How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
The interviewer asks this question to understand your organizational skills. Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when assessing your priorities. When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, explain how you decide which one needs your attention the most.
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require additional hours from me. Never have I underdelivered on a deadline."
"I determine priorities based on project value and receptiveness of my client. The most engaged clients get my attention and the fastest turnaround."
"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact."
Focus on describing the techniques you use to prioritize projects and meet deadlines. The interviewer wants to hear that you will be an asset to the company if hired.
You want to avoid not being able to describe how you stay organized and ensure projects are completed on time. If you cannot explain how you prioritize multiple projects, the interviewer may feel you are not a strong candidate for the job.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
My priorities at my plant are
1) Safety -- does this issue present a safety hazard
2) Production -- is this issue going to inhibit production in any way
3) Urgency -- does this need to be done now or can it wait
Safety is always my top priority. I need my employees to go home the same way they showed up, better if possible.
Rachelle's Feedback
These are very important priorities! How do you ensure that these three points are always addressed, even on the busiest days?
