What is the hardest challenge that you have encountered as a chemist?

"I love to be challenged, and I prefer working in high-pressure situations. In one of my previous jobs, a few of our lab managers were let go for not meeting deadlines. I was given a promotion to a management position and asked to get up to speed on a complex project. I took on the challenge and worked with the less-experienced lab assistants and chemists learning a new software program, reading lab notes, and spending time in the lab on my off-hours. By being the student, I gained respect from the other team members, and they felt like they were appreciated as an integral part of the team. It was a difficult position to be in, but it forced me to step up and lead. Within a few weeks, we had met our deadlines and surpassed the expectations of our client."

When hiring managers ask this interview question, they want to know what struggles you've faced in your previous jobs or school and how you overcame them. They also want to assess your problem-solving skills, which gives them an idea of how you'd face similar challenges and find solutions in the job you're interviewing for.