30 Assistant Project Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Assistant Project Manager interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Describe a time when you learned a new professional skill.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The assistant project manager role is often an entry level project manager position. Candidates are expected to observe and actively learn on the job. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about how the candidate approaches this important aspect of the role.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate initiative and a desire to learn new skills in your response. Interviewers value candidates that enjoy learning and gaining skills that will translate to value. If possible, describe learning a professional skill that is directly applicable to project management.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Industry-Specific Example
"I learned to read construction blueprints for commercial real estate last year. I asked the drafter at my current company to allow me to shadow him while he drew up plans for various builds. He walked me through the components involved and the order in which they were typically constructed. I feel the knowledge I picked up will be a valuable contribution to my work here if hired."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Project Management Software Example
"I recently learned to use Monday. I worked alongside a project manager and learned how to start new projects and enter budget, task, and resource information. I also learned how to track progress, track financials, and run reports.
I worked with the system administrator to get access to set up a test project and I used it to familiarize myself with some of the more advanced functions. I enjoyed learning a new system and I feel the knowledge I gained is directly applicable to the assistant project manager role at your company."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Behavioral
2. How would you describe your energy level?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The energy of a team is an important aspect of overall team happiness and success. Team energy fluctuates regularly, but team leaders usually aim for a balanced and healthy vibe. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate's natural level of energy is a fit for the needs of the teams they will be working with.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember that every interview is a two-way interview. It is important to be transparent and authentic with your answer to this question as finding a team with a match for your personal style will contribute to higher levels of satisfaction in the workplace.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Calm in the Storm Example
"I am a naturally positive person, but my energy is relaxed. I tend to be the 'calm in the storm' person in a group. I do enjoy high energy environments while brainstorming or dealing with times that call for a boost, but I like to balance that out when a higher level of energy isn't necessary."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
High energy Example
"I am a high energy person most of the time. I like to jump right into my work and keep a positive outlook in the face of challenges. I enjoy teams with an upbeat vibe, but I am comfortable working in low key settings as well. The most important thing to me is a healthy dynamic in which teams handle their conflicts and honor each other properly."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Behavioral
3. If your current or former boss could describe you in three words, what would they say?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project manager positions are typically junior-level positions. Candidates often have limited working experience and professional achievements to discuss. Interviewers lean on questions like these to determine if the candidate has a desirable set of traits that can be developed as they progress within their career.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to be authentic in your response. While this is largely an opinion-based question, companies often reach out to former co-workers and bosses to validate the information provided in an interview even if you have not provided their names as a reference.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"My current boss would most likely describe me as eager, curious, and trustworthy. I am always popping by her office to ask if there is anything more I can do, and ask questions as new situations arise. She's really great about breaking complex business scenarios down for me because she knows I want to be a project manager. She also shares information with me that is confidential from time to time and knows I am able to use the information to learn how to be a good manager, and will not use it for office gossip."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What are some of the steps you would take to develop a strong relationship with the project managers, senior project managers, and program managers you will be supporting?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers work hand-in-hand with more senior project managers on a daily basis. The relationships they develop are imperative to success in this aspect of the role. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate's strategy for relationship development is a fit for the project managers they will be assigned to support.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate your understanding that the project managers you will partner with are all unique. Everyone has their own style and interviewers value candidates willing to customize their approach to best support the specific individuals they will be working with.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"One of the first steps I would take is to listen intently, observe, and take great notes every time I am invited to a meeting or find myself in the middle of a team conversation. I find that project managers juggle a ton of details and action items. Making sure I am up to speed on the details is an easy way to contribute.
From there, I would seek to schedule one-on-one time with them to review project plans, learn about their customers, and learn about their individual project management style. I would want to support each of them in a way that works best for them, so I would ask them what they need and how I can best be of service.
