How to Answer: When faced with a problem, are you more likely to jump into solving it, or are you the type to carefully assess the issue first?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Academic Advisor job interview.
29. When faced with a problem, are you more likely to jump into solving it, or are you the type to carefully assess the issue first?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know more about your problem-solving skills and personality. Discuss how you tackle problems when they arise, and keep your answer work-related if you can. Whether you are the type to jump right into solving a problem or are more methodical in your approach, highlight to the interviewer that you can handle issues professionally while using sound judgment. The best response will include you being able to handle problems quickly while also carefully assessing the issue.
Written by Krista Wenz on July 1st, 2023
Entry Level Example
"That depends on the situation and seriousness of the problem. I will not jump in with rash decisions on a problem that has a major impact on our students or the institution. On the other hand, if there is an issue that needs an immediate resolution, I am excellent at problem-solving and thinking quick on my feet."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 1st, 2023
Answer Example
"When faced with a problem, I am more likely to jump right into solving it. I believe that you cannot leave a problem to fester, or it will become bigger than it already is. You have to take ownership of the issue and involve yourself in the resolution right away. That said, I am responsible for my decision-making and certainly don't jump in blind. If I am unsure what action to take, I will ask my leader for advice."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 1st, 2023
Experienced Example
"I have been with my current educational facility for many years, so the majority of problem-solving comes second nature to me at this point. However, when I first started this job, I would have to spend more time in careful consideration before jumping in. I would say that when I have a problem, I have a healthy balance of the two."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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