Please describe a time you had to change your course of action while working on an assignment. Describe the situation, your actions, and the result.
HireVue defines Adaptability as "the ability to shift or change opinions, actions, or behaviors when faced with multiple demands, shifting priorities, rapid change, or ambiguity." When the assessment model evaluates a candidate's behaviors, they'll categorize them based on their responses and verbal and nonverbal cues. Those categories are Novice, Intermediate, and Expert. For example, they rate someone who reacts negatively to change and is concerned about the extra effort they will have to put forth to adjust to that change as a novice. They also state that a novice doesn't seek information to understand the need for change. Someone who does not effectively adjust their behavior as required to meet the demands of the situation, and someone who requires a supervisor or manager to make the necessary changes.
Whereas someone of an intermediate skill level may be initially reluctant to accept the change but can see positive aspects after internalizing the change. They understand the change is needed as a part of the job requirement and adjust their behavior within a reasonable timeframe to meet the demands of a moderate to difficult change and require minimal guidance. Whereas someone who is an expert views change as a challenge and an opportunity to advance toward mutual goals. An expert possesses a positive attitude, shares their vision, inspires others, is a role model, and quickly modifies their plans accordingly.
The assessment vendor will study your performance for signs of discomfort or dishonesty. Verbal cues they'll analyze to identify if you're exaggerating or not being completely honest include repeating a question before answering, speaking in sentence fragments, displaying a change in speech pattern, irregular speech, and rising and falling tone. When your words don't match your gestures, your gestures will be seen as the truth. Some of the nonverbal cues the assessment vendor will scan your video interview for are your posture, such as slouching, folding your arms, or protecting your neck. It will monitor your facial expressions, eye and head movements, and hand movements. It will also scan tone for your vocal cues, such as placing stress or emphasis on certain words, stutters, or taking long pauses. So maintain eye contact and confident body language, be comfortable, and speak from the heart.
Change is prevalent in the world. Often, change can take you out of your comfort zone, which is required. An example of positive change is when a company is progressing forward, staying relevant, and isn't afraid to change course when needed. As a professional, you should recognize the value of their vision and support your teams to move forward toward that goal. An example of a challenging change would be cutbacks or layoffs. But often, such events are just a part of life, and whether such situations impact you directly or indirectly, it is important to maintain a professional and mature perspective. Show that you can shift priorities and successfully adapt when needed, whether you supported the decisions or vision of the company or stayed positive and kept moving forward with the change instead of against it.
"(Situation) Last year, my company shuffled around our team members with no notice. (Task) This shuffle meant that, overnight, the team of 40 that I was leading became a team of 60. (Action) I had a great rapport with the current 40 and needed to develop a fast strategy for connecting with the additional 20. I threw a team-wide after-work event so everyone could get to know each other and make meaningful connections. (Result) My idea worked like a charm, and everyone clicked immediately, making the best of an abrupt situation."
Take time to use the restroom before you begin. Make yourself comfortable. Have a glass of water ready in case you need it during the interview. Remember, the algorithm will evaluate your problem-solving skills and cognitive abilities.
Regardless of which device you decide to use, ensure you've got the strongest Wi-Fi signal possible. Make sure your microphone is working properly. Close any unnecessary browsers or applications, silence notifications, and get your computer ready. Silence on your phone. Ensure you are in a relatively quiet room free of distractions with as little background noise as possible. If you're not home alone, give everyone a head's up that you are about to record your interview and ask them to be respectfully quiet. If this is not an option, wait for an opportunity to be alone. Remember, you can record your interview anytime, anywhere.
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