How to Answer: When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Paycom job interview.
2. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When it comes to complex problem-solving, solutions do not always come easily. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results.
Through this question, your interviewer wants to learn more about how you handle high-pressure situations and your ability to quickly weigh potential options before making a decision. Making decisions with limited time or resources is a part of most jobs, and it's crucial to demonstrate that you are up to the task.
Written by Rachel Hills on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises, and give an example of a time you did just that if you have one.
Written by Rachel Hills on January 22nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and collected manner. I lead a team of four people, and my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a very important and busy day for us. I called a temp agency and they had the position filled in just one hour."
Written by Rachel Hills on January 22nd, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergency situations. 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 do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."