at a solution.

There are many resources on the internet, some free and some paid. A course about data structures and algorithms is pretty much a must for any programmer, so I encourage you to find a good one. Here are a couple you can start with:

• Data Structures Explained
• Learn Data Structures from a Google Engineer
• Learn Algorithms and Data Structures in Python
• Learn about Algorithms and Data Structures

Of course also theoretical knowledge about your programming language of choice and any other tools in your stack (frameworks, libraries, databases, and so on) is also very important.

Imitate Others

It’s ok to run into problems you don’t know how to solve or to come up with solutions that are not the best suited ones.

In these type of situations, or always actually, it’s a good idea to take a look at how other people solved that same problem and learn from them. What approach did they take? What ideas did they have? Did they get stuck? How did they move towards the solution?

Analyze their solution and their behavior, identify what works for them, think if that could work for you and if the answer is yes, copy them! It’s crucial that you deeply understand why their solution works and how their logic works. You want to internalize the logical approach, not the code, as that’s just an after effect.

Looking at problem solutions and videos of mock interviews is a good idea to get this kind of data.

Understand What Kind of Interview You'll Have

I mentioned the most classic type of technical interview is the one based on algorithms and data structures, in which the interviewer will give you a problem to solve through an algorithm.

But I found that there're also interviews that are mostly theoretical, in the sense that the interviewer will ask questions to measure your knowledge about a given programming language, framework, library, design and architecture patterns, and so on.

Another kind of interview is where the interviewer shows you an actual project or asks you to build one. During the interview you discuss the decisions you made to build it or implement new features/modifications on it.

Each kind of interview is different and might require different preparation, so it's always a good idea to ask the company what will the interview be based on, and prepare accordingly.

2. Breathe and Think Things Through

Once you've seen and gone through a ton of examples and start feeling somewhat confident around coding problems, it’s time to get to the deeper stuff.

Here are some tips that helped me go through the interviews successfully.

This sounds crazy right? The best approach to solving most coding problems is actually not coding, or at least not right away .

No matter how anxious or secure you are about the idea you have in mind, I find it better to always take a step back and make sure you understand things deeply before going to the details and breaking out the code.

So how do you do that?

Understand the Problem

The first step to solving a problem is actually understanding it. And to understand it, the best idea is to “make it yours”, and internalize it.

A good idea is to read the exercise twice, repeat it again in your own words, and go through multiple examples (simple ones, complex ones, examples with null or invalid inputs…).

No matter how silly, complex or simple the problem may seem, this helps you make sure you understand it properly and gives your brain data and time to come up with solution ideas.

Make Sure You Understood It

Repetitive? Yeah, but effective. Check and make sure you understood what you need to do and how your function will work.

Ask yourself, what are the inputs going to be? What will be the output? Check for edge cases. Will you always receive the same input or could you expect different formats? Do you have to be prepared for strange cases or does the exercise restrict the kind of situation you’ll encounter?

It’s better to clear out all this things before even starting to think about a solution.

Explore Your Toolbox

I said that learning theoretical concepts and practicing is like adding tools to your problem solving toolbox. When you see a new problem, it’s a good idea to explore that toolbox and see if any of the concepts or solutions you’ve used in the past could work here.

Could it help to use some sort of counter? What about implementing some sort of data structure to help you out? Could you use pointers or a sliding window? Would it be a good idea to take a divide and conquer approach? What about recursion? Could sorting the input help for anything?

You don’t necessarily have to know the exact path to take, but comparing the problem to previous patterns you’ve seen can help spark ideas in your mind.

Of course the more you practice solving problems and learning about possible solutions, the more patterns you’ll have to remember and compare.

Break Down the Problem

Once you’ve analyzed the problem deeply, hopefully you’ll have at least an idea of how to tackle it, or where to start.

A great idea here is to try to think about the different steps you need to take to get to your solution and write down those steps to analyze them, check if your logic is correct, and later use them as little memory helpers and “instructions” for you to translate into code.

Simplifying your solution through steps and specially writing them down will often help you identify flaws in your logic or cases you didn’t think about before.

This is great because you’re at a stage when it’s really easy to modify your approach or lean towards a different idea. You didn’t waste time coding or getting yourself into a maze of logic that doesn’t actually work.

Simplify the Problem

Specially when facing complex and difficult problems, a good idea is to first ignore the main difficulty of the problem and try to solve a similar, simpler version of it.

When you nail that solution, bring the main difficulty back and see if you can translate your solution to it.

Visualize the Problem

Complex problems are sometimes difficult to get your head around. Having a whiteboard, either a physical or a digital one, is always a great idea.

Visually stimulating your brain by drawing up the problem or an idea can be a good approach to buy yourself some time and see if that perspective shows you some data you didn’t notice.

Start to Write Your Code

So once you have a clear idea of the steps you’ll need to cover to get to the solution, it’s time for translating that into code. This should be the simple part if you’re comfortable enough with the language.

A thought to keep in mind here is that if you can’t remember something very specific, don’t let that hold you down – pseudo code it and carry on with the rest of the solution.

Talk to your interviewer and see if they can help you with that part, or ask if they'll let you Google it. In most cases this will be ok and the important thing will be to show that you nailed the correct logic to solve the problem.

Test Your Code

Test your solution at every step and at the end. There’s nothing more annoying than writing a ton of code and later seeing it fail without knowing the exact cause.

Test your code and your logic at every step of the solution, as this will allow you to catch bugs earlier and will save you from wasting time and effort.

Of course testing at the end is important to check if your solution actually works! So throw your function different inputs and edge cases to see if it behaves as expected.

Analyze the Solution

Once you've gotten to the solution, you’re not done yet. It’s a great idea to show your interviewer you can analyze what you did too.

Ask yourself and tell them, what’s the big O complexity of your solution? Can you think of a way to improve the performance or the memory usage of your algorithm? Is there a way to make your function easier to read and understand?

Even if you can’t think about how to code it exactly, it’s great to show them that you’re the kind of developer who is always going to look for improvements and not settle for something that just works.

Improve Your Solution

Of course, if you can find ways to optimize your solution and know how to code it, do it!

And about this, in a coding interview situation you’ll rarely come up with the perfect solution for a problem. You’re under pressure and on the clock, so it’s perfectly ok to come up with a so-so solution and then refactor it until it reaches an acceptable level.

It’s often better to show you can solve the problem even if not in the perfect way than spend all your time just thinking about the perfect solution.

Talk to Your Interviewer

Talk with your interviewer during the whole process. What your interviewer is trying to measure is your problem solving ability and your level of comfort with your programming language of choice.

That is a hard thing to measure if you don’t open your mouth and just code away.

It’s crucial that you talk to your interviewer and let them know what you’re thinking, what is your thought process, what ideas are you having, how are you understanding the problem, what logic are you going to follow with your solution and why are you making decisions.

Talk to them, ask questions, explain yourself, and if you get stuck or don’t know how to go on, explain to them exactly the thing that is giving you trouble. In most cases you’ll get some help and more importantly you’ll show them you’re actually trying to work towards a solution.

Listen to Your Interviewer

When you’re being given the problem to solve – and specially if you get tips or feedback from your interviewers – pay attention! No matter if you think you already have the best idea or if there’s something that’s driving you crazy and need to solve right now, just drop it and listen to what you’re being told.

If you don’t listen to feedback, you’re giving a very negative signal to your possible future employers. Think about it: would you like to work with someone that doesn’t listen to feedback? Besides, feedback will certainly help you solve your problem, so listen!

3. Control Your Emotions

This for me was the toughest part of the interviewing process, and it's something I didn’t really find a lot of information about when researching technical interviews.

Dealing with the anxiety and frustration these situations can provoke is hard, but also a crucial step to improve your performance.

So here are some things that have helped me in this regard.

Prepare Your Body and Mind

Interviews are stressful situations in which you have to deal with expectations and perform to reach those expectations while being judged by other people.

I’ve always felt uncomfortable in these type of situations so I’m quite familiar with the type of anxiety you might feel.

Something that helps me is try to think about it like the moment of a game for a sports player or when actors get out on stage. You normally see these people trying to warm up and focus before they start to perform, right? There’s a reason for that – and it’s that this preparation actually enhances performance and gets you ready to give your best.

It may sound stupid at first, but stretching, warming up your voice, meditating, imagining the moment in your mind and picturing yourself being successful in the moment are all things that will push you towards doing nicely in this important moment.

Be Confident

Easier said than done, right? Absolutely. Confidence for most people isn’t something you can just turn off and on, but something you build along the way and comes with lots of practice, studying, and preparation behind it.

You'll build confidence with the work you do prior to the interview, but once you’re in the moment it’s important to remember that you want to show the interviewers you have confidence in yourself as a coder and that you trust yourself to solve any problem you face.

This doesn’t mean you have to know absolutely everything and be able to solve any complex problem absolutely by yourself. Rather, it means that you won’t panic when you face something you don’t know how to solve at first, and that you have the ability to slowly analyze the problem, break it down, and work towards a solution.

Stress, anxiety, and the wish to show that you can solve the problem can make you rush more than you need to. And rushing can lead to missing key information, flaws in your logic, bugs in your code, and errors in general.

So take your time, actually, take more time than you actually need. Analyze the heck out of the problem, talk slowly, code slowly, think slowly, and remember to breath. Things are easier to deal with when you take your time and slow-mo the process.

Don’t Take it Personally – or Do...

You’ll mess up at some point, that’s a certainty. Especially in your first interviews, you’ll probably fail and feel miserable about it. It’s just the way it is, and it's a step that is needed for you to understand where you need to improve.

A key issue here is how you deal with that frustration. I could tell you to think about it as a process, to not get mad when you fail, to be patient… But if you’re an anxious and self demanding person as I am, you’ll be very frustrated when you fail, and there’s nothing you can do to avoid it.

But how do you deal with that? Do you get depressed and quit coding forever? Do you get scared of interviews and never apply for a job ever again?

Personally, I get very mad at myself when I fail at something or find out I don’t know something I "was supposed" to know. I get mad at myself for not preparing correctly or for missing things, and even though that anger feels bad at first, later on is something that pushes me forward.

I feel so bad about it that I make absolutely sure I won't fail at that again, and I practice as hard as I can to avoid being in that situation again.

Different approaches work for different people, but the thing is to handle your emotions in a way that pushes you forward and not backwards.

Learn from Your Mistakes

As it’s a certainty you’ll mess up, the smart thing to do is to learn from the errors you made and try to not make them again.

Always try to take note of the problems you were presented and your solutions, analyze your mistakes, analyze other possible approaches you could have taken, what optimizations you didn’t see, and what key concepts you didn’t remember at that moment.

Also always ask your interviewers for feedback about what you could have done better. This information is gold if you get the best of it.

If you love coding, you probably have lots of fun doing it. Never forget that, no matter the context.

In interviews, try to approach each problem with curiosity rather than fear of failing. Try to show your interviewers you’re enthusiastic about problems, because you’re probably going to work with similar stuff on a daily basis.

Plus if you’re having fun and thinking in a positive way, you’ll be more relaxed and your mind will be clearer, which of course helps your problem solving skills.

If you pass or if you fail, at the end it doesn’t matter, in the sense that your approach and behavior should stay the same.

Just as code can always be improved, so can you as a programmer. You should always keep learning, keep getting better, keep practicing, keep facing stuff you didn’t know anything about and eventually overcoming it.

So don’t get too high if you pass or too low if you miss – just keep coding and keep learning.

As always, I hope you enjoyed the article and learned something new. If you want, you can also follow me on LinkedIn or Twitter .

See you later!

I'm a fullstack dev (javascript | typescript | react | node | AWS) and computer engineering student. Here I write about the things I learn along my path to becoming the best developer I can be.

If you read this far, thank the author to show them you care. Say Thanks

Learn to code for free. freeCodeCamp's open source curriculum has helped more than 40,000 people get jobs as developers. Get started

• InterviewPenguin.com – Your best job interview coach since 2011

Interview questions answered: Describe a situation in which you’ve applied technical skills to solve a problem

Technical skills can mean a lot of things –to be able to repair a computer, to assemble a piece of furniture in the room, to use some heavy tools such as pneumatic drillers, or even to write a piece of code in a programming language. Hiring managers can have a lot of things on their mind, and you should always opt for an example fitting for the job you try to get with the company. That means talking about a problem you can face in your new job , or at least one which helped you to learn some skill or process you can benefit from in your new job.

Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to the question. I tried to include on my list example from different job fields , as well as answers for people who lack any previous working experience . You will find on my list also one or two unconventional answers, and I hope you will find at least one answer you can adjust and use in your upcoming interviews. Do not forget to read also the notes below the list of answers, for additional hints and explanations .

7 sample answers to “Describe a situation in which you’ve applied technical skills to solve a problem” interview question

• It happened to me just two weeks ago. My son bought some new furniture to his apartment , and asked me to come and help and assemble it, because, as it is always the case, it came disassembled to the smallest parts possible. But we faced one problem– the manual was incomplete , missing two pages. Hence I had to improvise, and use my imagination and years of technical experience to understand which screw went where, and how we should connect and glue different pieces together to make sure that we get the desired outcome. And I must tell you that I’ve enjoyed the process immensely . Because while it is nice to follow an easy guide and get the job done quickly, it is also good to strain your mental capacities once in a while , and see that you still have the skill to solve some technical issue on your own, without following the manuals.
• I’ve done that on a daily basis in my last job in technical support . People were calling me with problems with their devices, and more often than not, I tried to troubleshoot them distantly . Which is often more difficult as it seems, because they often cannot describe the problem properly , and may struggle to follow your instructions. But I had a success rate of 90% , which means that I managed to address nine out of ten tickets without a need to forward the issue to a senior technician. I believe that it demonstrates my technical skills, but also my excellent communication skills , because in desktop support you won’t succeed to do much without being able to communicate clearly the issue with the customer…

* Special Tip : This isn’t the only difficult question you will face while interviewing for any decent job. You will face questions about prioritization, dealing with pressure, dealing with ambiguity , and other tricky scenarios that happen in the workplace. If you want to make sure that you stand out with your answers and outclass your competitors, have a look at our Interview Success Package . Up to 10 premium answers to 31 tricky scenario based questions (+ more) will make your life much easier in the interviews. Thank you for checking it out!

