How to Answer: When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Bristol Myers Squibb job interview.
3. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Another core value at Bristol-Myers Squibb is urgency; the staff moves together with speed and quality to provide patient solutions. Decisions may not always arrive quickly when it comes to complex problem-solving at Bristol-Myers Squibb. Your interviewer wants to hear that you have the knowledge and wits to handle complications speedily on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Problems that require you to act quickly could include knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a small grease fire in the company kitchen or being asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if you are prepared to take it on. Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises at Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond calmly. I am a natural leader, and my team often looks to me for answers. Last week, an administrative employee no-showed on a busy day. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in just one hour."
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergencies on the job and look forward to bringing my calm and smart approach to quick problem solving here to Bristol-Myers Squibb. 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 quickly overview the facts and make a decision based on risk factors. I never hesitate to pull in a team member for their thoughts."
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 28th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
I usually go with my gut feeling- but I quickly assess the situation around me----"
Cindy's Feedback