In your opinion, what makes a good team?
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.
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.
"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."
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