How to Answer: Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
16. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
How to Answer
If you work for a larger company, you may have been asked to work on a project with teams from another department. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to your potential employer, especially if they are a larger organization.
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members of the engineering and sales teams. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Exposure to cross-functional teamwork in my current position is widespread. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Admin
"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. Primarily with the HR department and the Accounting department. Clear communication is key when collaborating with different teams. Clarity in expectations is of huge importance."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Manager
"Yes, I have indeed worked in many cross-functional environments. Currently, I lead the production team and collaborate with the QA folks very regularly. We all work well together to ensure an amazing product and customer satisfaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Marketing
"When I worked for a larger agency, we collaborated across departments all the time. We had the C-suite of Marketing and Operations, then the Content and Communications department, Creative Services, and also Consumer Insights. We would meet on a weekly basis to discuss larger projects and then collaborate through the week as needed. It was a great set-up and ensured smooth progress at all project stages."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Retail
"Our current company is pretty flat, as it's a family owned business with a few retail sales associates like myself. I can certainly see how a cross-functional environment would be helpful when it comes to having different team members with their expertise."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Sales
"The sales organization which I currently work for is highly collaborative. We are a funnel focused organization, so we have our Corporate office, our Business Development Department, Account Based Department, and also our Call Center. Goals are clear, and we all understand how each department works to complement the other."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Teacher
"Nearly every task that I do as an educator is in collaboration with another department. I like this because it creates a broader resource base and encourages teamwork."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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