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Microsoft Project Manager Mock Interview

Question 24 of 30 for our Microsoft Project Manager Mock Interview

Microsoft was written by on June 20th, 2022. Learn more here.

Question 24 of 30

Imagine you are assigned to manage the delivery of a series of solutions for an at-risk account. What are the first steps you would take?

"The first thing I do when I am assigned to step into an at-risk situation is meet with the internal team that was previously involved to understand the history of the situation from their perspective. I listen neutrally because I understand there are often multiple sides and factors involved.

The second thing I do is reach out to the clients personally. If possible, I like to do this in person. I ask them to be as honest as possible and let me know what has happened and what their concerns are. I do not challenge their feelings or experiences even if I have information from the other side that discounts their opinions. I demonstrate empathy, and if appropriate, I apologize for any painful experiences they have had on behalf of my company. From there, I try to explain my experience in working in situations like these at a high level. I find this can help to begin to build confidence and trust.

The last initial step I would take is to develop a specific tactical action plan to begin to alleviate their concerns and demonstrate progress. This may include offering some sort of good faith service, or ensuring a set of action items is completed. I follow through on those commitments as quickly as possible and then take whatever steps are necessary to get the project back to where it needs to be."

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How to Answer: Imagine you are assigned to manage the delivery of a series of solutions for an at-risk account. What are the first steps you would take?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Microsoft job interview.

  • 24. Imagine you are assigned to manage the delivery of a series of solutions for an at-risk account. What are the first steps you would take?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      Project managers are sometimes called upon to save at-risk implementations from failure. Interviewers who ask this question want to ensure the candidate they select understands how to properly navigate this difficult scenario.

      Written by Karrie Day on June 20th, 2022

      Remember To

      Remember to demonstrate humility and wisdom in your response. Interviewers may eliminate a candidate that indicates they would participate in gossiping about the previously assigned teams, or lack sensitivity to all of the parties involved in their approach.

      Written by Karrie Day on June 20th, 2022

      Answer Example

      "The first thing I do when I am assigned to step into an at-risk situation is meet with the internal team that was previously involved to understand the history of the situation from their perspective. I listen neutrally because I understand there are often multiple sides and factors involved.

      The second thing I do is reach out to the clients personally. If possible, I like to do this in person. I ask them to be as honest as possible and let me know what has happened and what their concerns are. I do not challenge their feelings or experiences even if I have information from the other side that discounts their opinions. I demonstrate empathy, and if appropriate, I apologize for any painful experiences they have had on behalf of my company. From there, I try to explain my experience in working in situations like these at a high level. I find this can help to begin to build confidence and trust.

      The last initial step I would take is to develop a specific tactical action plan to begin to alleviate their concerns and demonstrate progress. This may include offering some sort of good faith service, or ensuring a set of action items is completed. I follow through on those commitments as quickly as possible and then take whatever steps are necessary to get the project back to where it needs to be."

      Written by Karrie Day on June 20th, 2022

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