I would proactively take on anything I could easily do without direction and check in regularly for new assignments and for feedback on my performance. I feel those three strategies would help me to develop strong relationships with any project managers I have the opportunity to work with if hired for the assistant project manager role."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Behavioral
5. How do you ensure that you manage your time effectively each day?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Time management is a critical skill for project managers to possess. It applies on an individual and team level on a daily basis. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's approach to ensuring that they are able to prioritize and complete their work successfully.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include a mix of strategic and tactical approaches within your response. For example, you might discuss reviewing long-range or project plans on a regular basis in addition to formally scheduling time for specific activities throughout your day.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first step I take to managing my time is make sure I am up to speed on the long-range plan and how that affects my week. That helps me to sketch things out across my days and makes sure I allow enough time for time-intensive assignments.
From there, I check my schedule every morning and plan out blocks of meeting time and working time. I allow myself some down time to give time for impromptu discussions, new assignments, and whatever else comes up.
I also schedule a bit of catch-up time at the end of each week. I find that there are usually a small handful of tasks I had to push back that need attention, and I like to end each week with as clean a slate as possible. Collectively, each of those strategies helps me to effectively manage my time."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
6. What level of experience do you have giving presentations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are sometimes asked to deliver presentations to clients or internal stakeholders. A senior project manager may lead the actual presentations, but interviewers ask this question to identify candidates with presentation skills in alignment with the needs of their specific teams and projects.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss presentation experience you have from college or grad school if you are a recent graduate. The nature of the material you presented may be different, but the fundamental presentation and communication skills apply.
Also, remember to mention your experience supporting the presentations of others. For example, you may describe your experience putting together PowerPoint slides for your manager, or the speaking role you have in a monthly status update meeting.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I present updates to my management on a monthly basis in my current role. I am responsible for developing the slides, presenting the highlights, and answering any related questions."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
7. Are you proficient in MS Office, or the Google suite of office applications?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question in an interview to ensure the candidate they select has a basic working knowledge of the technology they will be working with on a daily basis in the assistant project manager role. Ideal candidates will be proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, email, presentation, and collaboration tools.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to indicate if you have experience using the corporate versions of the MS Office or Google applications. The professional or enterprise levels of these tools offer collaborative features that the interviewer may appreciate your knowledge of.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes. I am very comfortable using both suites of applications. I use them personally, and I have also used them in corporate and collaborative settings."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
8. What experience do you have managing purchase orders and invoices?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some companies ask their assistant project managers to be involved in crafting, tracking, and handling the closeout of purchase orders and invoices. This is common in industries with projects that require the purchase of large amounts of materials or hiring additional labor. Interviewers ask this question in the event they anticipate the assistant project manager will play a significant role in the management of these important project artifacts.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include your experience managing internal billing between the departments of a company if you do not have experience working with formal invoices. The process of accounting for line-item charges and presenting total cost for reimbursement between cost centers is somewhat similar to external invoicing. An interviewer may accept this as an acceptable level of experience for the open assistant project manager position.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have not yet had the opportunity to formally work with purchase orders or invoices in a professional setting. However, I am generally familiar with both concepts and how they are used to facilitate purchases and sales between companies, vendors, and clients. I would welcome the opportunity to learn the details of working with these important concepts if offered the assistant project manager position at your company."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
9. Assistant project managers at our company are responsible for assisting in project-level financial reporting. Do you have any financial tracking experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project managers are responsible for tracking the financial details of the projects they are responsible for. This includes managing items such as project budgets, materials purchases and usage, travel expenses, time tracking, and other financial data. Assistant project managers assist more senior project managers in gathering and maintaining the reporting necessary to properly manage the financial aspect of their projects. Interviewers ask this question to determine a candidate's relative level of experience in this area.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to indicate that you are detail oriented, good with your own personal finances, and willing to learn whatever is needed to be successful in the event you do not have formal professional financial tracking experience. The assistant project manager role is typically a junior role within a company. Interviewers are often willing to hire candidates that demonstrate the attitude necessary to learn on the job in lieu of formal expeirence.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked for a property management company in college. I assisted their staff accountant and controller each month with entering all of the rent payment, property utility, and maintenance financial transactions. I also helped compile quarterly and annual financial reporting. I am comfortable tracking detailed financial data, reviewing it for accuracy, and performing trend analysis."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