• I can remember a good example from my last corporate job . I was working on a technical aspect of a marketing campaign, trying to set the conversion tracking properly . But we’ve worked with different traffic sources and tracking pixels, and were using a new robust tracking software I’ve had no experience with . The software offered incredible customization and plenty of parameters, but it was difficult to set it up properly , or to even understand for the first time user. However, I benefited greatly from my skills with other tracking software and platforms, and eventually, after three days of testing and hard work , I set the system up properly, to track the conversions and a lot of details of the journey of each customer, which helped my employer immensely.
• I’ve demonstrated them just yesterday, repairing a flat screen TV back home . You know how they make the electronics nowadays, don’t you? Things are made to break after a couple of years , with manufactures inserting a “weak link” to each product, such as a weak battery, or a part that will wear out just after the warranty ends and cannot be replaced easily, and a typical customer won’t do it. With TV screens, the weak part is often the capacitor . And so instead of wasting $400 for a new TV set , I opened the old one, found the broken capacitor, found the same model online for $5, ordered two pieces, and replaced it back home few days later. The TV works again, and I am glad that I can benefit from my technical skills in real life situations, saving money along the way.
• I think that the best demonstration of my technical skills is the house I live in at the moment . I’ve built it on my own, with a bunch of friends, over two long summers. You know, it is not the easiest thing to do, and I didn’t study construction at school . But luckily you can find great tutorials for almost everything online . And when you have a technician in you, you will understand the instructions, and have a capacity to follow them, and make something happen. Without a doubt my house isn’t the most modern or the most beautiful house in the area. But I’ve built it with my own hands, which give me a sense of satisfaction, and also a confidence that I’ll do well working for your construction company .
• The simple mobile app I developed is a great demonstration of how I used technical skills to solve a problem. Because developing an app, you face a lot of problems . The code breaks, things do not work as expected, and you have to look for that one mistake you made , to make it work again. I’ve managed to do it repeatedly, with my knowledge of Python, Ruby, and JavaScript . I hope I can benefit from it in the new job I try to get with you.
• I’m yet to face such a problem in my short professional career. I mean, I’ve worked as a financial analyst up to this point, and though I faced plenty of problems and challenges in the job, they were not of a technical nature . Having said that, I believe to have a technician in me , someone who can solve tricky puzzles and who can thrive in the process. And that’s exactly why I am applying for a job or a process analyst with you, because in my view it is more technical than the job of a financial analyst. And I cannot wait to use my skills to solve some technical problems, and help you improve the productivity in the plant.

Show enthusiasm for dealing with problems

Obviously nobody likes problems. At the same time, however, problems and challenges help us grow , both as technicians and as people. It is when we face the unknown and have to dig deep to solve a problem when we learn the most, and become better in our field. And that’s exactly the attitude you should show in the interviews.

It doesn’t matter if you talk about repairing a TV set back home, or about solving a complicated programming puzzle in your last job. Show some pride and satisfaction in the process, and ensure them that you, at least somehow, enjoy applying your technical skills to solve difficult problems .

Bridge the situation with your job application, if you can

The best possible answer is the one in which you bridge your experience with solving a difficult problem, and the job you try to get in the interview. For example, you troubleshooted your own mobile phone back home and now you apply for a job in a place that specializes in troubleshooting phones, or other small electronic devices.

Or you’ve managed to build your own house (or at least you participated on the construction works), and now you try to get some job in construction, or design. The connection does not always have to be obvious to either you, or the interviewers, but you can always at least try to describe it in a way that they can see some connection.

And if it is not possible, you can at least say that you believe that your excellent technical skills and intelligence (which the example you narrated demonstrates) will help you to handle your new job, and the technical problems you will face as a part of it…

Ready to answer this one? I hope so! Do not forget to check also 7 sample answers to other tricky interview questions:

• Describe your experience working in a fast-paced environment.
• Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to the problem.
• Tell us about a time when you had a simple solution to a complex problem .
• Recent Posts

© InterviewPenguin.com

Privacy Policy

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

Below is a list of our Problem Solving interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our 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."

Need to start saving with a new ATS? Learn how to calculate the return on investment of your ATS Calculate ROI now

• HR Toolkit |
• HR Templates |
• Interview questions |

Problem-solving interview questions and answers

Use these sample problem-solving interview questions to discover how candidates approach complex situations and if they can provide effective solutions.

An experienced recruiter and HR professional who has transferred her expertise to insightful content to support others in HR.

10 good problem-solving interview questions

• Describe a time when you had to solve a problem without managerial input. How did you handle it, and what was the result?
• Give an example of a time when you identified and fixed a problem before it became urgent.
• Share a situation where you predicted a problem with a stakeholder. How did you prevent it from escalating?
• Describe a time when you faced challenges in doing your job efficiently. How did you overcome them?
• Recall a time when you successfully used crisis-management skills.
• How would you handle a new project with great revenue potential but potential legal implications for the company?
• How do you determine when to solve a problem on your own or ask for help?
• Describe a time when you faced a difficult situation at work that required critical thinking and decision-making under pressure.
• Have you ever used intuition or prior experience to anticipate and address a problem effectively? Provide an example.
• Share an example of a project or task that initially seemed overwhelming. How did you approach it, and what strategies did you use to ensure successful completion?

1. Describe a time when you had to solve a problem without managerial input. How did you handle it, and what was the result?

This question assesses candidates’ ability to take initiative and solve problems independently. Look for their problem-solving approach, the actions they took, and the outcome of their efforts.

Sample answer:

“In my previous role, we encountered a sudden technical issue that disrupted our operations. As the team lead, I gathered all available information, analyzed the root cause, and facilitated a brainstorming session with the team. We implemented a temporary workaround and collaborated with the IT department to resolve the issue. Our proactive approach ensured minimal disruption, and we were able to restore normal operations within 24 hours.”

2. Give an example of a time when you identified and fixed a problem before it became urgent.

This question evaluates candidates’ ability to anticipate and address problems proactively. Look for their ability to identify potential issues and take preventive measures.

“While working as a project manager, I noticed a potential bottleneck in our production process that could have led to delays if left unaddressed. I conducted a thorough analysis, identified the root cause, and proposed process improvements. By implementing these changes proactively, we eliminated the bottleneck and increased efficiency. As a result, we consistently met project deadlines, and our team’s productivity significantly improved.”

3. Share a situation where you predicted a problem with a stakeholder. How did you prevent it from escalating?

This question assesses candidates’ ability to identify and mitigate potential conflicts. Look for their communication and problem-solving skills in managing stakeholder relationships.

“While working on a cross-functional project, I anticipated a miscommunication issue that could arise with a key stakeholder due to conflicting expectations. I scheduled a meeting with the stakeholder, listened to their concerns, and facilitated a discussion among the team members. By proactively addressing the issue, we established clear communication channels, built trust, and ensured a smooth collaboration throughout the project.”

4. Describe a time when you faced challenges in doing your job efficiently. How did you overcome them?

This question evaluates candidates’ ability to handle challenges and find solutions to improve efficiency. Look for their problem-solving strategies and their adaptability to overcome obstacles.

“In a previous role, I faced a situation where the workload significantly increased due to unexpected circumstances. To maintain efficiency, I assessed the situation, identified tasks that could be delegated, and communicated with my colleagues to seek their support. By redistributing responsibilities and fostering a collaborative environment, we successfully managed the increased workload without compromising quality or missing deadlines.”

5. Recall a time when you successfully used crisis-management skills.

This question assesses candidates’ ability to remain calm and make effective decisions under pressure. Look for their problem-solving approach and their ability to handle high-stress situations.

“In a previous role as a customer service representative, we experienced a sudden surge in customer complaints due to a product quality issue. I quickly coordinated with relevant departments, identified the root cause, and developed an action plan. By prioritizing urgent cases, maintaining open communication with affected customers, and providing timely updates, we regained customer satisfaction and prevented further damage to our brand reputation.”

6. How would you handle a new project with great revenue potential but potential legal implications for the company?

This question assesses candidates’ ability to balance potential risks and rewards. Look for their ethical considerations, problem-solving approach, and willingness to seek guidance when faced with legal implications.

“If faced with a project that carries both revenue potential and potential legal implications, I would approach it with caution and thorough evaluation. I would research and seek legal guidance to fully understand the implications and compliance requirements. I would then collaborate with legal experts, cross-functional teams, and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan that minimizes legal risks while maximizing revenue potential.”

7. How do you determine when to solve a problem on your own or ask for help?

This question assesses candidates’ judgment and collaboration skills. Look for their ability to assess situations and make decisions about when to seek assistance.

“When faced with a problem, I first evaluate its complexity and impact on the project or task at hand. If it’s within my capabilities and doesn’t significantly hinder progress, I take the initiative to solve it on my own. However, if the problem is complex or could have a significant impact, I believe in seeking help from relevant team members or subject matter experts. Collaboration often leads to more comprehensive and effective solutions.”

8. Describe a time when you faced a difficult situation at work that required critical thinking and decision-making under pressure.

This question assesses candidates’ ability to think critically and make sound decisions in challenging situations. Look for their problem-solving approach, decision-making process, and the outcomes of their decisions.

“In a previous role, I faced a tight deadline for a project with limited resources. It required careful resource allocation and prioritization. I gathered all available data, analyzed the project requirements, and consulted with team members. Through strategic planning and effective delegation, we managed to complete the project successfully within the given timeframe, exceeding client expectations.”

9. Have you ever used intuition or prior experience to anticipate and address a problem effectively? Provide an example.

This question assesses candidates’ ability to leverage intuition and past experiences to navigate problem-solving situations. Look for their ability to reflect on past situations, apply lessons learned, and make informed decisions.

“In a previous role, I noticed a recurring issue in our supply chain that had caused delays in the past. Drawing upon my prior experience, I anticipated the problem and suggested process improvements to streamline the supply chain. By implementing these changes, we minimized delays and improved overall efficiency, resulting in cost savings for the company.”

10. Share an example of a project or task that initially seemed overwhelming. How did you approach it, and what strategies did you use to ensure successful completion?

This question assesses candidates’ ability to tackle complex projects and break them down into manageable tasks. Look for their problem-solving approach, organization skills, and ability to persevere in the face of challenges.

“I once undertook a project that involved a significant amount of data analysis and reporting within a tight deadline. Initially, it felt overwhelming, but I broke it down into smaller tasks and created a detailed timeline. I prioritized the most critical aspects and sought assistance from colleagues with specialized skills. Through effective time management, collaboration, and diligent effort, we successfully completed the project on time and delivered high-quality results.”

Why you should ask candidates problem-solving interview questions

Employees will face challenges in their job. Before you decide on your next hire, use your interview process to evaluate how candidates approach difficult situations.

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 analytical and spherical thinkers with the potential for technical problem solving.

Potential hires who recognize a problem, or predict one could potentially occur, will stand out. Candidates should also demonstrate how they would fix the issue, and prevent it from occurring again.

These sample problem-solving interview questions apply to all positions, regardless of industry or seniority level. You can use the following questions to gauge your candidates’ way of thinking in difficult situations:

Tips to assess problem-solving skills in interviews

• During your interviews, use hypothetical scenarios that are likely to occur on the job. It’s best to avoid unrealistic problems that aren’t relevant to your company.
• Examine how candidates approach a problem step-by-step: from identifying and analyzing the issue to comparing alternatives and choosing the most effective solution.
• Pay attention to candidates who provide innovative solutions. Creative minds can contribute fresh perspectives that add value to your company.
• When problems arise, employees should show commitment and a can-do attitude. Test candidates’ problem-solving skills in past situations. If they were determined to find the best solution as soon as possible, they will be great hires.
• Most complex situations require a team effort. Candidates’ previous experiences will show you how they collaborated with their colleagues to reach decisions and how comfortable they felt asking for help.
• If you’re hiring for a technical role, ask questions relevant to the work your future hires will do. Technical problem-solving interview questions, like “How would you troubleshoot this X bug?” will reveal your candidates’ hard skills and their ability to effectively address problems on the job.
• No answer. If a candidate can’t recall an example of a problem they faced in a previous position, that’s a sign they may avoid dealing with difficult situations. Canned answers. A generic answer like “Once, I had to deal with a customer who complained about the pricing. I managed to calm them down and closed the deal,” doesn’t offer much insight about the candidate’s thought process. Ask follow-up questions to get more details.
• Focus on the problem, not the solution. Identifying the problem is one thing, but finding the solution is more important. Candidates who focus too much on the problem may be too negative for the position.
• Feeling stressed/uncomfortable. It’s normal to feel slightly uncomfortable when put on the spot. But, if candidates are so stressed they can’t answer the question, that’s an indicator they don’t handle stressful situations well.
• Superficial answers. Candidates who choose the easy way out of a problem usually don’t consider all aspects and limitations of the situation. Opt for candidates who analyze the data you’ve given them and ask for more information to better dig into the problem.
• Cover up the problem or minimize its significance. Unaddressed problems could quickly escalate into bigger issues. Employees who leave things for later mightn’t be result-oriented or engaged in their jobs.

In conclusion, problem-solving interview questions provide valuable insights into candidates’ abilities to approach challenges, think critically, and provide effective solutions. By asking these questions and considering the tips provided, you can assess candidates’ problem-solving skills and make informed hiring decisions that align with your organization’s needs.

Frequently asked questions

Want a custom interview kit, related interview questions.

• Critical-thinking interview questions and answers
• Decision-making interview questions and answers
• Analytical interview questions and answers

Related Topics

• How to assess soft skills in an interview
• Interview process and strategies: a comprehensive FAQ guide
• Structured interview questions: Tips and examples for hiring

Jump to section

Let's grow together.

