Some people consider themselves to be 'big picture people,' and others are 'detail-oriented.' Which are you? Give an example of a time when you displayed this.

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Any time an interviewer asks you to give them an example, you should identify the question as being behavioral. This indicates that your answer should be formatted using the STAR framework. You state the situation, discuss the task you need to accomplish, describe the actions you took, and highlight the results. Your answer should align with the job requirements when being asked to choose between having a big picture perspective or being attentive to details.

"As a computer systems analyst, it is helpful to both understand the big picture while being very attentive to the small details. This enables you to resolve issues quickly while ensuring that your solutions do not have any unintended consequences. I believe I possess both of these qualities. An example of this was when I was asked to examine a new process and determine what other systems may conflict with it. I needed to understand how the process fit into the organization's overall operations while also being aware of how it may impact existing processes and procedures. My analysis determined that the process would not only improve the organization's operational efficiency, but it would also allow us to eliminate several other redundant tasks. This saved the organization 10% of its operational budget for the year."

Anonymous Answer

"At large enterprises due to economies of scale is easy to be focused on whether the big picture or the details. At small and medium organizations is difficult to afford such luxury. Back at **** my boss and I were brought to drive the digital transformation of the university. I invested my first year at the strategic, and initiative horizons working on the institution's 5-year plan for its transformation. After that, I had to change my mindset from a big picture one to a technical and detail oriented one (the most exciting part), as my role evolved into the solutions horizon. I lead the technical and administrative implementation of over 10 solutions; addressing the strategic long-term goals of the institution. As a result, I gained new skills such as SQL and a deeper understanding of the underlying day-to-day process of running a business. This allowed me to help the organization by always having the "big picture" end goal in mind when tackling technical and detail-oriented solutions."

Amanda's Feedback

I can see the balance between both options that you're trying to strike in this answer. Consider improving your response by sharing whether you are naturally more detail-oriented or more of a big picture thinker. You can also share which skills you gained while implementing the solutions needed to achieve digital transformation.