10. Do you have experience using project management software? If so, which systems are you comfortable using?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are often responsible for maintaining project related data and artifacts such as project plans, task status, and budgets. Many companies rely on systems or suites of applications to track these various points of data, provide dashboards, preform analysis, and generate related reports. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate has experience using these types of systems as they may be required to use them on a daily basis as an assistant project manager.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to communicate that you are comfortable with learning new technology in the event you do not have experience using any sort of project management tool. Interviewers value candidates that express willingness and excitement to do the work necessary to get up to speed on the tools required to be successful in the assistant project manager role.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have used Procore in the past. I am familiar with tracking projects, teams, tasks, and statuses. I am generally comfortable working with technology, and I enjoy learning new systems. I would love the opportunity to learn how to leverage any tools that your company uses."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
11. As an assistant project manager, you will interact directly with our customers. What level of experience do you have in customer service?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Customer service is a key aspect of project management. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate has the level of experience necessary to serve their internal or external customers in the assistant project manager role.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember that customers can be represented by external customers or clients that purchase a service from a company or internal customers such as project stakeholders or user groups within a company. Be sure to consider all types of customers within your response.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would say that I have a high level of customer service skills. I worked several retail jobs in high school and college, and I was a manager of a store before I graduated with my management degree. I was the point of escalation for customer related issues on a daily basis and I trained employees on customer service techniques. I am comfortable speaking with customers, gathering their requirements, hearing their concerns, being accountable for mistakes, and working to resolve problems."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
12. In your opinion, what makes a good team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers work primarily in teams. They do not have direct oversight over the teams they work within, but they are expected to help establish healthy team behaviors and grow in their leadership skills as they advance in their project management career. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's perspective on team dynamics as it helps them to identify potential new hires with value structures in alignment with their copany.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to review the job description and the company website for team and company cultural information prior to your interview. Your research in this area will help you decide if the company is a fit for you and help you provide an answer that is in alignment with the value structure of the hiring company. In the event this question is not raised in an interview, it is an excellent question to ask a hiring manager as it will offer insight into the team environment you will be expected to support in your role as an assistant project manager.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked on several excellent teams, and they were all different. Each had its own culture and style. However, there were several key factors that were common across them that I feel contributed to their success.
First, I think good teams have a shared sense of responsibility. All of the players understand the goals and work as a group to get there. They are collectively accountable, own their mistakes, and work as a team to improve as necessary.
Second, I think good teams are comfortable with authentic communication. They share openly and use direct language. This helps to reduce conflict and infighting.
Last, I think good teams have servant and agile leaders who know how to pivot and help everyone stay focused during stressful times. This kind of behavior inspires everyone to do their best and roll with the punches. I would be excited to work on any team with these three attributes, and I am willing to do my best to lead by example on teams that need development in any of these areas."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
13. What industries do you have experience working in?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project management is a somewhat universal skill set that can be applied to a wide variety of industries, but there are industry-specific standards related to the tools used and methods followed. Interviewers ask this discovery question to better understand the types of work and projects the assistant project manager candidate has experience with. The answer provided will help the interviewer determine the level of development and industry-specific training the candidate may require if hired for the position.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss the roles you worked in for each industry you mention even if you did not work in a business-focused role. Interviewers value candidates that have operations-based knowledge in addition to project management, accounting, finance, marketing, etcetera.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had an internship at a media company in college. I worked in their accounting department and did mostly analytical work. I am currently employed at a software company in a financial analysis role.
I have had the opportunity to work on several cross-functional projects and I partner directly with the project managers on a regular basis. I respect the work they do and sought several of them out as mentors when I decided I wanted to move into project management. I feel my combined experience makes me an ideal candidate for the assistant project manager role at your company."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
14. What qualities do you seek in a mentor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project manager positions are junior-level positions that require time spent learning on the job. In addition to formal training and shadowing, companies often encourage assistant project managers to identify mentors they can learn from and network with. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about the qualities a candidate feels are ideal in a mentoring relationship.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss your desire to work with mentors that demonstrate excellence in areas outside of strict project management duties in addition to working with more senior project managers. For example, you may indicate that you seek mentors that are well-connected, that have executive presence, or that are experts in the industry you want to work in.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel that everyone I work with has the potential to teach me at any given time. I pay close attention to how others approach their work, and I am constantly adjusting my own style to improve based on what I learn from others.