Explore our full platform with a 15-day free trial. Post jobs, get candidates and onboard employees all in one place.

Share on Mastodon

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Interview Strategies

Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers

How to Answer Some of the Toughest Interview Questions

• Why Companies Ask
• Techniques for Answering
• Sample Problem-Solving Q&As

Possible Follow-Up Questions

Getty Images/Morsa Images

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. 

Problem solving interview questions (and answers)

25 problem-solving interview questions to uncover how your candidates approach complex situations and provide effective solutions.

Home » Resource Library » Competency based interview questions » Problem solving interview questions & answers

25 good problem solving questions

• Describe a situation where you encountered a problem at work or in your personal life and how you resolved it.
• How do you approach solving everyday challenges in your role?
• Share an example of a time when you identified a problem before it became critical.
• How do you handle situations where you don’t have enough information to make a decision?
• Describe a time when you collaborated with others to solve a problem successfully.
• How do you prioritise multiple problems that demand your attention simultaneously?
• Describe a situation where you had to deal with a difficult team member while working on a project.
• How do you handle situations when you encounter resistance to your proposed solutions?
• Share an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to find an innovative solution.
• How do you ensure that solutions you implement are sustainable and won’t lead to new problems down the line?
• Describe a time when you used data analysis to solve a complex problem.
• Share an example of a time when you had to make a critical decision under time pressure.
• How do you encourage a culture of continuous improvement within a team or organisation?
• Describe a situation where you had to lead a team through a particularly complex problem-solving process.
• How do you approach solving problems that require cross-functional collaboration?
• Share an example of a time when you had to deal with a high-stress problem-solving situation with limited resources.
• How do you handle situations where you must navigate competing priorities and interests to find the best solution?
• Describe a time when you proactively identified potential problems before they became evident and implemented preventive measures.
• How do you foster a culture of problem-solving and innovation within a team or organisation?
• Share an example of a time when you had to develop a comprehensive solution to a multifaceted problem.
• How do you encourage team members to take ownership of the problems they encounter and find solutions independently?
• Share an example of a time when you had to navigate through conflicting information to arrive at an optimal solution.
• How do you stay updated on the latest problem-solving techniques and methodologies?
• Describe a time when you had to lead a team through a crisis, demonstrating exemplary problem-solving skills.
• How do you handle situations where you must make decisions without a clear precedent or established procedure?

1. Describe a situation where you encountered a problem at work or in your personal life and how you resolved it.

What to look for:

Look for a clear explanation of the problem and a logical approach to solving it.

Suggested answer:

“At my previous job, we faced a communication issue within the team. I scheduled a team meeting to discuss the problem openly and find a collaborative solution. We implemented regular team catch-ups, and it significantly improved communication.”

2. How do you approach solving everyday challenges in your role?

The candidate should demonstrate a systematic and proactive approach to problem-solving.

“I start by gathering all relevant information, breaking down the problem into smaller parts, and then brainstorming potential solutions. Once I evaluate each option, I choose the best course of action and monitor its progress.”

3. Share an example of a time when you identified a problem before it became critical.

A candidate who shows attentiveness and the ability to anticipate issues.

“In my last project, I noticed that the team was falling behind on deadlines due to inefficient task allocation. I proactively suggested a more balanced workload distribution, which helped us meet our milestones.”

4. How do you handle situations where you don’t have enough information to make a decision?

Look for candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to seek additional information.

“When faced with insufficient data, I research and seek input from colleagues or experts in the field. By gathering more information, I can make a more informed decision.”

5. Describe a time when you collaborated with others to solve a problem successfully.

A candidate who can effectively work in a team and value diverse perspectives.

”During a group project, we encountered technical challenges. I encouraged open communication, allowing everyone to share their ideas. By combining our strengths, we developed a solution that addressed the issues effectively.”

6. How do you prioritise multiple problems that demand your attention simultaneously?

The ability to assess urgency, importance, and impact to make informed decisions.

“I use a priority matrix to evaluate the urgency and importance of each problem. High-impact and time-sensitive issues take precedence, while lower-priority problems are scheduled for later.”

7. Describe a situation where you had to deal with a difficult team member while working on a project.

The candidate’s ability to handle interpersonal conflicts and foster collaboration.

“In a previous project, a team member and I had conflicting ideas. I organised a one-on-one discussion, actively listened to their concerns, and found common ground. We adjusted our approach and worked together more smoothly afterward.”

8. How do you handle situations when you encounter resistance to your proposed solutions?

The candidate should demonstrate persuasive communication skills and a willingness to consider alternative viewpoints.

“I try to understand the reasons behind the resistance and address any concerns. I provide data and examples to support my solution and highlight its benefits. If needed, I’m open to adjusting my proposal based on constructive feedback.”

9. Share an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to find an innovative solution.

Creativity and resourcefulness in problem-solving.

“During a product development phase, we faced budget constraints that prevented us from acquiring expensive software. I researched open-source alternatives and successfully integrated a cost-effective solution that met our requirements.”

10. How do you ensure that solutions you implement are sustainable and won’t lead to new problems down the line?

Candidates who demonstrate a long-term perspective and consider potential consequences.

“To ensure sustainable solutions, I conduct thorough risk assessments and engage stakeholders to anticipate any unintended side effects. Regular evaluations help me identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments.”

11. Describe a time when you used data analysis to solve a complex problem.

The candidate’s ability to leverage data-driven insights to make informed decisions.

“In a marketing campaign, I analysed customer behaviour data to identify the best-performing channels. By reallocating resources based on the analysis, we increased ROI significantly.”

12. Share an example of a time when you had to make a critical decision under time pressure.

The ability to stay composed, think rationally, and prioritise the most important factors.

“During a project deadline crunch, we discovered a significant flaw in our initial approach. I quickly gathered the team, assessed potential alternatives, and made a calculated decision that allowed us to meet the deadline with a strong outcome.”

13. How do you encourage a culture of continuous improvement within a team or organisation?

Candidates who actively seek opportunities for growth and foster a learning mindset among colleagues.

“I promote continuous improvement by organising regular team retrospectives, where we openly discuss successes and challenges. I also encourage ongoing learning and development, such as workshops or online courses.”

14. Describe a situation where you had to lead a team through a particularly complex problem-solving process.

Leadership qualities, such as delegation, communication, and motivating team members.

“In a merger project, we faced intricate integration challenges. I divided the team into smaller groups, assigned specific responsibilities, and ensured transparent communication across all units. Through effective leadership, we successfully navigated the complexities.”

15. How do you approach solving problems that require cross-functional collaboration?

The ability to bridge communication gaps and align goals among diverse teams.

“When dealing with cross-functional challenges, I set up joint meetings, clearly define objectives, and ensure everyone’s voice is heard. By promoting a collaborative environment, we can collectively solve the problem with each team’s unique expertise.”

16. Share an example of a time when you had to deal with a high-stress problem-solving situation with limited resources.

Resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness in demanding situations.

“In a crisis management situation, we had to address a sudden supply chain disruption with limited time and resources. I coordinated closely with suppliers, secured alternative sources, and prioritised essential products to minimise the impact on customers.”

17. How do you handle situations where you must navigate competing priorities and interests to find the best solution?

Candidates who demonstrate diplomacy, negotiation skills, and the ability to find win-win solutions.

“In situations with competing priorities, I gather input from all stakeholders, identify common ground, and find a solution that meets the core needs of each party. Effective communication is vital to ensure understanding and buy-in.”

18. Describe a time when you proactively identified potential problems before they became evident and implemented preventive measures.

The ability to foresee challenges and take proactive measures to avoid them.

“In a software development project, I conducted extensive testing and risk analysis before the launch. This allowed us to identify and address potential bugs early, resulting in a smoother product release.”

19. How do you foster a culture of problem-solving and innovation within a team or organisation?

Candidates who promote a growth mindset, experimentation, and continuous improvement.

“I encourage my team to see setbacks as opportunities to learn and innovate. We hold regular brainstorming sessions, where all ideas are welcome, and we celebrate experimentation, even if it leads to failure.”

20. Share an example of a time when you had to develop a comprehensive solution to a multifaceted problem.

The ability to analyse complex situations, break them down into manageable parts, and synthesise a cohesive solution.

“During a business expansion, we faced challenges in scaling operations, hiring new talent, and adapting our marketing strategy. I worked closely with different departments, utilised data analysis, and developed a detailed roadmap that addressed each aspect systematically.”

21. How do you encourage team members to take ownership of the problems they encounter and find solutions independently?

Candidates who empower their team members and trust them to take initiative.

“I promote a culture of ownership by assigning challenging tasks and providing guidance when needed. I ensure team members know they have the authority to make decisions and take responsibility for their outcomes.”

22. Share an example of a time when you had to navigate through conflicting information to arrive at an optimal solution.

The ability to critically assess data and reconcile different perspectives to make informed decisions.

“In a strategic planning process, I received conflicting data from various departments. I organised a meeting to discuss the discrepancies, validate the information, and reach a consensus. The collaborative effort led to a well-informed decision.”

23. How do you stay updated on the latest problem-solving techniques and methodologies?

Candidates who prioritise continuous learning and professional development.

“I regularly attend workshops, webinars, and industry conferences to learn about emerging problem-solving approaches. I also participate in online forums and read relevant books to stay informed about the latest best practices.”

24. Describe a time when you had to lead a team through a crisis, demonstrating exemplary problem-solving skills.

Leadership under pressure, quick decision-making, and the ability to maintain team morale during challenging times.

“During a product recall crisis, I assembled a crisis management team, ensuring constant communication and support. We worked around the clock to identify the root cause, implement corrective actions, and maintain transparency with customers, which eventually led to a successful resolution.”

25. How do you handle situations where you must make decisions without a clear precedent or established procedure?

Candidates who can display confidence, adaptability, and strategic thinking in ambiguous situations.

“In uncharted territory, I rely on my ability to gather insights, analyse potential outcomes, and consult with experienced colleagues. I understand that bold decisions may be necessary, and I take responsibility for the consequences while learning from the experience.”

Remember, the suggested answers are just examples, and the quality of a response will vary based on the individual’s experiences and capabilities. 

As a recruiter, try to focus on the candidate’s thought process, problem-solving approach, adaptability, and ability to learn from past experiences when evaluating their responses. Look for real-life examples that demonstrate their problem-solving skills and how they apply them to various situations.

How to measure problem solving skills

Assessing problem-solving skills in candidates involves evaluating their analytical thinking, creativity, and ability to implement practical solutions. 

Analytical thinking:

Evaluate a candidate’s analytical skills by assessing their ability to break down complex problems into manageable components. Inquire about their process for gathering and analysing relevant information.

Creativity in solutions:

Assess a candidate’s creativity in generating innovative solutions to problems. Inquire about instances where they approached challenges from different perspectives, leading to creative and effective solutions.

Decision-making process:

Effective problem-solving often involves decision-making. Evaluate a candidate’s decision-making process by asking about how they weigh pros and cons and reach well-founded conclusions in problem-solving scenarios.

Resourcefulness:

Assess a candidate’s resourcefulness in finding solutions with limited resources. Inquire about situations where they demonstrated the ability to achieve goals despite constraints or challenges.

Implementation skills:

Effective problem solvers not only identify solutions but also implement them successfully. Inquire about instances where candidates have taken initiative and implemented practical solutions to address specific challenges.

Collaborative problem-solving:

Evaluate a candidate’s ability to work collaboratively on problem-solving initiatives. Inquire about experiences where they contributed to group problem-solving efforts and how they facilitated collaboration within a team.

Learning from mistakes:

Assess a candidate’s ability to learn from mistakes and setbacks. Inquire about instances where they encountered challenges, and evaluate their capacity to adjust their approach and improve based on those experiences.

Time management:

Effective problem solvers can manage their time efficiently. Ask candidates about situations where they had to solve problems within tight deadlines and how they prioritised tasks to achieve successful outcomes.

These points provide a comprehensive framework for assessing problem-solving skills in candidates. A strong problem solver can positively impact an organisation by addressing challenges proactively and contributing to continuous improvement.

FOR COMPANIES:

Platform demo, book a demo, and see how clevry can support your recruitment.

Sign up for a free Clevry account to get matched with the job of your dreams

Recruitment & staffing

• Assessment service

Advisory & consulting

Psychometric test design

• Team building workshop
• Leadership workshop

Our assessments:

Ability Tests

Personality Questionnaires

• Situational Judgement Tests

Assessment Centre Exercises

Virtual Assessment Centres

• 360 Feedback

Off-the-shelf assessments

• Sample reports
• Downloadable guides
• Customer cases
• Psychometric test advice
• What is a psychometric test?
• What are soft skills?

Cognitive ability test – Guide

How to interview someone – Guide

Employee onboarding – Guide

Running a virtual assessment centre – Guide

Neurodiversity at work – Guide

Psychometric test guide

• Competency based interview questions

Work for us

Partner Programme

About Clevry

Assess & Hire

• Recruitment & staffing
• Assessment platform
• Recruitment agencies
• Our assessments
• Assessment catalogue
• Personality questionnaires
• Ability tests
• Verbal reasoning tests
• Numerical reasoning tests
• Situational judgement tests
• Assessment centre exercises
• Virtual assessment centres

Consultancy

• Bespoke test design
• Soft skills training
• Test user training
• Selection process design
• News & insights
• Cognitive ability test - Guide
• How to interview someone - Guide
• Employee onboarding - Guide
• Running a virtual assessment centre - Guide
• Neurodiversity at work - Guide
• Psychometric tests - Guide

Recent Insights

Outsourcing recruitment – 10 reasons to choose a recruitment partner, how to streamline your recruitment with talent assessments, how to hire a sales director, how to hire a project manager, 6 reasons to use virtual assessment centres, 6 ways to ace your next interview.

