How to Answer: How do you manage your priorities when multitasking becomes necessary?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Facebook job interview.
26. How do you manage your priorities when multitasking becomes necessary?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In any Meta behavioral interview, they will assess each candidate for signals that correlate with what they view as attributes of success. One of these is "Embracing ambiguity: How do you operate in an ambiguous and quickly changing environment? Are you comfortable making decisions and maintaining high levels of productivity when you are missing information or lack clarity? How did you react when you had to quickly pivot away from a project due to a shift in priority?" How you answer will help your interviewer determine your experience level, and whether you are ready for this opportunity.
Written by Kevin Downey on January 17th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Too often, when managing multiple priorities, it's common for one's time management to be undermined, resulting in losing track of where you left off in your work, increasing the likelihood of losing track of a time-sensitive priority in the midst of various distractions. At Meta, "work is multi-functional and requires an evolving set of skills, prioritizing multiple assignments quickly, multitasking and changing direction quickly, looking ahead, anticipating needs, and making needed adjustments." Reflect on the systems and processes you employ to track your work, maintain strong attention to detail, and assist in not losing track of any of your work when more pressing priorities arise. You want to showcase that you are capable of performing at a high standard in a variety of challenging environments.
Written by Kevin Downey on January 17th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I start by analyzing each task to determine its priority, necessity, and impact. From there, I make notations on the work I am temporarily setting aside, and where I left off. Once that's done, I focus my attention on where I have the highest potential to make an impact. Also, I often determine where to focus my attention based on time management, and the time I have to work with. I delegate tasks when I can and commit until I deliver on all of my obligations. I take ownership of my work and have never had I under-delivered on a deadline."
Written by Kevin Downey on January 17th, 2024
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