In a formal mentoring relationship, I seek mentors that are gifted in various aspects of the industries I work within and the roles I am attracted to. I like to work with individuals who are comfortable with my observing how they work and asking questions for clarification. I appreciate mentors who are willing to own their mistakes and help me learn from my own. I also enjoy working with mentors who are well connected and take the time to introduce me to others who are experts in their domains. I feel these relationships are key and are especially helpful when managing projects."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
15. What aspects of project management do you dislike?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Almost everyone has an aspect or two of their job that they do not enjoy. Interviewers typically ask this question for two main reasons. First, it is an effective way to test the authenticity of a candidate. Second, the answer provided can be indicative of the areas a candidate may need support from their management if selected for the position.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate that you are willing to overcome your dislike and be successful in any aspect of the role you discuss in your answer. Also, it is important to be honest in your response. Interviewers with a well-developed intuition and sense of empathy use questions like this to test the integrity of the candidates they interview. An inauthentic response is typically considered a red flag and can be a reason to exclude a candidate from further consideration.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Focused on Learning Example
"At this point there is not really an aspect of the role that I genuinely dislike. I recognize that I am early in my career, and I view all of my assignments as important learning opportunities."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Data Entry Example
"I truly enjoy working on project management related tasks. If I had to pick something I enjoy the least, I would select data entry. I am a people person and I love to work on interactive assignments. However, I recognize the importance of keeping all of the details up-to-date and visible as the data I work with supports a number of important functions downstream."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
16. What attributes do you have that will add value in your role as an assistant project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are often new to project management and have limited experience. Interviewers ask this question to learn what a candidate feels they have to offer the teams they will be working with, the clients they will serve, and the company they will work for.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to review the job description prior to your interview and familiarize yourself with the qualities that the company is looking for in an ideal candidate. Interviewers do not want you to restate them in an interview. However, providing an answer in alignment with their needs helps demonstrate you are a fit for the role.
Also, be sure to consider your attributes that support soft skills. Companies value candidates that are intuitive, empathetic, creative, adaptable, analytical, etcetera.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Team Skills Example
"I have a foundational set of project management skills that will add value in the event I am hired for the role of assistant project manager. I manage my time well, and I am good at breaking large efforts down into manageable bodies of work. I am financially responsible, and I understand accounting and finance basics.
In addition to those skills, I am an excellent teammate. I am always willing to do whatever the team needs to be successful, and I have strong leadership skills. I am calm, able to go with the flow, and help my teams adapt when plans change."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Customer Service Skills Example
"I have well-developed time management and organizational skills that help me plan and keep things moving on schedule. In addition to those skills, I have an excellent track record in customer service and sales. I was consistently a top performer in my sales role in college, and my management frequently asked me to get involved when customer issues would arise. I am a good listener, and customers trust that I will do my best to find a solution they can be happy with. I think all of those attributes will add value here at XYZ company if I am selected for the assistant project manager role."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Discovery
17. Why do you want a career in project management?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to determine what motivates a candidate. Assistant project managers are often new to project management and interviewers are responsible for selecting a candidate they believe will thrive in the role. This question helps interviewers ensure that the desires and talents of the candidate are in alignment with the opportunity their organization has to offer.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to work your best attributes into your response. For example, if you are highly organized you might mention that you want to work in project management because it allows you to leverage what you are naturally talented at.