• © Clevry. All rights reserved.
• Data Security
• Code of Conduct
• Assessments
• Recruitment ATS
• The science
• Personality Assessments
• Cognitive Ability Tests
• Recruitment process outsourcing
• Recruiters & Researchers
• HR consultants
• Recruitment services
• Staffing services
• Talent marketplace
• Assessment Service
• Bespoke assessment design
• Leadership workshops
• Assessment centre development
• BPS test user training
• Case studies
• Knowledge base
• Accelerate Program
• Open vacancies

Top Answers for Problem Solving Interview Questions

Conquer the Interview: Master the Art of Problem-Solving with MatchBuilt

Interviews can be unpredictable, but your problem-solving responses don’t have to be. At MatchBuilt, we’re not just about finding jobs—we’re about empowering you to navigate the toughest interview questions with confidence and poise.

Navigate Your Interview With Precision:

• Unpack the Challenge: Learn to identify and articulate the problem with finesse.
• Craft Your Methodology: Develop a clear, logical approach to potential solutions.
• Lead with Solutions: Share your thought process and the steps to your successful outcome.
• Soft Skills Spotlight: Balance your technical savvy with the soft skills that showcase you as a complete candidate.

As the founder of MatchBuilt, I’ve seen how problem-solving skills can make or break an interview. They’re the litmus test of your practical know-how and your ability to collaborate under pressure.

Why Entrust Your Career to MatchBuilt?

• Depth of Experience: Insights honed from years of career coaching and talent development.
• Industry Acumen: Advice that’s informed by the realities of today’s job landscape.
• Tactical Expertise: Strategies that have placed numerous candidates in roles where they thrive.

Dive into this guide to turn every problem-solving question from a hurdle into a highlight of your interview. Join me, and let MatchBuilt illuminate the path to your next career milestone.

Strategies for Answering Problem Solving Interview Questions

In order to effectively answer problem-solving interview questions, candidates must demonstrate their critical thinking skills and ability to approach unexpected challenges. Here are some strategies to help candidates navigate these types of questions:

Understand the Problem

The first step in solving any problem is to understand it fully. Candidates should listen carefully to the hiring manager’s description of the situation and ask questions to clarify any uncertainties. This will help them identify potential problems and determine the best way to approach the situation.

Brainstorm and Analyze Options

Once the problem is clear, candidates should brainstorm possible solutions and analyze the pros and cons of each option. They can draw from their past experiences to identify similar situations they’ve faced and the solutions they implemented. This demonstrates their ability to think critically and come up with new ideas .

Implementation

After evaluating their options, candidates must make a decision and explain the reasoning behind it. It’s important to emphasize how they would implement their chosen solution, taking into account potential obstacles and risks. This demonstrates their ability to make informed decisions and execute plans effectively.

Emphasize Soft Skills

In addition to technical skills, hiring managers are often interested in a candidate’s soft skills . This includes communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities . Candidates should showcase how their soft skills complement their technical abilities and help them handle unexpected challenges.

Candidates can use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure their answers and clearly and concisely explain their experience . By using this method, they can provide a sample answer that effectively demonstrates their approach to problem-solving.

In summary, candidates can effectively showcase their problem-solving abilities during the hiring process by understanding the problem, brainstorming and analyzing options, making informed decisions, and emphasizing soft skills. By preparing for various types of questions and drawing from past experiences, candidates can provide specific and effective example answers that demonstrate their ability to solve potential problems in a specific role.

Top 8 Problem Solving Interview Questions and Example Answers

1. describe a situation when you faced a difficult problem at work and how you solved it.

Hiring managers ask this question to understand how candidates handle unexpected challenges and difficult situations. An example answer to this question could be:

In my previous job as a software engineer, we encountered an unexpected challenge during a product launch. Our team had worked on a feature for months, but it wasn’t functioning as expected during the testing phase. After analyzing the code and conducting further tests, we realized that there was a compatibility issue with a third-party software we had integrated. To solve the problem, I led a cross-functional team to identify a workaround that would allow us to launch the product on time. We prioritized features and made strategic decisions to ensure the most critical functionality worked smoothly. By collaborating closely with team members and thinking creatively, we overcame this challenge and delivered a successful product launch.

2. Explain a Time When You Had to Make a Decision Without All the Information You Needed

This question helps hiring managers evaluate candidates’ ability to make informed decisions under pressure. An example answer to this question could be:

In my previous role as a project manager, we were working on a tight deadline for a client deliverable. During the final stages, we encountered a technical issue that we hadn’t anticipated, and we realized that we didn’t have all the information we needed to solve the problem. I had to make a decision quickly to keep the project on track. I relied on my technical expertise and consulted with team members to gather as much information as possible. Based on the available information, I made a decision that allowed us to complete the project on time. Afterward, we conducted a post-mortem analysis to identify the root cause of the problem and make changes to our process to prevent similar issues in the future.

3. Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Work with Someone Who Was Difficult to Get Along With

This question helps hiring managers evaluate candidates’ ability to collaborate and handle conflict . An example answer to this question could be:

In my previous job, I worked on a cross-functional team with a colleague with a very different work style than mine. We had difficulty communicating effectively, which resulted in misaligned priorities and conflicting expectations. To solve the problem, I set up a one-on-one meeting with the colleague to discuss our differences and find common ground. We identified areas where we could collaborate more effectively and established a communication plan to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future. By taking the initiative to address the problem and finding a mutually beneficial solution, we were able to work together more effectively and achieve our goals.

4. Describe a Time When You Had to Analyze Information and Make a Recommendation

This question helps hiring managers evaluate candidates’ analytical skills and ability to make informed recommendations . An example answer to this question could be:

In my previous role as a financial analyst, I was tasked with analyzing a large data set and making a recommendation on a new investment opportunity. I conducted extensive research and analysis, taking into account market trends, industry benchmarks, and financial projections. Based on my findings, I recommended that we pursue the investment opportunity, highlighting the potential for high returns and the alignment with our company’s long-term strategy. The executive team ultimately approved my recommendation, and the investment turned out to be very successful.

5. Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Solve a Problem with Limited Resources

This question is often asked to test a candidate’s ability to work under pressure and come up with creative solutions. One example answer could be:

In my previous role, we had a tight budget and a deadline to launch a new product. Our team was struggling to come up with a cost-effective solution. I suggested we contact local universities to see if any students were interested in working on the project as part of their coursework. We were able to find a group of talented students who worked on the project for a fraction of the cost and delivered exceptional results on time.

6. Explain How You Would Approach a Problem That You Have Never Encountered Before

This question assesses a candidate’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills. An example answer could be:

If I encountered a problem I’d never seen before; my first step would be gathering as much information as possible. I would research the problem and try to understand its root cause. Then, I would brainstorm possible solutions and evaluate each one’s feasibility and potential impact. Finally, I would seek input from other team members and stakeholders to make an informed decision.

7. Describe a Time When You Had to Manage a Crisis Situation

This question tests a candidate’s ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations. An example answer could be:

During my time as a project manager, we experienced a sudden system outage that lasted for several hours. I immediately gathered my team and assigned specific tasks to each member to investigate and resolve the issue. I also communicated regularly with our clients, keeping them informed of our progress and estimated timeline for resolution. By working together and maintaining open communication, we resolved the issue and minimized its impact on our clients.

8. Explain a Time When You Identified a Problem Before Anyone Else and Took Steps to Solve It

This question tests a candidate’s proactive thinking and initiative. An example answer could be:

In my previous role, I noticed that our team was spending excessive time on manual data entry. I researched possible solutions and presented a proposal to my supervisor, suggesting we invest in automation software. After gaining approval, I worked with our IT team to implement the new software, which significantly increased efficiency and productivity for our team.

Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Your Top FAQs Answered

As problem-solving skills are highly valued in most job roles, it’s no surprise that problem-solving interview questions are common in job interviews. However, these types of questions can be challenging to answer effectively, leaving job seekers with a lot of questions. In this section, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about problem-solving interview questions and provide answers to help candidates confidently navigate these types of questions.

Interviewers ask problem-solving questions to assess candidates' ability to think critically, handle challenges, and develop creative solutions. These skills are often essential in the workplace, and employers want to ensure they hire someone who can contribute to the company's success.

Candidates may find it challenging to come up with specific examples that showcase their problem-solving skills. Additionally, they may struggle to articulate their thought process or communicate their solutions effectively.

The best way to answer problem-solving questions is to use a structured approach. Begin by clarifying the problem, brainstorming possible solutions, evaluating each option, and selecting the best solution. It's also essential to communicate your process and reasoning effectively.

You can expect a range of problem-solving questions in a job interview, from general questions about past experiences to hypothetical scenarios that test your critical thinking skills. Examples may include questions about difficult situations you've faced, how you've solved problems with limited resources, or how you approach problems you've never encountered before.

To prepare for problem-solving questions, review the job description and identify any skills or experiences that are essential for the role. Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills. Practice using the STAR method to structure your answers and communicate your thought process clearly.

It's okay if you don't know the answer to a problem-solving question. Instead, focus on your approach to problem-solving and how you would go about finding a solution. Employers are often more interested in how you think than whether you have all the answers.

If you don't have work experience, think of examples from your academic or personal life that showcase your problem-solving skills. For example, you may have solved a complex problem in a group project, volunteered for a community organization, or participated in a hackathon.

Problem-solving questions can be used for all types of jobs, from entry-level to executive positions. Employers want to ensure that their employees can handle challenges and come up with innovative solutions regardless of their job titles or responsibilities.

Mastering Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Key Takeaways for Job Seekers

Problem-solving interview questions provide hiring managers with valuable insights into a candidate’s problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. As a candidate, answering these questions with a specific example of a time when you faced a potential problem and describing your problem-solving process can give you a good chance of impressing the hiring manager.

While technical interviews often focus on a candidate’s technical abilities, behavioral questions, including problem-solving questions, provide insight into a candidate’s approach and experience with relevant work-related problems. By emphasizing your problem-solving process and relevant information, you can demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are among the right candidates for the job.

At MatchBuilt Executive Search, we understand the importance of problem-solving interview questions in hiring. Our expertise in helping clients find candidates with the right skills and experience has given us a unique perspective on the best way to approach these questions. By providing innovative and creative solutions to unexpected challenges, our candidates have a better chance of succeeding in the interview process and landing their dream job.

So, whether you are a hiring manager looking for the right candidates or a job seeker looking to showcase your problem-solving skills, understanding the importance of problem-solving interview questions and how to approach them can make all the difference.

Looking for more career advice and tips? Check out our blog for articles on dealing with difficult coworkers, finding the best careers for your personality type , and being more assertive at work . We also cover industry-specific topics, such as the best-paying jobs in homebuilding . Browse our blog for insights and strategies that can help you achieve career success.

Mastering Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Expert Tips and Video Guides

About Mark Matyanowski

As the founder of MatchBuilt, with over 18 years of recruiting and coaching experience and 8+ years in executive roles at a leading Fortune 100 company, I am deeply committed to guiding professionals in their career paths.

Our team at MatchBuilt offers expert support in enhancing resumes, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and preparing for interviews. Our blog, drawing on our rich experience and industry insights, is a valuable resource for job seekers.

We take pride in successfully guiding job candidates to top-tier company roles while empowering individuals to achieve their career ambitions, irrespective of their background or educational level.

30 Information Technology Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Common Information Technology Technician interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

Being an Information Technology (IT) Technician is no easy feat. You are the backbone of modern businesses, ensuring that technology-driven operations run smoothly and effectively. As you prepare for your interview, it’s essential to showcase not only your technical expertise but also your problem-solving skills and ability to handle stressful situations gracefully.

In this article, we aim to help you excel in your upcoming interview by providing a list of common IT technician interview questions. Along with these questions, we’ll provide insights on how best to answer them, demonstrating your capabilities and readiness to step into this critical role.

1. Can you describe a complex technical issue you had to resolve and the steps you took to solve it?

Unraveling the mysteries of tech glitches is a daily task for those in IT. The ability to troubleshoot, isolate the problem, and find a solution is critical to the job. Employers want to see that you have a systematic, logical approach to problem-solving and the patience and persistence to see it through.

Example: “A complex issue I resolved was a recurring network outage in a company. The problem was intermittent, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause.

I started by analyzing the network logs and found patterns of outages during peak usage times. This suggested a capacity issue. To verify, I conducted stress tests on the network outside business hours.

Results confirmed my suspicion – the network couldn’t handle high traffic volumes. I proposed upgrading the network infrastructure to support higher capacities and implementing load balancing techniques.

Once approved, I coordinated with vendors for upgrades and oversaw the implementation process. Post-upgrade, the network performance improved significantly and no further outages were reported.”

2. How do you stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies?

In the rapidly evolving field of information technology, the ability to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is invaluable. Employers need to know that you have the initiative and resources to stay current in your field. Your answer will demonstrate your commitment to professional development, your curiosity, and your ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Example: “I regularly follow industry-specific websites and blogs, such as TechCrunch and Wired, to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies. I also attend webinars, online courses, and IT conferences whenever possible for hands-on learning experiences. Participating in professional networks and forums is another way I keep up with emerging developments. Lastly, I dedicate some time each week to learn new skills or deepen my understanding of a specific technology through platforms like Coursera and Udemy.”

3. Can you explain a time when you had to explain a technical problem to a non-technical person?

The essence of being an effective IT technician is not just about understanding complex systems, but also about communicating those complexities in a simple, understandable way to non-technical people. By asking this question, employers want to gauge your ability to bridge the gap between the technical and non-technical, ensuring that you can effectively communicate solutions and troubleshoot problems for all users, regardless of their technical understanding.

Example: “During a system update at my previous company, we experienced an unexpected server outage. I had to explain the situation to our non-technical CEO. I used the analogy of a city power grid: just as cities sometimes experience blackouts due to maintenance or unforeseen issues, our “city” (the server) was temporarily down for similar reasons.

