Question Overview: This question can help to determine the candidate's self awareness and confidence in their own abilities.
Sample Answer: I have a proven track record of success in managing complex projects and teams, and I am confident that I can bring those skills to your organization.
Question Overview: The nature of project management is inherently stressful, and the ability to manage stress and keep a cool head under pressure is a key quality in a good project manager.
Sample Answer: I try to take time for myself throughout the day to get away from the office and take a walk or go for a run. I also try to keep my schedule as flexible as possible so that I can be available to my team when they need me, but also have the space to take care of myself.
Question Overview: Every project has its share of risks, and the ability to identify and mitigate potential problems is a key skill for a project manager. This question can help to determine how the candidate approaches risk management, and how they will protect the project from potential pitfalls.
Sample Answer: I always try to identify potential risks and issues as early as possible in the project planning process, so that we can work to mitigate them before they become a problem. I also make sure to keep the team informed of any potential issues as they arise so that we can work together to find solutions.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the candidate's level of motivation and commitment to the position. A good project manager must be passionate about their work, and willing to put in the time and effort required to get the job done.
Sample Answer: I am looking for a new challenge, and I believe that this position will allow me to take on new responsibilities and grow my skills as a project manager.
Question Overview: A good project manager must be able to manage both their own time and the time of their team. This question helps to understand how the candidate prioritizes their own workload and how they delegate tasks to their team.
Sample Answer: I am a very hands on manager who likes to be involved in all aspects of the project. I like to be available to the team for questions and concerns, and I like to be involved in the day-to-day activities of the project.
Question Overview: A good project manager is able to work well with their team and their manager. This question can help to determine how well the candidate works with others, and how they approach conflict resolution.
Sample Answer: I disagreed with my manager when he wanted me to change the scope of the project without considering the impact on the timeline or budget. I was able to convince him that we could meet his objectives by adjusting the timeline slightly and reallocating resources.
Question Overview: This question can help to determine how the candidate manages their team on a day to day basis.
Sample Answer: I try to keep the team as self-sufficient as possible, while still providing the support and guidance they need to get the job done. I try to keep my door open and make myself available for questions and concerns, but I also try to give the team the space they need to get the job done.
Question Overview: A project manager must be able to approach a project with a clear understanding of the goals, objectives and deliverables. This question can help to determine how the candidate approaches a new project and how they plan to execute on their responsibilities.
Sample Answer: I like to start by getting a clear understanding of the project goals and objectives, which helps me to create a plan of action that will help us meet those goals. I like to keep things simple and focus on the most important tasks first, so that we can get the project off on the right foot.
Question Overview: A project manager must be able to lead and inspire a team. This question can help to determine how the candidate will approach this challenge.
Sample Answer: I believe in being a hands on leader who is approachable and open to feedback from the team. I try to create an environment where team members feel comfortable approaching me with questions or concerns, and I try to be flexible in my approach to each project.
Question Overview: This question is used to determine if the candidate is available to start work immediately.
Sample Answer: I am available to start work immediately.
Question Overview: This question can help to gauge the candidate's level of satisfaction with their previous projects and how they feel about the work they've done.
Sample Answer: I am very proud of the work that I've done on this project. I was able to successfully manage a team of over 20 people and ensure that all deliverables were met on time and on budget.
Question Overview: The Project Management Professional certification is a globally recognized standard for project management. While it is not required for the position, it is a good indicator of the candidate's commitment to their field and their ability to lead and manage a team.
Sample Answer: I do not have my PMP certification yet, but I am currently working on my application.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the candidate's ability to work with others and their level of self awareness.
Sample Answer: I would describe my colleagues as hardworking, dedicated and loyal.
Question Overview: This question can help to determine what the candidate's personal vision is for their career and how they see themselves in the role.
Sample Answer: I want to be a project manager who is able to work with a team to achieve the project goals and objectives, while keeping an eye on the bigger picture and ensuring that we are always on track to meet the project goals.
Question Overview: The ability to manage time effectively is a key skill for any project manager. This question can help to determine how the candidate approaches their work and how they prioritize their time.
Sample Answer: I am very organized and I keep a detailed schedule of my day to day activities. I try to be as efficient as possible with my time and I make sure to leave time for meetings and other tasks that are important to the project.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the candidate's career goals and how they see themselves fitting into the company's long term plans.
Sample Answer: I would like to continue to grow and develop my skills as a project manager, and eventually take on more senior level responsibilities within the company.
Question Overview: Project management is a broad field that covers a number of different areas and responsibilities. This question can help to determine what the candidate values most in their role as a project manager.
Sample Answer: I believe that the most important part of project management is the ability to effectively communicate with every member of the team, and to keep them motivated and focused on the project goal.
Question Overview: This question is intended to gauge the candidate's ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to common problems.
Sample Answer: I would suggest that we look into outsourcing some of the more time consuming tasks to a third party provider. This would free up internal resources to focus on more pressing matters and allow us to meet our project deadlines.
Question Overview: A good project manager is able to keep up with the latest trends and methodologies in their field. This question can help to determine how well the candidate is able to adapt to new situations and challenges.
Sample Answer: I am constantly researching and learning about new methodologies and best practices in my field, and I try to incorporate these into my projects whenever possible.
Question Overview: This question can help to gauge the candidate's level of interest in the position and company, and their understanding of the company's mission and goals.
Sample Answer: I was drawn to the company's reputation for excellence in the field, and I am excited to be a part of a team that is making a difference in the industry.