Also, remember to give a response that is in alignment with the job description for the specific role you are interviewing for. For example, an interviewer would not expect to hear an assistant project manager at a creative agency state that they want a career in project management because they want to work in information technology in the future.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Enjoys Project Management Example
"I am a highly organized person and I enjoy working alongside teams and customers to ensure projects are successful. I naturally took on project manager responsibilities for all of my team projects in college, and I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of the work. I look forward to the opportunity to leverage what I enjoy and excel at professionally if hired for the position."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Building for the Future Example Example
"Project management skills can be applied to a number of exciting industries. I feel working as an assistant project manager will allow me to build a solid foundational set of skills that I can leverage in a wide variety of ways in the future. I also enjoy working in a team setting, and project management offers me the opportunity to grow my leadership skills."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
18. What is the difference between a fixed price bid and a time and materials bid?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project bidding is a frequent activity in certain types of project management roles. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate is familiar with the various types of bids they will be facilitating in their role as an assistant project manager.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to provide a simple comparison between the two models within your answer. Offering a proper application of the concepts to real world examples will demonstrate understanding and give you an opportunity to establish your ability to clearly and easily explain the differences between the two bid styles to future clients.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"A fixed price bid is given up front in a project and a client is offered a number that represents their total cost. Sometimes the bid shows the breakdown between labor and materials, other times it is presented as a lump sum. A time and materials bid typically gives an estimate for the labor involved and an estimate for the materials. These estimates are often given in ranges as various factors that change the cost may arise over the course of a project.
For example, an electrician may give a fixed price bid to install a new light fixture in a home. The work is fairly straight forward, and there are a limited set of variables that will change the expected profit margin. Conversely, a contractor may give a time and materials bid for a new bathroom buildout project. In this case, the labor and materials estimates may shift depending on unforeseen challenges and the homeowner's material selections. The bid represents an estimate as opposed to a fixed price and the customer is expected to understand the final cost may vary."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
19. What does it mean to have a matrixed project team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many projects are executed leveraging resources from across various groups within an organization. The project management of these projects can be different than those that are staffed by resources that all preform the same duties. Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's knowledge of this core project staffing concept.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to provide a simple example alongside your definition. An example in alignment with the types of projects you will be assigned to is best.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"A matrixed project team is a team that is made up of individuals across a number of disciplines or functions within a company. For example, a matrixed software development team may consist of a mix of engineers, project managers, product managers, analysts, quality assurance analysts, database admins, architects, marketing specialists, sales team members, etcetera."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
20. What are the basic phases of a project?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a general question intended to test a candidate's basic project process knowledge. Interviewers ask this question to identify candidates who understand this entry-level project management concept as well as candidates who understand the specific phases that are unique to the industry they will be working in if hired for the assistant project manager position.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to thoroughly research the phases of the types of projects you will be assigned to if hired. While the basic phases of a project are similar across industries, there are differences that are important to note when answering this question.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Construction Example Example
"The phases of construction projects differ depending on the company, their specific product, and how they break down the work. However, the five general phases are planning and design, pre-construction, procurement, construction, and post-construction."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Technology Example Example
"The basic phases of IT projects are discovery, analysis, design, development, testing, user-acceptance, implementation, and support. There are differences in how the phases are executed depending on the development methodology followed, but each of those activities are typically included."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
21. What does the scope of a project represent?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The scope of a project is a fundamental project management concept that helps to manage expectations and define the work that will be completed over the course of a project. This is a general question intended to test the basic project management knowledge of a candidate.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include the concept specifying out of scope items within your answer. Most project charters or similar artifacts provide a list of items that are considered out of scope as they serve to manage expectations and protect the parties involved.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The scope of a project defines what will be included or delivered over the course of the project. Project scope statements typically include a list of items that the project team agrees to complete as well as a list of out-of-scope items that the customer agrees will not be included or considered necessary for project acceptance."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
22. What is change control within project management?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Requests for changes that occur while projects are in flight have the potential to delay a project or keep a team from successfully meeting the goals of the initiative. While assistant project managers are unlikely to drive the change control process, they are typically expected to be aware of change requests and assist in the facilitation of impact analysis and approval activities. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select is familiar with this key project management concept.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include a brief description of the various activities involved in change control in addition to a basic definition of the concept. Interviewers appreciate candidates that can demonstrate advanced understanding of this critical project scope management processes.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"Change control is the process for dealing with scope changes that arise over the course of a project. Changes could include changes to the requirements during the analysis phase, changes during development, and changes that result during testing and acceptance.