I reassured her that like utility workers restoring power, our IT team was working diligently to bring our systems back online. This simple comparison helped her understand the issue and eased her concerns about the downtime.”

4. What steps would you take to secure a network?

Securing a network is a fundamental part of an IT technician’s role, and how you answer this question will demonstrate your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and understanding of best practices in IT security. Hiring managers want to ensure you have the critical thinking skills to identify potential vulnerabilities, implement security measures, and maintain the integrity of the network.

Example: “To secure a network, I would begin by implementing strong password policies and two-factor authentication for all users.

Next, I’d ensure that the network is protected with firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor and block suspicious activity.

Regularly updating software and hardware components is also crucial as it helps in fixing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

Encrypting sensitive data adds an additional layer of protection, making it unreadable even if intercepted.

Lastly, regular audits and penetration testing can help identify potential weaknesses before they are exploited.

Educating staff about cybersecurity best practices is equally important to prevent human errors leading to security breaches.”

5. Can you discuss your experience with cloud computing and virtualization?

As an IT technician, your role may involve managing, supporting, or even building cloud and virtualization infrastructures. These technologies are central to many aspects of today’s IT landscape, from data storage and disaster recovery to application deployment and network virtualization. This question helps employers determine if you have the necessary skills and experience to handle these tasks.

Example: “I have substantial experience in cloud computing, specifically with platforms like AWS and Azure. I’ve managed data migration projects to the cloud, ensuring secure and efficient transfer of sensitive information.

In terms of virtualization, I am proficient in using VMware for creating and managing virtual machines. This includes allocating resources, troubleshooting performance issues, and implementing disaster recovery protocols.

My expertise lies in leveraging these technologies to improve system efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance security measures.”

6. How would you handle a situation where you cannot resolve a user’s problem?

As an IT technician, you’re bound to encounter a variety of problems, some of which may be outside your current skill set or require additional resources to solve. This question is important because it allows the hiring manager to assess your problem-solving skills, your ability to manage stress, and your customer service skills. It also helps them understand your ability to work collaboratively, seek help when necessary, and manage expectations.

Example: “In situations where I can’t resolve a user’s problem, my first step would be to acknowledge the issue and reassure the user that I’m doing everything in my power to find a solution.

If it’s beyond my expertise, I wouldn’t hesitate to escalate it to a higher level of support or involve a colleague with more experience in that particular area.

It’s crucial to keep the user updated about the progress and manage their expectations effectively. If delays occur, clear communication is key.

Learning from such instances is also vital for personal growth and improving future troubleshooting efforts.”

7. What is your process for troubleshooting a hardware issue?

As an IT technician, your role involves a significant amount of problem-solving, particularly when it comes to hardware issues. Interviewers want to understand your methodology, your technical skills, and your resourcefulness. They’re interested in how you approach problems, how you diagnose issues, and how you determine and implement solutions. This question also gives them insight into your patience and communication skills when dealing with non-technical colleagues.

Example: “When troubleshooting a hardware issue, I start by identifying the problem through user reports or system alerts. I then replicate the issue if possible to better understand what’s happening.

Next, I check for common causes of such issues like software updates, driver compatibility, or physical damage. If these are not the cause, I consult technical manuals or online resources for potential solutions.

If necessary, I replace the faulty component with a functioning one for further testing. Once the issue is resolved, I document the process and solution to help address similar problems in the future. Throughout this process, communication with affected users is key to manage expectations and ensure satisfaction.”

8. Describe your experience with network architecture and design.

As an IT technician, you’re not just a problem-solver, but also a potential innovator. Employers want to know that you have an understanding of network infrastructure, including design and architecture, as you may be tasked with improving or creating new systems. This goes beyond troubleshooting and into the realm of strategic IT development, contributing directly to the efficiency and evolution of the company’s tech environment.

Example: “I have extensive experience in network architecture and design. I’ve worked on projects involving the development of scalable networks, ensuring they are secure and efficient.

My tasks included designing physical and virtual networks, implementing security measures, and troubleshooting any issues that arose.

Having a deep understanding of protocols like TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP was crucial for this work. I also utilized software such as Cisco Packet Tracer to simulate and test network designs before implementation.

This experience has honed my problem-solving skills and given me a comprehensive understanding of how to create effective network infrastructures.”

9. What programming languages are you proficient in and how have you utilized them in your past roles?

In the fast-paced tech world, an IT technician’s ability to navigate and use different programming languages is vital. Hiring managers need to see that you’re not only technically proficient but adaptable and capable of applying your skills to solve real-world problems. Therefore, they want to hear about your experience and how you’ve used those languages in practical settings.

Example: “I am proficient in Python, Java, and SQL.

In my experience with Python, I’ve developed various automation scripts to streamline system tasks, improving efficiency by 30%.

With Java, I created a user-friendly interface for an internal database management tool which significantly enhanced usability.

Using SQL, I’ve managed large datasets, performed complex queries and data analysis that supported key business decisions.”

10. Can you discuss a time when you had to implement a major system upgrade?

This question aims to examine your project management and problem-solving skills. System upgrades are often complex, involving many different components and teams, and can result in significant downtime if not managed properly. Therefore, your ability to plan, coordinate, and execute a major system upgrade—and to handle any problems that arise during the process—is a key indicator of your technical and leadership skills in the IT field.

Example: “In a previous role, we had to upgrade our Customer Relationship Management system. The goal was to improve data management and customer service.

The first step involved analyzing the old system’s performance and identifying areas for improvement. We discovered that data retrieval was slow and the user interface wasn’t user-friendly.

Next, I coordinated with the software provider on customization requirements. This included faster data processing capabilities and an intuitive UI design.

During implementation, I led training sessions for the staff to ensure smooth transition. Post-implementation, I monitored the system closely for any issues.

This experience taught me the importance of thorough preparation, effective communication, and continuous monitoring during a major system upgrade.”

11. How familiar are you with data backup and recovery procedures?

As an IT technician, one of your primary responsibilities will be to ensure the protection and integrity of data. This involves not only preventing data loss through regular backups, but also being able to restore that data in the event of a system failure or other unforeseen circumstances. Employers need to be confident that you have the necessary skills and experience to handle these critical tasks.

Example: “I have a solid understanding of data backup and recovery procedures. I am well-versed in setting up regular automated backups, using both onsite and offsite storage to ensure data safety.

In terms of recovery, I’m experienced in creating disaster recovery plans which include steps for restoring data from backups. This involves testing the plan regularly to confirm its effectiveness.

Moreover, I understand the importance of encryption in securing backed-up data and version control to track changes over time. These procedures are vital in maintaining data integrity and ensuring business continuity.”

12. What is your approach to managing and monitoring network performance?

The health and speed of a company’s network can have a profound impact on daily operations. If you’re the one keeping an eye on it, you’ll need to be proactive, consistently monitoring performance and making necessary adjustments to prevent issues before they occur. This question aims to assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the importance of network performance in an organization.

Example: “My approach to managing and monitoring network performance involves proactive measures and reactive solutions. I use network monitoring tools to track system performance, identify issues before they become problems, and analyze data for long-term improvements.

Proactive management includes regular maintenance, updates, and patches to prevent potential vulnerabilities. This also encompasses capacity planning to ensure the infrastructure can handle growth and demand spikes.

On the reactive side, when an issue arises, I prioritize immediate resolution while identifying the root cause to prevent recurrence.

Overall, my goal is to maintain optimal network performance with minimal downtime, ensuring business continuity and user satisfaction.”

13. How have you handled a situation where there was a major system failure?

Think about what happens when your computer crashes: it’s stressful, right? Now imagine that happening on a company-wide scale. That’s what IT technicians are often up against. Hiring managers want to know that you can handle that stress, troubleshoot under pressure, and come up with a solution that gets everything back on track. It’s all about being able to handle the unexpected and keep the technological backbone of the company intact.

Example: “In a major system failure, my first priority is to isolate the issue. I recall an incident where our company’s main server crashed unexpectedly. I quickly identified the problem as a hardware malfunction and isolated it from the network.

Next, I implemented our disaster recovery plan, restoring service using backup servers. Simultaneously, I coordinated with the hardware vendor for immediate replacement of the faulty component.

Throughout this process, communication was key. I kept all relevant parties informed about the situation and estimated recovery time. This approach minimized downtime and ensured business continuity.”

14. Can you explain your understanding of ITIL and its role in IT service management?

This question seeks to assess your familiarity with the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), a widely adopted framework for managing IT services. If the organization adheres to this framework, they’ll want a technician who understands its principles and can apply them in their work. This ensures the IT services align with the business needs, leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness.

Example: “ITIL, or Information Technology Infrastructure Library, is a set of best practices for IT service management (ITSM) that aims to align IT services with the needs of businesses. It provides a framework for managing different aspects of IT services, from planning and delivery to support and maintenance.

The role of ITIL in ITSM is crucial as it helps organizations create value by maintaining a balance between the investment in services and the quality of services delivered. This results in improved customer satisfaction, reduced costs, and enhanced productivity.

As an IT technician, understanding and applying ITIL principles can help streamline processes, reduce redundancies, and ultimately deliver more efficient and effective IT services.”

15. What strategies do you use to protect a system from malware and other cybersecurity threats?

Cybersecurity is a fundamental aspect of any IT role, and hiring managers want to be assured that you have the skills and knowledge to protect their systems. They want to know whether you’re up-to-date with the latest security protocols, how you manage and mitigate risks, and your approach to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of their data. Essentially, they’re assessing your ability to safeguard their digital assets against potential threats.

Example: “To protect a system from malware and other cybersecurity threats, I employ a multi-layered approach.

This starts with implementing robust antivirus software that can detect, quarantine, and eliminate various types of malware. Regular updates are essential to keep the software effective against new threats.

Next, firewalls are set up to monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. This helps prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.

I also advocate for regular system backups to ensure data recovery in case of a breach.

Lastly, educating users about safe online practices is crucial as human error often leads to breaches. This includes training on recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious downloads or links.”

16. Can you discuss a project where you had to use your knowledge of database management?

This question is a way for you to demonstrate your technical skills and practical experience with database management. It’s not just about knowing the theory, it’s about applying that knowledge to real-world scenarios. Your response could highlight your problem-solving skills, your ability to work under pressure, and how you approach complex tasks. It’s also an opportunity to showcase any unique approaches or strategies you have used to achieve success.

Example: “In a recent project, I was tasked with optimizing an existing database system for a client. The goal was to improve data retrieval speed and ensure data integrity.

I started by analyzing the current structure of the database and identifying areas that could be improved. This included inefficient queries and poorly designed tables.

After this initial analysis, I implemented changes such as indexing certain columns to speed up query times, normalizing tables to eliminate redundant data, and creating stored procedures to automate common tasks.

The result was a 35% improvement in data retrieval times and significantly fewer errors related to data inconsistencies. This experience has honed my skills in database management and optimization.”

17. How have you utilized automation in your previous roles to improve efficiency?

This question is designed to assess your adaptability and innovation skills. As an IT professional, you’re expected to constantly look for ways to streamline processes and make operations more efficient. One such method is through the use of automation. By asking about your experience with automation, the interviewer wants to gauge your understanding of its potential benefits and whether you can creatively apply it to enhance productivity in the role you’re applying for.

Example: “In my experience, automation plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency. For instance, I implemented automated software updates and patch management across all systems. This not only reduced manual effort but also minimized downtime due to unexpected system issues.

I also utilized scripting for routine tasks like user account creation or deletion, which significantly cut down the time spent on these repetitive activities.

Moreover, by automating data backup processes, I ensured data safety while freeing up staff to focus on more strategic tasks.

These initiatives improved operational efficiency and allowed us to provide better service levels.”

18. What is your experience with managing user access and permissions?

Access management is a critical part of an IT technician’s job. Providing the right level of access to the appropriate individuals while maintaining security protocols is a balancing act that requires skill and diligence. By asking this question, hiring managers are seeking to understand your experience and comfort level with this important aspect of the role. They want to know if you can effectively manage user access and permissions without compromising security or disrupting necessary workflow.

Example: “I have extensive experience in managing user access and permissions. In my previous role, I was responsible for setting up and maintaining user accounts which involved granting appropriate levels of access based on their roles within the organization.

I’ve worked with Active Directory to manage group policies and permissions for different departments. This has given me a deep understanding of how to balance security needs with operational functionality.

Moreover, I am familiar with using Identity Access Management (IAM) tools that automate the process of controlling user access. These tools ensure only authorized individuals can access certain data or systems, enhancing overall network security.

In terms of troubleshooting, I’m adept at identifying and resolving issues related to access control, such as users being unable to access certain resources. My approach is always guided by best practices and compliance requirements.”

19. How would you handle a situation where you need to work with a difficult team member?

This question is a test of your interpersonal skills. In a field like IT, where teamwork can often be essential to solving complex problems or completing major projects, being able to work with all types of personalities is a must. Employers want to know that you can navigate difficult relationships and still get your job done efficiently and effectively.

Example: “In a situation with a difficult team member, I would first try to understand their perspective. This could involve direct communication to identify any issues or misunderstandings.

If this doesn’t resolve the issue, I’d leverage my technical skills to ensure our tasks are completed efficiently despite personal differences. For instance, using project management tools can help streamline collaboration and minimize friction.

As an IT technician, maintaining professionalism is crucial. So, regardless of the situation, I’d stay focused on delivering quality work while promoting a positive working environment.”

20. Can you discuss a time when you had to meet a tight deadline for a project?

This question is designed to gauge your ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and work under pressure. As an IT Technician, you will often face tight deadlines and urgent project demands. Demonstrating your ability to successfully navigate this kind of environment is important to potential employers. They want to see that you have the capacity to stay calm, make smart decisions, and deliver quality work, even when the clock is ticking.

Example: “In one instance, we had to implement a critical software update across the company within two days. This was challenging due to the size of our network and potential disruptions to operations.

