When you have multiple tasks to complete, how do you go about prioritizing those tasks?
Scientific positions are usually fast-paced and at times, unpredictable. The interviewer is asking this question to determine if you can multitask and prioritize your workload. You will want to demonstrate that you can quickly change priorities when necessary without easily overwhelming. Tell the interviewer how you go about prioritizing your tasks when you have multiple deadlines to meet or if you have a heavier than normal workload. Whatever strategy you use to keep your tasks prioritized, you will want to provide details of that here.
"In my current role, I have multiple tasks to complete daily. There are often times that I need to shift priorities to meet a deadline or the request of a client. To stay on track, I look at the tasks that are required of me each day to see which are most easily shifted without disrupting the business. I then look at my deadlines on projects to determine what needs immediate attention and what can wait. If I have two competing deadlines and neither can be moved, I will ask my team for assistance or ask if I am able to work some additional hours to be sure that everything is completed on time."