The change control process is different depending on the type of project and the methodology followed. However, each method includes making an impact assessment and negotiating changes to the project scope, cost, or timeline to account for the requested changes. Additionally, there is typically an approval or sign-off process included to ensure all parties involved understand the impact and adjust their expectations accordingly."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
23. What should be included in a well written set of meeting minutes?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the style of projects involved, assistant project managers will attend various types of meetings and will be asked to document the discussion and circulate the minutes. Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's knowledge of the components of this basic and key meeting artifact.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to mention that you would clearly highlight decisions, action items, and parking lot items within the minutes. It is important to designate these key areas of discussion as they represent next steps that participants likely need to remember and follow-up on after a meeting.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"Well written meeting minutes should contain three key areas of information. First, there should be a set of logistical information that describes the goal of the meeting, when and where the meeting took place, and the attendees. Next, there should be a list of discussion points broken out by topic. Finally, there should be lists of the decisions made, the action items that were assigned, and topics that were moved to the parking lot to be addressed in subsequent meetings."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
24. What is the difference between a tactical and a strategic plan?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project management includes developing and managing long and short-term plans. Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's basic knowledge of the standard terms used to differentiate between these types of planning.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to provide a simple example for each type of planning within your response. Keep your answer short, but be sure to clearly demonstrate that you understand how to properly apply the concept.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The difference between tactical and strategic planning lies in the focus and the time frame for each. Strategic planning focuses on long-term plans that define the broad goals and key objectives of a project. For example, a business may develop a strategic plan to reduce their operating costs by 20% over the course of a year.
Strategic plans are multi-faceted and require a number of specific actions in order to achieve the desired results. Tactical plans are the short-term action-oriented steps that are taken to achieve the defined goals. Given the previous operating cost reduction goal I provided, a tactical aspect of that strategic plan would be the steps involved to replace the current office supply vendor with a lower cost option."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
25. What is the difference between a project goal and a requirement?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Project goals and requirements represent important achievements that need to be managed and reached during a project. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select understands these fundamental project concepts and how to apply them appropriately.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include an easy-to-understand example within your response. An example from the industry the company you are interviewing for is best. Also, it is helpful to develop a goal-level example and then provide a related requirement example alongside it. This demonstrates you fully understand how requirements relate to goals.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"Project goals describe the 'why' of a project and provide detail on the business objectives. They are strategic in nature and usually coincide with specific objectives that define timeframes, or other key outcomes. For example, a company may wish to improve their customer satisfaction scores by 30%. They may develop key related outcomes of authoring improved knowledgebase articles and reducing support ticket resolution time by 20% by the end of the year.
Requirements are tactical in nature and represent the 'how' of a project. To continue the goal example I provided, a related requirement might be to improve the customer support ticket system to provide alerts to management when a ticket has been open a certain amount of time, or to adjust their support staff performance process to provide incentives to staff members who improve their average resolution time by a certain percentage."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
26. What is the triple constraint?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The triple constraint is a basic project management concept. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select has the basic project management domain knowledge to be successful as an assistant project manager.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include easy to follow examples within your response. While an interviewer may appreciate a clear textbook definition of the triple constraint, providing a simple example will add value to your interview by demonstrating your ability to apply the concept correctly.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The triple constraint is a concept that states that the quality of a project is affected by a combination of the cost, time, and scope of the project. It states that changes to cost, time, or scope affect the other aspects of the project. For example, if the budget of a project is cut, the scope of the project and the time allowed for the project are also reduced. Likewise, if the scope of the project is increased, it is likely to take longer to complete and will be more costly."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
27. What are the components of a standard project plan?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are not always responsible for the creation of the content that goes into project plans, but oftentimes are tasked with updating them or loading them into various project manager software tools. Interviewers ask this question to identify candidates that are familiar with the components and understand how to read these key project management artifacts.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include charts and graphs that may be derived from the data within a typical project plan. For example, it is standard for project plans to include a Gantt Chart to visually represent the tasks across a timeline in addition to the ordered list of tasks within the plan.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"A standard project plan contains the name of the project, the name of the project manager, a list of the tasks, the name or names of the resources the tasks are assigned to, the start and end dates for each task, the duration of the tasks, and the status of the tasks.