I prioritized tasks effectively, coordinating with my team for efficient execution. We worked in shifts to ensure round-the-clock progress while minimizing downtime during peak business hours.

Despite the pressure, we successfully completed the update ahead of schedule. This experience reinforced the importance of teamwork, effective planning, and adaptability under tight deadlines.”

21. What is your approach to documenting IT processes and maintaining records?

As an IT technician, you’re not just a problem solver, but also a record keeper. Documentation is a key part of maintaining the health of an IT system. It helps in tracking changes, identifying patterns, and ensuring continuity in case of staff turnover. By asking this question, hiring managers want to evaluate your organizational skills and your commitment to keeping meticulous records, both of which are essential for smooth operation and future troubleshooting.

Example: “My approach to documenting IT processes involves using a combination of diagrams and written instructions. Diagrams help visualize complex processes, while written instructions provide detailed steps.

For record maintenance, I use digital tools like project management software or databases that allow easy access and updates. Regular audits ensure the records are accurate and up-to-date.

Keeping documentation clear, concise, and easily understandable is crucial for effective communication within the team and ensuring smooth operations.”

22. How have you managed vendor relationships in your previous roles?

Navigating vendor relationships is a critical part of an IT technician’s role. Whether it’s sourcing software, hardware, or services, the ability to successfully manage these relationships can impact a company’s bottom line and overall operational efficiency. This question aims to explore your negotiation skills, communication abilities, and your knack for fostering collaborative partnerships.

Example: “In managing vendor relationships, effective communication has been key. I ensured regular updates on both sides to keep track of progress and address issues promptly.

I also prioritized understanding each vendor’s capabilities and limitations. This helped in setting realistic expectations and avoiding potential conflicts.

Negotiation skills were crucial too. By striking a balance between our needs and the vendor’s, we achieved mutually beneficial agreements.

Finally, I utilized technology for efficient vendor management. Tools like Vendor Management Systems (VMS) streamlined processes, saving time and reducing errors.”

23. Can you describe a project where you had to use your knowledge of wireless networking?

This question seeks to uncover your hands-on experience with wireless networking. As an IT technician, you’ll often have to work with wireless networks, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and possibly even set up new networks. Your answer will give the interviewer a sense of your practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the depth of your understanding of wireless networking technology.

Example: “In a recent project, I was tasked with setting up a wireless network for a small business. The goal was to ensure seamless connectivity across the office.

I started by conducting a site survey to understand the layout and identify potential signal interferences. Based on this, I selected appropriate hardware including routers and repeaters.

The next step involved configuring the devices, ensuring security measures like WPA2 encryption were in place. Post-configuration, I conducted tests to check coverage, speed, and stability.

The project was successful, resulting in robust, secure wireless connectivity throughout the premises. This experience honed my practical skills in wireless networking, from planning to implementation and troubleshooting.”

24. What is your experience with disaster recovery planning?

Unexpected events can take a business offline, which can lead to productivity loss, data loss, and even revenue loss. As an IT technician, it’s your responsibility to prevent or at least minimize such occurrences. Hiring managers ask this question to gauge your ability to handle this responsibility and to understand your experience and skills in creating and implementing recovery plans to safeguard the company’s digital assets.

Example: “I have extensive experience in disaster recovery planning. In my previous role, I was responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive disaster recovery plan. This involved identifying potential risks, assessing the impact on business operations, and devising strategies to mitigate these risks.

My approach is always proactive rather than reactive. I believe in regular testing of the plan to ensure its effectiveness and making necessary updates as technology or business needs evolve.

Having successfully navigated several unexpected system failures with minimal downtime, I can confidently say that effective disaster recovery planning is critical in maintaining business continuity and minimizing losses.”

25. How have you dealt with a situation where you had to prioritize multiple tasks?

Juggling multiple tasks is a common scenario in the IT realm. From updating software systems to troubleshooting hardware issues, IT technicians can face a flurry of tasks daily. Your potential employer wants to ensure that you can not only handle the pressure of multiple demands but also manage your time effectively to prioritize and address these tasks. This question is designed to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle demanding situations.

Example: “In the IT field, prioritizing tasks is crucial. I usually start by assessing each task’s urgency and importance. For instance, a server down issue impacting multiple users would take precedence over a minor software update.

I also utilize project management tools to keep track of deadlines and progress. This helps me stay organized and ensures no task is overlooked.

Moreover, effective communication with team members and stakeholders is key in managing expectations and keeping everyone informed about the status of various tasks.”

26. Can you discuss a time when you had to adapt to a major change in technology or process?

Change is the only constant in the technology sector. If you’re working in IT, you need to be adaptable and willing to learn new skills. This question is asked to assess your ability to handle change, learn new things, and solve problems in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. It also helps interviewers gauge your flexibility and agility in response to changing circumstances or demands.

Example: “In one instance, our organization decided to transition from a traditional on-premise server setup to cloud-based solutions. It was a significant shift that required me to quickly adapt and learn new skills.

I took the initiative to enroll in online courses and sought help from experts in this field. I spent many hours learning about cloud computing concepts, benefits, and potential challenges.

The transition process was challenging but rewarding. We managed to move all our data to the cloud successfully, improving efficiency and reducing costs. This experience taught me how important it is to stay updated with technology trends and be adaptable in my role as an IT technician.”

27. What is your approach to training and supporting non-technical staff?

The essence of an IT technician’s role lies not only in resolving technical issues but also in empowering non-technical staff to use technology more effectively. This means you need to be patient and possess the ability to communicate complex technical issues in a simple and understandable manner. Hiring managers ask this question to assess your communication skills, empathy, and ability to adapt your technical knowledge to different audiences.

Example: “My approach to training non-technical staff involves simplifying complex concepts into easily understandable terms. I use visual aids, real-life examples, and hands-on exercises to make learning more engaging.

For support, I believe in proactive communication and patience. It’s crucial to provide a safe space where they feel comfortable asking questions or seeking help.

I also advocate for the creation of user-friendly guides and FAQs as reference materials that can empower them to resolve minor issues independently.”

28. Can you describe a project that required significant problem-solving skills?

As an IT technician, you’re often the go-to person when there’s a technical issue or challenge. Your problem-solving skills are critical to resolving these situations, and employers want to know about your approach to tackling difficult projects. By asking this question, hiring managers are seeking to understand your thought process, technical expertise, and how you handle pressure or frustration when faced with a challenging problem.

Example: “In one instance, our company’s network experienced a significant slowdown. I was tasked to identify and resolve the issue.

After conducting an initial assessment, it became clear that the problem wasn’t straightforward. The slowdown was intermittent and unpredictable.

I systematically isolated different parts of the network to pinpoint the source. This involved testing individual servers, switches, and routers.

The issue turned out to be a faulty network interface card in one of our main servers. It was intermittently dropping packets causing the overall performance degradation.

Replacing the card resolved the issue. This project required keen analytical skills, patience, and a deep understanding of networking principles.”

29. What is your experience with system audits and compliance?

This question seeks to uncover your familiarity with the critical aspects of IT operations that involve system audits and compliance. Both of these areas are essential for maintaining the security, efficiency, and legality of a company’s IT infrastructure. Your experience demonstrates your ability to identify potential issues, ensure systems meet specific requirements, and maintain the overall health of the IT environment.

Example: “I have substantial experience with system audits and compliance. During my career, I’ve performed regular audits to ensure data integrity and security. This involved checking software applications for potential vulnerabilities and making sure that all systems were compliant with industry standards.

My work also included implementing corrective measures when non-compliance issues were identified. Furthermore, I was responsible for creating comprehensive reports on audit findings and presenting them to the management team.

Understanding regulatory requirements and staying updated with changes is crucial in this role. Therefore, I regularly attend training sessions and webinars related to IT compliance and auditing.”

30. How do you handle stress and pressure in a highly technical, fast-paced environment?

Tech environments are often high-stress, high-pressure situations. Deadlines are tight, stakes are high and, in many cases, the whole company is relying on your team to keep everything running smoothly. Thus, employers need to be sure you can handle the pressure without buckling, keep up with the pace, and still perform your duties effectively.

Example: “In a high-pressure environment, I believe it’s crucial to maintain composure and prioritize tasks effectively. One strategy I use is breaking down complex problems into manageable parts. This approach not only makes the task less overwhelming but also allows for more efficient problem-solving.

Moreover, I ensure to take short breaks when needed to clear my mind and refocus. It helps me stay productive without compromising on the quality of work.

Lastly, I’m a strong advocate of continuous learning. Keeping myself updated with the latest technological advancements enables me to adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment.”

30 Middleware Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

30 school guidance counselor interview questions and answers, you may also be interested in..., 30 wastewater plant operator interview questions and answers, 30 product marketing manager interview questions and answers, 30 primary care physician interview questions and answers, 20 common senior auditor interview questions.

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

5 problem-solving questions to prepare you for your next interview

Jump to section

What is problem-solving, and why do hiring managers care so much about it?

How to answer problem-solving questions

Common problem-solving questions and answers, things to avoid when answering problem-solving questions, how to prepare for problem-solving interview questions, problem solved.

“How would you approach telling a manager that they’ve made a mistake ?” 

Hard problem-solving questions like these can catch you off guard in a job interview. They’re hard to prepare for if you don’t know they’re coming, and you might not even see why they’re relevant to the job.

Even the most experienced interviewees might feel like they’re giving a bad interview if they stumble on questions like these.

Preparing and practicing hard questions is one way to ease your fears. Learn to dissect what a hiring manager is really asking and answer problem-solving questions with confidence. 

What is problem-solving, and why do hiring managers care so much about it? 

Problem-solving is holistically understanding a problem, determining its cause, and identifying creative solutions . Many, if not most, job descriptions ask for problem-solving skills because regardless of industry, they’re an asset in the workplace.

Startups and tech companies like Google famously pose critical thinking and problem-solving questions in job interviews . But hiring managers from all industries use unique questions like these to understand your problem-solving skills. It’s not about the answer you give, or whether it’s correct, but the way you come to that conclusion.

In job interviews, problem-solving questions pose a potential problem or situation typical to the job you’re interviewing for. Your response shows your ability to respond to common problems, even on the spot. Depending on the question, it can also indicate other skills like:

Critical thinking

Communication

Dependability

Behavioral competency

Soft skills

Decision-making

The average business spends $4,700 hiring one new worker , so it wants to make sure you’re the right fit for the job. Even if you have the right skills and experience on paper, hiring managers need a comprehensive idea of what kind of worker you are to avoid choosing the wrong candidate.

Like standard behavioral interview questions , problem-solving questions offer interviewers a more well-rounded view of how you might perform on the job. 

Problem-solving questions encourage you to give answers about your past experiences, decision-making process , and ability to arrive at creative solutions . Learning how to answer questions in an interview means learning how to tell a good story , so your answer should have a clear structure, unique topic, and compelling journey to demonstrate your competencies.

The STAR method is a common technique for answering problem-solving interview questions clearly and thoughtfully. The acronym stands for situation, task, action, and result. It provides a simple structure that gives your response a smooth beginning, middle, and end.

Here’s how to use the STAR method to describe past on-the-job experiences or hypothetical situations: 

Situation: Start with a problem statement that clearly defines the situation. 

Task: Explain your role in the situation. What is, or would be your responsibility?

Action: Recount the steps or problem-solving strategies you used, or would use, to overcome the problem.

Result: Share what you achieved or would hope to resolve through your problem-solving process.

Every job requires problem-solving on some level, so you can expect at least one job interview question to ask about those skills. Here are a few common problem-solving interview questions to practice:

1. Give us an example of when you faced an unexpected challenge at work. What did you do to face it?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? Employers want to know that your problem-solving has a process. They want to hear you break down a problem into a set of steps to solve it.

Sample answer: I was working in sales for a wholesale retailer. A regular client wrongly communicated the pricing of a unit. I realized this immediately, and rather than pointing out the error, I quickly double-checked with my supervisor to see if we could respect the price.

I informed the client of the error and that we were happy to keep the price he was given. It made him feel like he'd gotten a fair deal and trusted my authority as a sales rep even more. The loss wasn't significant, but saving face in front of the client was.

2. How would you manage a frustrated client?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? They want to gauge your ability to stay cool and be patient in stressful situations, even when dealing with difficult people . Keep your answer professional, and don't use the opportunity to bad-mouth a past client. Show that you can stay respectful even if someone isn’t respecting you. 

Sample answer: I've had plenty of experience dealing with unhappy clients. I've learned two important things: their frustration isn’t a personal attack against me, and we have the same goal to solve the problem. Knowing that helps me stay calm, listen carefully to the client's situation, and do my best to identify where the situation went astray.

Once we identify the problem, if I can handle it myself, I communicate exactly what we’ll do for the client and how. What steps we’ll take depend on the client, but I always start by proposing solutions to show I care about a path forward, and then keep them updated on my progress to implementing that fix. 

3. Describe a time you made a mistake at work. How did you fix it?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? No one is above making an error. Employers want to know that you own up to and learn from your mistakes instead of getting frustrated and walking away from the problem.

Sample answer: My first managerial position was at a public relations agency. When I was promoted to work on client outreach, I struggled to learn to delegate my old responsibilities, which were writing social media copy. I was afraid to let go of control, and I was micromanaging . One day, I wrote out some copy, sent it out, and quickly realized I was using the wrong style guide in my haste.

The client noticed, and we had to work to regain their trust, which put a strain on the entire team. I took full responsibility and used that moment to understand that I wasn't trusting my team's abilities. I apologized to my team for overstepping boundaries and worked to let go of my old role completely.

4. Have you ever had a difficult time working with a team member? How did you deal with the situation?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? Even the most independent job requires some teamwork, whether it’s communicating with clients or other team members. Employers want to know that you can solve interpersonal problems, know when to escalate and help maintain a positive work environment.

