How to Answer: When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Caterpillar job interview.
3. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
What You Need to Know
This question aims to reveal your approach to addressing sudden priority shifts and your propensity to think quickly on your feet. The interviewer wants to know if you are resourceful and adaptable to shifting priorities. That could speak to your emotional intelligence. For many, when problems arise, their stress can result in task paralysis. When it comes to complex problem solving, the decisions do not always come easily. Learning what decisions yield the best results often takes practice, experience, and confidence. Your interview is curious whether you'll demonstrate the skill and confidence required to react swiftly when the need arises.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 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. For example, last week, we had an administrative employee no-show on a critical and busy day. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in just one hour."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergencies. 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."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 2022