Additionally, many project plans include a Gantt Chart which is a visual representation of how the tasks are related to each other over time. I have also seen graphical representations of the overall project progress and status of the project."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
General
28. What do lead and lag time represent in a project plan?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Lead and lag time are basic project planning and task management concepts within project management. Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's knowledge of these key concepts.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to be honest if you do not know the answer to a question like this. While 'I don't know' is not an acceptable answer, pretending to know the answer when you do not is equally as poor of a strategy. Instead, indicate that you are not sure of the answer, provide a guess, and then indicate that you will research this directly after the interview so that you will have the knowledge you need prior to your start date if hired.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"Lead time represents the time you can plan an overlap between two tasks. For example, let's say you are building a house and you are hanging drywall on the inside of the house. Most other inside tasks are not feasible at that point because of the dust and mess that goes with drywall. However, you can schedule outside tasks such as painting, or landscaping during that time. Lead helps to reduce the overall project time by concurrently executing tasks.
Lag time represents the time you must wait in between tasks. An example of lag would occur when you rough in plumbing and then wait for the inspection and subsequent tasks such as drywall and flooring to be completed before you finish the remaining plumbing tasks like installing the fixtures.
Both concepts are important and necessary aspects of project planning that help project managers ensure that resource optimization rates are high and unnecessary delays are avoided."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Situational
29. Imagine that a resource assigned on one of the projects you are working on is consistently late in reporting their time. What steps would you take to resolve the issue?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are sometimes asked to oversee or assist with time tracking. This can sometimes be an uncomfortable process when the individuals involved do not comply with the deadlines for reporting their time. Interviewers ask this question to assess how a candidate would resolve this potential conflict.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include a process to discuss and address the issue directly with the resource prior to escalation to the resource's management. Interviewers value candidates that are able to proactively resolve issues on their own and only seek support when traditional methods fail.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first thing I would do is gather whatever data is available to support my claim that the resource is consistently late in reporting their time. I find that most people with issues like this are sometimes unaware of the frequency and impact of the problem and it helps to be able to provide details when discussing the issue.
The second thing I would do is reach out to them in a comfortable setting. I might invite them for coffee, or lunch, or ask them to take a walk with me. I find that it is easier to discuss issues away from others and on neutral territory.
I would then bring the issue to light and explain the downstream effect to make sure they understand the importance of resolving the issue. From there, I would ask for a commitment and timeframe for change and see if there is anything I can do to assist or make the process easier.
I would then follow-up to make sure the issue was resolved. If it continued, I would remind the resource of our agreement. In the event it still persisted I would schedule a meeting with the resource and their manager to discuss next steps."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Situational
30. Imagine that you have a full day of activities planned and the project manager you are working with gives you an important assignment. What steps do you take?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Assistant project managers are often asked to quickly shift gears and handle new priority items as they arise. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's process for assessing impact, developing a strategy, communicating changes, and executing an action plan in these scenarios.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include the activities involved in adjusting expectations and setting new timelines if the new assignment causes a delay in your previously assigned work. Assistant project managers are expected to thrive in a fast-paced and agile environment, and this includes properly communicating changes to their teams, clients, and management as necessary.
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first thing I would do is assess the new work to see what is involved and how long it will take. I would then determine the impact to my workload and anyone else involved. Next, I would look for an opportunity to meet all my current commitments while also working in the new assignment. In the event one or more of my prior tasks needed to shift, I would immediately communicate the change and establish a new timeline for completion. I would then jump into the new work while using any down time to make progress toward my previously assigned work."
Written by Karrie Day on September 10th, 2022