Sample answer: At my last job, we were fully remote. I had a coworker that wasn't very communicative about their process, which led to redundancies in our work and miscommunications that set us behind. I asked them to have a one-on-one meeting with me so we could analyze where we were failing to communicate and how to improve.

It wasn't a comfortable process, but we developed a better practice to collaborate and improve our ability to work as a team , including weekly meetings and check-ins.

5. Tell me about a time you created an innovative solution with limited information or resources.

What’s a hiring manager really asking? They want to test your resourcefulness, which is a valuable soft skill. Using a “ Tell me about a time” question lets you demonstrate out-of-the-box thinking and shows that you don't quit when things get difficult. 

Sample answer: I worked in project management for a software developer. We were frequently going over budget and needed to limit spending. I instituted a new workflow app across departments and made everyone track every step of their process. We ended up finding information silos between design, sales, and product development.

They were all using different platforms to communicate the status of the same project, which meant we were wasting time and money. We centralized communication and improved operational efficiency, solved our budget problems, and increased productivity by 30%.

Problem-solving questions offer deep insights into the kind of worker you are. While your answer is important, so is your delivery. Here are some things to avoid when trying to answer problem-solving questions:

Don’t clam up: It's okay to take your time to reflect, but never abstain from answering. An interviewer will understand if you need to pause and think. If you’re really stumped, you can ask to return to that question later in the interview. 

Avoid generic answers: Generic answers show a lack of creativity and innovation . Use the opportunity to explain what makes you and your problem-solving process unique. 

Don’t lose confidence: How you answer is as important as what you answer. Do your best to practice confident body language, like eye contact and strong posture. Practicing ahead of time can help alleviate pressure while you’re answering.

Try not to rush: Rushing through an answer could make it unclear or incoherent, which might reflect poorly on your ability to keep a level head. Practice mindful breathing and pace yourself. Answer slowly and deliberately.

Preparing for an interview will make you feel more comfortable and confident during the hiring process. Rather than thinking of answers on the spot, you can pull from different responses you're already familiar with. Here are some tips for practicing and improving your answers:

Create a list of problem-solving examples from throughout your career. Consider varied past experiences that play into important skills, like time management, project management, or teamwork, to show that you're a well-rounded candidate.

Whenever possible, give metrics to show results. For example, if you improved productivity, share percentages. If you upped sales, share numbers.

Carefully study the job description and connect the skills you find with specific ways you’ve used them.

Identify what you’re good at and choose experiences that play to your strengths.

When talking about mistakes or errors, always finish with the lesson you learned and how you plan on avoiding the same mistake.

Provide details that a hiring manager can recognize within the position they’re hiring for.

It’s normal to feel nervous about a job interview, especially if you’re expecting difficult questions. Learning how to overcome that challenge is the perfect way to put your problem-solving skills to the test.

Like everything else in your career, practice makes perfect, and learning to answer tough problem-solving questions is no different. Take the time to recall moments in your career when you overcame challenges, and practice telling those stories. Craft an answer that hiring managers will be excited to hear.

Boost your productivity

Maximize your time and productivity with strategies from our expert coaches.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

10 Problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head

10 organizational skills that will put you a step ahead, what’s a project scope, and how do you write one, boost your productivity: how to avoid interruptions at work, why building a personal supply chain is key to productivity, how to prioritize tasks: 7 tips to perfect your workflow, 5 steps to build a priority matrix and organize your life, 8 time management skills to help reclaim your work-life balance, the 10 best work productivity tools to maximize your time, overcoming procrastination: 5 ways to stop putting off your success, 6 tips on how to answer promotion interview questions, hit the ground running with this ultimate 30-60-90 day plan, 17 best skills to put on your resume to stand out, learn to sweat the small stuff: how to improve attention to detail, the pareto principle: how the 80/20 rule can help you do more with less, strategic plan vs. work plan: what's the difference, 20 best productivity books and why you should read them, using the kaizen method for personal growth and success, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead™
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care®
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

How to Answer "What Is Your Approach to Problem-Solving?" (With Sample Answers)

November 27, 2023 by Robert Tyler

When preparing for job interviews, one common question you may encounter is, "What is your approach to problem-solving?" Answering this effectively showcases your critical thinking skills and adaptability---traits highly valued in any role.

Interviewers ask this to understand how you tackle challenges and whether your methodology aligns with their company's values and practices. Crafting a convincing response requires reflection on your past experiences and a clear articulation of your strategy in resolving issues.

Why Employers Ask This?

Employers are keen to understand how you tackle challenges in the workplace. Asking about your problem-solving strategy reveals several aspects about you, including your critical thinking skills and resilience. It's about gauging your approach when faced with obstacles.

• Analytical Abilities: Your answer illustrates your ability to break down complex issues. Employers value analytical thinking because it can lead to smart decisions and efficient work processes.
• Creativity: Sometimes, problems require out-of-the-box thinking. Your approach could highlight your creativity in coming up with innovative solutions.
• Decision-Making: How you solve problems shows your decision-making style under pressure. An employer may prefer a cautious, data-driven approach or a more decisive, action-oriented model.
• Teamwork: Complex challenges often need collaborative efforts. Your answer might give hints about your team dynamics and how you contribute effectively.
• Adaptability: Problems frequently arise unexpectedly. Showing your adaptability tells an employer about your readiness to face and navigate changes.

Remember, when you articulate your problem-solving process, you're also showcasing your communication skills, another important trait that employers look for. By understanding why employers ask this question, you can tailor your response to demonstrate these desirable qualities effectively.

How To Answer This Question?

When articulating your approach to problem-solving in an interview, it's important to demonstrate a structured method while showing your ability to adapt and think critically. Use these strategies to frame your answer effectively.

The STAR Method

Situation: Begin by setting the context for the challenge you faced. Task: Clarify what your responsibility or goal was in that situation. Action: Explain the specific actions you took to address the problem. Result: Conclude with the outcome of your efforts.

Employing the STAR method structures your response, ensuring you cover all necessary details without digressing. For instance, when confronted with a complex problem , clearly outlining the situation and the task at hand forms a solid foundation for your explanation.

Critical Thinking and Initiative

• Critical Thinking: Break down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts. Analyze each component to understand the broader issue.
• Initiative: Take proactive steps by gathering resources or seeking additional information that can lead to a resolution.

By displaying your critical thinking skills, you demonstrate to interviewers your capacity to logically dissect and address complex problems . Combining this with initiative shows you're not waiting for directions but are prepared to act.

Adaptability and Creativity

• Adaptability: Be ready to pivot your strategy if initial solutions aren't effective.
• Creativity: Encourage thinking outside of typical frameworks to uncover novel solutions.

Champion your ability to modify your approach in the face of unforeseen challenges, portraying adaptability . Your willingness to think outside the box suggests creativity in generating innovative solutions to problems.

Understanding the Role and Its Challenges

To effectively tailor your answer to the job context, begin by carefully examining the role you're applying for. Look into the company's sector, its products or services, and the typical challenges it faces. This insight will let you highlight examples from your past experiences that are directly applicable to the organization's needs. For instance, if the position requires quick solutions to technical problems, focus on your ability to rapidly diagnose and address issues.

Emphasizing Relevant Skills and Experience

Your answer should demonstrate that you possess both the skills and the experience required to excel in the role. Create a concise list of the skills that are most relevant to the job and weave these into your response:

• Analytical Skills : Describe times when you successfully identified the root cause of a problem.
• Creative Thinking : Give examples of how you've developed innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Adaptability : Highlight instances where you've adjusted your problem-solving methods to fit new information or changing contexts.

Be specific about how your skills have helped previous organizations overcome challenges, and mention any achievements that had a significant impact. Your goal is to paint a clear, confident picture of your qualifications in a way that feels bespoke to the position at hand.

Sample Answers

Crafting your response to "What is your approach to problem-solving?" can set you apart in an interview. Use specifics from your past experiences to demonstrate your methodology and how you overcome obstacles.

Answer for a Structured Problem-Solving Example

"I faced a significant inventory discrepancy when I worked as a warehouse supervisor. To address this, I segmented the problem into clear steps. First, I conducted a thorough audit of our stock. Next, I analyzed discrepancies and tracked them to their sources, which turned out to be a procedural error in logging returns. By implementing corrective measures and monitoring closely, I brought the error margin down from 5% to 0.5% within three months."

Answer Demonstrating Creative Problem-Solving

"In my role as a graphic designer for a marketing firm, I was tasked with creating a campaign that cut through the noise. Understanding that conventional formats were failing to make an impact, I chose to take a risk with an interactive, augmented reality experience. This approach allowed for significant engagement, resulting in a 150% increase in user interaction over previous campaigns."

Answer Highlighting Leadership in Problem-Solving

"When my team was falling behind on a critical project milestone due to underestimation of the project's complexity, I stepped up to realign our efforts. I reorganized the team based on individual strengths and created a transparent system to track progress. As a result, not only did we meet the deadline, but also fostered a stronger, more collaborative team culture ."

Your approach to problem-solving speaks volumes about your ability to handle workplace tasks. Are you the type who dives straight into the details, or do you start with a broad overview and narrow down from there? Perhaps you're someone who values collaborative efforts and seeks input from colleagues to arrive at a comprehensive solution.

Demonstrating a structured technique can impress your interviewer, indicating that you're not only resourceful but also systematic and efficient in facing obstacles. Remember, the interviewer is interested not just in the result but also in how you arrived there---your thought pattern, decision-making process, and ability to foresee and mitigate complications are all under scrutiny.

If you are searching for a remote job and need help finding where to look? DailyRemote is a remote job board with the latest jobs in various categories to help you. Join like-minded people in our LinkedIn and Facebook community.

Explore Other Interview Questions

How to Answer "How Do You Handle Criticism"?

How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself?" in an Interview?

How to Answer "What is your Experience with Customer Service"?

How to Answer "Describe Your Experience Working With Diverse Teams Or Different Cultures"?

How to Answer The Interview Question "What Sets You Apart From Other Candidates"?

How to Answer "Why Are You The Best Person For This Job"?

How to Answer "Tell Me About A Time When You Had To Balance Competing Priorities"?

How to Answer "Why Should We Hire You"?

How to Answer "What Areas Need Improvement"?

How to Answer "Tell Me About A Time When You Had to Work Under Pressure?"

How to Answer “Tell Me About a Time You Received Constructive Feedback”?

How to Answer "What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment"?

Get Access To 40,000+ Remote-Only Jobs

• Verified and Handpicked Jobs
• Daily Job Alerts
• Filter By Salary
• No Ads, No Junk

DAILYREMOTE

Remote work tips, remote job roles, remote jobs, remote job resources.

The most common technical interview questions (and how to answer them)

If you're applying for jobs in the tech sector, you will almost certainly have to answer some technical interview questions before long. Technical interview questions can be different from a more traditional job interview, so it’s important to know what to expect. Here are some of the type of questions you might face:

• In what programming language or languages are you proficient?
• How do you troubleshoot problems?
• What are the differences between A, AA, and AAA WCAG compliance?
• What are the pros and cons of working in an Agile workspace?

This article will teach you how you can prepare for technical interviews. It will include technical interview questions and answers, as well as some valuable technical interview tips.

• What is a technical interview?

A technical interview is a common way for employers to assess candidates for science, engineering, or IT roles. They are interviews that test your technical knowledge and ability. Hiring managers will ask specific questions about the tools and technologies related to the position.

Technical interviews can take place in person, over the phone, or online. Their length can range from an hour to a whole day.

Technical interview questions are often a mix of standard interview questions, situational questions, problem-solving questions, and technical proficiency tests.

Hiring managers ask these kinds of questions to learn more about your technical skills and abilities. Additionally, hiring managers may also want to get an insight into your approach to problem-solving on the job and how your process will fit with the company culture.

• The different types of technical interview questions

You can break down the most common technical interview questions into four main categories:

Behavioural questions

Behavioural questions are common in most types of job interview. Many technical interviews start with a set of general questions that hiring managers use to get a sense of the candidate and how they might fit inside the company culture.

An example of this type of question could be:

• Can you explain your role in the most recent project you worked on?

Situational questions

Hiring managers ask situational questions to get a sense of how you deal with common workplace problems or situations. Situational questions often come in the form of hypothetical situations that the candidate has to resolve. They may also ask for real examples of situations from your past.

An example of this type of question is:

• Tell me about a time that you made a significant error. What did you do to resolve it?

Technical education questions

Hiring managers ask about a candidate's education to understand how prepared they are for a specific role. Technical jobs are often very specialized, so employers need to know how each candidate's education, accomplishments, and qualifications are relevant.

• How has your education prepared you for this position?

Technical questions

Hiring managers ask technical questions to assess your technical skills, knowledge, and experience. They do this to verify your qualifications, and to see how well you can communicate difficult technical concepts. Your answer can also give interviewers an idea of how you think and work.

• What tool or language is the best choice for this project?

• How to answer technical interview questions

Technical interviews can come in many shapes and sizes. When you are working out how to prepare for a technical interview, you'll need to think about the different methods and techniques you can use to come up with a satisfactory answer.

How to answer behavioural questions in a technical interview

One of the best and most reliable methods for answering behaviour-based technical interview questions is the STAR method. This is a simple framework that helps candidates tell a story about their work experience that will resonate with hiring managers.

STAR is an acronym that stands for:

Situation : Describe a circumstance or situation you were in Task : Explain your goal or responsibilities in the situation Action : Describe in detail what steps you took to resolve the situation Result : Detail the outcomes of your actions

Here's a question you could answer using the STAR method:

"Tell me about a time that you made a significant error and what you did to resolve it."

Coming up with a situation from your past that can be used as an example can be difficult. If you have to discuss a mistake, for example, it shouldn’t be too extreme or reflect poorly on your character. Stories about lying, gross negligence, or breaches of confidentiality will harm your chances of getting the job.

However, even if you have to talk about a mistake, you can show that you acted with integrity, took responsibility, and resolved the issue. An honest answer can really show your credibility. Errors happen in the workplace every day. We all make mistakes, but it's how we resolve them that is important.

