If you want to stand out in a job interview, you’ll need more than just the right outfit or an impressive resume; you’ve got to show off your ability to tackle challenges and solve problems. Employers increasingly value problem-solving skills, so you need to be ready to demonstrate those skills convincingly. Here’s how you can position yourself as a problem solver, not a problem bringer.
A common question you’re likely to face is some version of: “Tell me about a time when you lacked the necessary skills or knowledge to complete an assignment.” Other versions of this question could include, “Tell me about a time when you faced a significant challenge/problem at work” or “Tell me about when you faced a significant obstacle at work.”
Your response to this question can be a game-changer because it gives you a chance to show off your adaptability, resourcefulness, and determination to overcome hurdles. And as we know from the Hiring For Attitude research, these types of attitudes are exponentially more important in determining the success of new hires.
Let’s dissect some examples of real-life responses to distinguish effective portrayals of problem-solving skills from those that fall short.
Example 1:
Poor Response: “I was requested to cold call customers, and I had no sales training. I asked for sales training for over a year before I was granted access to any training material.”
This response shows a lack of initiative and resourcefulness. The candidate waited passively for solutions instead of actively seeking knowledge or improving their skills. They failed to demonstrate any proactive steps they took to address the gap in their abilities.
Better Response: “Faced with the challenge of cold calling without any prior sales training, I took it upon myself to bridge the knowledge gap. I consumed online resources, podcasts, and sought advice from seasoned sales representatives to grasp effective sales techniques. Though it was a steep learning curve, my proactive learning paid off, as reflected in my improved call-to-meeting conversion rates.”
This answer showcases proactivity, resourcefulness, and the willingness to learn independently. It highlights a hands-on approach to problem-solving and the determination to overcome professional hurdles without hand-holding.
Example 2:
Poor Response: “I was given a task to complete with absolutely no direction. I was dumbfounded, especially when none of my peers stepped forward to give me any direction. I mean, what did they expect me to do?”
This response signals a passive attitude towards challenges and a preference for being spoon-fed information. There’s no demonstration of effort to understand the task, seek guidance, or take incremental steps towards a solution.
Better Response: “When tasked with an assignment in unfamiliar territory, I first acknowledged what I didn’t know. I took the initiative to engage with colleagues who had relevant experience, requested a brief session to understand the task’s nuances, and then conducted additional research. This approach not only allowed me to complete the assignment efficiently but also broadened my skill set for future projects.”
This narrative emphasizes the ability to take charge in ambiguous situations, seek help proactively, and engage in self-directed learning. It portrays a candidate unafraid of acknowledging their knowledge gaps and taking definitive steps to fill them.
Example 3:
Poor Response: “We didn’t have any processes in place. Customers always complained about our billing system. I constantly found myself telling them I didn’t have an answer because there were zero processes.”
The candidate displays a tendency to blame the circumstances, showing no inclination toward initiating change or finding a solution. They passively accept the status quo instead of advocating for improvements.
Better Response: “Recognizing the consistent issues with our billing process, I proposed a meeting with the team to brainstorm solutions. I also researched industry best practices for billing systems. We then implemented a more streamlined process, dramatically reducing client complaints and enhancing overall satisfaction.”
This response illustrates leadership, initiative, and the willingness to address and rectify systemic issues. The candidate doesn’t just identify the problem; they play an active role in solving it, showcasing their value as a proactive team member.
When you’re in a job interview, remember that potential employers are not just looking at your qualifications on paper. They want to see a proactive mindset, the ability to adapt to new scenarios, and a knack for turning challenges into opportunities. Frame your experiences with these qualities in mind. By articulating specific instances where you’ve actively sought solutions, learned new skills on your own, or innovated processes, you’ll reinforce your reputation as a valuable problem-solving asset to any team.
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