Here is a possible answer:

Situation : I had just started working for an accounting software company a few weeks previously.

Task : I was updating code on our SaaS platform. However, I forgot about a line of code in our application. I had tested the change before deploying, but hadn't realized that it was connected to another part of the application in an unorthodox way.

My mistake caused a display error and slowed down our client's workflow. When the clients called up to ask what was happening, I immediately realized I was at fault.

Action : The first thing that I did was go to my manager. I explained to her that I had made an error in my latest update. The team pulled together to fix the error and quickly redeployed the application.

Result : After the incident, I was worried that management would think I wasn't up to the job. However, because my code was typically error-free, they said they understood and that it could have happened to anyone. New testing measures were put in place, and we avoided any more similar errors.”

How to answer other technical interview questions

While the STAR method is perfect for many questions, it is best used for open-ended behavioural or situational questions. Other technical interview questions may require something different.

So, if you are wondering how to prepare for technical interview questions that deal with skills, knowledge, or problem solving, here are a few technical interview tips to help you stand out from the crowd.

#1. Explain your reasoning

When answering a question, talk through the steps you take to come up with an answer. This will give employers an idea of how you solve problems and highlight your understanding of the relevant concepts. Even if you don’t arrive at the correct answer, your process may be enough to satisfy your interviewer.

Working out the problem in your head and then answering isn't the best way to impress your interviewer. Your reasoning can be just as important as the answer itself.

#2. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification

If you are asked a question, but you feel that you need more information to give the correct answer, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. It won't make you look like a weak candidate to ask for more information. If anything, it will show that you appreciate the complexity of the question. Additionally, it will help you answer correctly.

#3. Be honest

Sometimes you'll be asked a question that is outside the scope of your education or experience. You have two choices here: guess or admit that you don't know the answer.

Neither situation is ideal, but admitting you don't know the answer is usually the best choice. After all, we can't know everything. The best way to deal with this situation is to say that you're not sure about the answer, but go on to explain how you would find the information if you faced this situation on the job.

You can also consider writing down the question so you can research it after your interview. You could then reach out to the hiring manager afterwards with what you learned. Following up like this isn't something that you should do too often, but it might make a difference if you are neck and neck with another candidate.

• Common technical interview questions and answers

In a technical interview, you'll be required to answer many types of questions about your skills, the tools you are familiar with, and your leadership skills.

Here are some common examples of technical interview questions and answers to help you impress your interviewer.

What programming languages are you proficient in?

The best way to answer this question is to mention all the different coding languages you're comfortable using. From there, choose the language that you work best with, and explain some of its advantages. Elaborating on the reasons you use particular tools is a great way to demonstrate your understanding.

Example Answer:

"Due to my work experience, I'm comfortable with several coding languages, like Visual Basic, C++, and Python. However, the language I've used for most of my professional career is JavaScript. I like JavaScript for its speed, simplicity, and its interoperability with other languages."

When would you choose to denormalize your database design?

Complex technical interview questions like this are a way for hiring managers to test your knowledge. The best answers will highlight your understanding of the relevant concepts, like advantages and disadvantages of a particular method, or the use-case for a specific tool. In this case, the question is about denormalization.

Denormalization is a technique that is used to optimize database design. However, it's best used to optimize the performances of specific queries. One disadvantage of denormalization is that it can result in the need for extra storage.

When answering this question, it's essential to explain the advantages and disadvantages of the process and detail when you might employ denormalization.

Example answer:

"Denormalization is a database design technique that is used to improve the lookup speed of specific queries. The way it achieves this is by adding redundant data to particular tables.

The process makes it quicker to find data, but the redundancies add more storage and affect the functionality of your database. If I was designing a database where many users needed to generate a report, I would consider denormalization to enhance speed and performance."

What is a SAN? Why is it used?

A hiring manager might ask technical interview questions like this one to test your knowledge of networks. Someone with IT experience should be able to answer this question, so use it as an opportunity to show hiring managers that you can easily explain technical concepts in simple terms.

"A SAN is a Storage Area Network. They are high-speed networks that give access to block-level storage. The SAN achieves high speeds by removing pressure from the Local Area Network by shifting traffic and storage devices onto a dedicated network.

SAN can be used to improve data security, increase scalability, and reduce LAN bandwidth issues."

What is Clickjacking?

If you're applying for a cybersecurity job, you will probably face some technical interview questions about IT security threats. These questions are designed to demonstrate your technical knowledge, as well as how up-to-date you are on different malicious activities that can affect information security. You should know about Clickjacking, as well as any other common security threats.

"Clickjacking is a type of cyber attack that tricks a user into clicking on a disguised or invisible web page element. It's also known as user interface redressing because it "redresses" the webpage's actual UI and redirects users towards various types of malware, like malicious pages, or captures sensitive information."

What are the main differences between A, AA, and AAA WCAG compliance?

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines are policies that user interface (UI) and web designers need to know about. Failure to meet these guidelines — which regulate web design for people living with disabilities — can lead to fines.

Hiring managers will ask questions about compliance protocols to see how much you understand about designing compliant websites and test your overall awareness of tech industry issues.

"WCAG is short for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. These standards are used to help develop web pages that are accessible to everyone — including those living with disabilities.

The different ratings are used to grade how compliant a website is. Single-A is the bare minimum requirement that web pages, apps, and other kinds of documents should comply with.

Double-A is considered a good level of accessibility and includes compatibility with assistive technology.

Triple-A is the highest level of compliance. Websites should be legible, provide simplified versions of texts, and meet all the other guidelines of A and AA."

What online resources do you regularly use to help you with your job?

Hiring managers ask technical interview questions like these to test how interested and up-to-date the candidate is with the tech community. While many IT professionals use resources like GitHub and Stack Exchange, hiring managers might also be interested your involvement in more specialist spaces.

Depending on what role you are applying to, there may be specific publications, website sections, or even thought-leaders that you should name check. The main thing here is to appear passionate and eager to learn.

"I have an account on Github for my personal projects, but I also regularly browse Stack Exchange, Stack Overflow, and other forums. Additionally,I listen to topical technology podcasts when I drive to work, and I’m subscribed to several newsletters.

While I do keep up on industry news online, I think the best way to learn is with developer communities like Hackernoon. I'm very active there and have shared and learned a lot over the years."

Tell me about a challenging problem you and your team faced and how you resolved it

Technical interview questions like these are a way for hiring managers to understand how you work. A good answer will help convince them you have good problem-solving skills and highlight your teamwork, communication, and collaborative approaches.

Open-ended questions like this are great for the STAR technique that we highlighted earlier.

"My team and I had a problem with a project last year when our software solution didn't work. The platform was meant to simplify our accounts process; however, our orders weren't getting billed correctly once we installed it.

I liaised with our sales team, the third-party vendor, and the accounts receivable department to figure out the issue. The software solution couldn't capture some data that was required for billing. We realized it needed to be customized.

I met with sales and accounts receivable to see what they required. Then, I spoke to the vendor, and we negotiated the custom data fields we'd need for the process to work. This fix solved the issues.

The company is still using the software. Some of the other customizations we requested at the time have improved the efficiency of our billing process by 30%."

You realize a project is going to miss its deadline. What do you do?

This technical interview question strikes at the heart of something that many people in the tech industry face: tight deadlines. There are a few things that hiring managers will want to know about here, including your problem-solving skills, how you communicate, and how you might negotiate for the extra time and resources accomodate the delays.

Technical interview questions of this kind are also an opportunity to show that you appreciate that your work impacts others. Everyone is human, and sometimes deadlines get missed. But this question is an opportunity to show that you have resilience in the face of a crisis and that you never give up.

"In my first role as a developer, I was assigned a project that required building a new app. It was a fast-moving and busy team that wasn't too proactive about providing support unless asked. I was learning on the job and started struggling and running out of time.

I came to my boss and explained the situation. He understood immediately and admitted he'd been distracted by managing other projects.

He assigned another team member to work alongside me, and we got the app finished on time. The client was delighted, and my boss was happy I'd addressed the issue before it got out of control. I learned a valuable lesson that day to never be shy to ask for support."

How do you explain technical concepts to people without technical backgrounds? Give an example.

Tech companies are made up of lots of people with different backgrounds. Sales, marketing, and even management won't always have strong technical knowledge. However, they'll need to understand concepts and projects relevant to their work.

Practice taking technical, difficult-to-grasp concepts and describing them so that someone who doesn’t have your technical knowledge will understand them.

Technical interview questions of this type are a test of your communication skills and your ability to translate complex issues to others. Even if you haven’t had to communicate technical concepts in a professional setting, this is an important skill to have.

"I have a lot of practice explaining technical concepts from talking to my parents. They call me asking all sorts of questions about the internet and WiFi, TV, and other appliances around the house.

With my mother and with non-technical workmates, I tend to use analogies to help them visualize concepts. If that doesn't work, I look at introductory videos and see how they explain these topics. Then I take another run at explaining the idea."

What product have you worked on that you are most proud of?

Technical interview questions that ask about your past achievements are a good way for hiring managers to learn about your skills. Additionally, it can give them a sense of your working style and your ability to collaborate with a team.

This is an opportunity to really sell yourself as a great candidate. While humility has its place, sometimes you need to let an interviewer know what they'll be missing out on if they don't hire you.

And if you're going to talk about your achievements, it's a good idea to back it up with hard data.

"The project I’m proudest of was an automated allocation system for a busy courier business. The setup was fully manual, but the owners wanted to reduce overheads and increase efficiency with a computerized platform.

While many loosely similar systems had been built that dealt with single journeys, this courier company wanted something that could allocate multiple different ad-hoc parcels to be collected and dropped off at different times.

I pulled a vast amount of historic GPS and allocation data and extracted patterns to see what worked and why parcels were running late. I also built a grading system for the couriers that tiered their ability.

Once I built the new allocation system, efficiency improved by 25%, and the company saved more than $100,000 on staff overheads.”

What tools and strategies you use to meet goals and KPIs?

IT and tech involve project planning and testing. Hiring managers ask technical interview questions like these to see if you have used project management software and how experienced you are with meeting deadlines.

A good way to answer this question is to share your experience with project management tools. Additionally, it's a chance to show what strategies you use to meet your goals.

"I've used the Productboard product management software in my last two positions. It's a great tool that plays a significant role in project delivery. It works as a central hub where our team can meet each morning and work out what tasks need to be completed for the day. It's also an opportunity for me to check if anyone needs anything.

I used Productboard to keep up to date on what's happening before the meetings, so I know what we'll need to do."

Community Success Manager & CV Writing Expert

Ben is a writer, customer success manager and CV writing expert with over 5 years of experience helping job-seekers create their best careers. He believes in the importance of a great resume summary and the power of coffee.

The top hiring and human resource statistics for 2024, including data on AI resumes, job interviews, remote work, and recruiting.

December 8, 2023

For every open position there is a perfect resume, but no resume is perfect for every open position. Every job you apply to needs its own customized resume that is tailored for that specific job title and description. In this guide, we will outline the steps to customizing your resume for every application.

September 4, 2020

Learn how your resume can beat the applicant tracking system (ATS) with keywords and the right resume template.

February 7, 2022

Copyright © 2024 Workstory Inc.

Select Your Language:

Hired is now LHH Recruitment Solutions

As of June 14, 2024, Hired is part of LHH Recruitment Solutions , the premier partner for companies seeking contract and direct-hire roles.

The decision to bring together Hired and LHH’s offerings reflects the changes we’re seeing in the job market, and the opportunity to deliver a more comprehensive, integrated offering. This includes professional recruitment , career mobility , leadership development , outplacement , and  executive career advisory solutions .

LHH has a long-established Tech Practice, working with companies of all sizes, across tech areas including software development, IT infrastructure, business systems, data, and leadership.

If you’re looking for your next opportunity, we encourage you to apply for an open role  and submit a resume . You can also check out the Job Seeker Hub , a comprehensive resource tailored to support your career journey.

If you’ve got a role to fill, contact us  to learn how we can support you in your quest for top talent.

For job seekers

Soft Skills

Problem solving.

Upon completion of these materials, students will know the importance of problem-solving skills, and tips to help them improve.

Access to MyCareerTech materials requires a teacher login; students never log in.

Teacher Login

First time user? Login using your school password. If you would like to register, please contact us .

Follow MyCareerTech

Need Help? Watch this Short Video

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the program.

MyCareerTech is completely free for all teachers and students. Access any or all of our expanding library of lessons whenever you like.

What CTE clusters do you offer lessons?

You can explore each of the Workforce Readiness, or Career-tech lessons available through the MyCareerTech.com homepage. Simply hover over the Lessons tab from the main menu or browse through the Lessons section further down the page.

Do you offer printed materials?

MyCareerTech.com is intended to be used as a paperless, online learning platform. This allows us to be able to continue to provide relevant and up to date materials. However, some components of the lesson such as lesson plans and certificates of completion are printable documents.

How do students login?

Students do not login or register with MyCareerTech.com. Each lesson comes with a link to an online student test. When students receive the link, they enter their information before taking the test. Upon completion of the test, students are entered into the grade book for that lesson for the teacher to view.

How do I register my students?

Teachers do not register or upload students with MyCareerTech.com. Each lesson comes with a link to an online student test. When students receive the link, they enter their information before taking the test. Upon completion of the test, students are entered into the grade book for that lesson for the teacher to view.

My school offers classes in another cluster, can I tell my co-workers about this?

Absolutely! Feel free to share our resources with any teachers that you feel will find some value.

I have additional questions, who can I contact?

We’ll be happy to help. Please contact our program coordinator, Michelle Krause at 678-438-3758 or [email protected]

How do I sign up?

Click here to Contact Us and we'll reply within 2 business days.

I’m not currently enrolled in school, can I access the materials??

Yes! Click here to Contact Us and we'll reply within 2 business days.