30 NHS Band 4 Project Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 4 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.
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Communication Questions
- 3. Compatibility Questions
- 4. Competency Questions
- 5. Conflict Questions
- 6. Diligence Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Leadership Questions
- 10. Role-Specific Questions
- 11. Scenario Based Questions
- 12. Situational Questions
- 13. Stress Questions
- 14. Tough Questions
Adaptability
1. This position requires out-of-town travel at times. Will traveling be a problem for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If the interviewers ask this question, they want to ensure you know the job requirements regarding travel and see that it will not be an issue if hired. Often, project managers will need to travel to attend work-related conferences or inspect an offsite project. If travelling is one of the job requirements, the NHS should have put that in the job description, so it should not surprise you in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I saw that requirement listed in the job description, and travelling will not be a problem for me. I look forward to that aspect of the job as I am adventurous and enjoy meeting new people and going to new places."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Communication
2. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see that you have the solid verbal and written communication skills required for the project manager position. Your job duties will include speaking to stakeholders, managers, colleagues, and team members. You will also be responsible for written communications when writing reports and communicating by email. The interviewers would like to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have above-average communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took two years of college communications courses and honed my verbal and written communication skills while taking a leadership course. I have a letter of recommendation from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like it for your file."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Compatibility
3. How would you describe your time management skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Time management skills are essential for any project manager to have. In fact, some hiring managers say this is one of the most critical skills to have in this profession. If you cannot manage your and your team's time, projects will miss deadlines and cost stakeholders a lot of money. Describe your time management skills to the interviewers and any software you like to use to keep projects on track.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"My time management skills are one of my greatest strengths. I can effectively manage and prioritize small and large-scale projects and follow the motto of working smarter, not harder. My team and I always get more done in less time, even when time is tight, and pressures are high. I start my day early and set priorities and goals with my team. My favourite time management software I use with my team is ActiveCollab. It's a great tool for project managers, making it easy to track the project and allowing team collaboration and real-time communication. I look forward to bringing these skills to the NHS if offered the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Compatibility
4. How do you prioritize when running a project?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When running a project, you will have many components that must be accomplished for successful completion. Some of these components will need to be a top priority for the project to advance, while others will not. The interviewers want to see how you prioritize as a project manager and that you have strong communication and leadership skills. Describe your methods for prioritizing when working as a project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"When running a project, I meet with my team daily to discuss our game plan. The night before our meeting, I make a list of tasks that need to be accomplished and the timeline for when they need to be completed. I like visual aids and use a whiteboard to list what tasks need to be accomplished each day and present that at our meeting. I prioritize the most urgent tasks that should be done immediately, list the next most critical ones, and so on. If something unexpected happens during the project, I will readjust and reprioritize assignments."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Compatibility
5. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To be an effective project manager, you must have excellent attention to detail. You will be responsible for multi-tasking many different aspects of a project, and the interviewers want to see that you don't let things slip through the cracks. Describe your attention to detail, using an example that shows you are a detail-oriented individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I am extremely detail oriented. I pride myself on providing error-free work and ensuring my team meets or beats every deadline. My previous supervisor was impressed with my accuracy on every assignment I was given, and she trusted me to check the work of my other team members before submitting any reports to the stakeholders. My ability to plan out large projects while paying attention to even the smallest details has been commended by supervisors and stakeholders, showing that others recognize my attention to detail."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Competency
6. What is your experience as a project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the project management job you applied for with the NHS, you may or may not be required to have project management experience. The interviewers ask this question to see if you have experience in the private or public sectors or with a voluntary organization. Or you may have a degree or equivalent vocational qualification that allows you to apply for a junior project management post. Describe what experience or training qualifies you for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have three years of experience as a healthcare project manager working in the private sector. I have overseen three major projects as a project manager, including expanding a neonatal wing, adding a helipad, and upgrading an oncology centre. The largest project I managed was over 20 million pounds, and every project I oversaw was a success. Each project was completed two to three weeks ahead of schedule, which pleased the stakeholders immensely. I look forward to gaining more experience and enhancing my project management skills with the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Conflict
7. Have you ever had stakeholders have conflicting views on important issues regarding a project? How did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Stakeholders will not always agree with each other. Part of your role as a project manager is to collect information from stakeholders and use their feedback to make choices on how to manage the project and incorporate elements from each stakeholder's input. If stakeholders still have conflicting views, the interviewers want to gain insight into your mediation, communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills. When responding to this question, use a past experience of when you had to mediate a conflict among stakeholders. If you have not had this experience, describe what you would do in this situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I had a project where two investors had conflicting strategies on how to move forward with the project. One investor was eager to take risks, while the other was more conservative and worried about losing money. I conducted research and created a more moderate approach that included some risks with a budgetary plan that could afford some losses. I arranged private meetings with each investor and presented my plan. After meeting with both investors, they accepted my plan and were happy with the outcome."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Diligence
8. Can you please describe at least one of the NHS values?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If you're applying for a job either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services, you'll be asked to demonstrate the values of the NHS Constitution and how they would apply in your everyday work. The NHS has six values that all staff are expected to demonstrate, listed on the NHS health careers website. The interviewers ask this question to see that you have researched the NHS before your interview and that you can name at least one of the six values.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I noticed on the NHS website there are six values that all staff are expected to demonstrate. Every value resonates with me, and that is what made me excited to apply to the NHS. The first value is the patients come first. All staff members work together for the patients while offering dignity and respect. These are a few of the values of the NHS, which I will demonstrate if chosen for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
9. Why do you want to work for the NHS?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will always ask why you want to work for their organization to understand your motivation for applying there. They also want to see that you have done your research and understand the company culture, vision, and the core NHS value of a commitment to care. Show the interviewers that you have done your homework and have the desire to work in a highly challenging work environment and that your values align with theirs.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I want to work for the NHS because I strongly identify with your vision, values, and commitment to care. I believe my skills will contribute nicely to providing the continued delivery of accessible healthcare while offering a patient-centred approach. I am passionate about working for an organization that offers quality patient care, and I know that is the vision of the NHS. Additionally, the NHS offers ongoing training and encourages professional development and growth, allowing me to reach my professional goals."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
10. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to know why you left your last job to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were laid off. If you were fired, they want to know if you will admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with the company culture.
Focus on being direct and honest, and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice, were laid off, or fired, describe the circumstances behind your leaving. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewers how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the project manager position with the NHS.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I left my last job two years ago to care for my ageing parents. My parents both became ill and needed full-time care. I refused to put them in a nursing facility, so I left my job and relocated to live with my parents. Now that they have both passed, I decided to stay in the area and seek employment with the NHS. I left my previous job on good terms and have an excellent letter of recommendation if you would like a copy for your files."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
11. Tell me a little about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will often ask this question first to break the ice and start the conversation. Take a few minutes to tell the interviewers about yourself, demonstrating essential skills and characteristics that are valuable in the position you are interviewing for.
Taking the past, present, and future approach in your response is recommended. You'd like to mention how you started down this career path, what steps you have taken to get to where you are now, and what your future goals are. Be sure to highlight any promotions or achievements you are proud of and any other work-related accomplishments. You can mention extracurricular activities you are interested in, family life, or volunteer work if it ties in with the qualities needed for the job, showing you are a responsible and dedicated individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am an avid triathlete and have travelled to eight countries in the last eight years to compete in various races. I am a competitive individual and consistently rank in the top five in my age group. I recently obtained my strategy management degree and am focused on gaining experience, completing my master's degree, and advancing to a senior-level management position in the next 5-7 years. I am excited for the opportunity to achieve my goals with the NHS, and I appreciate that your organization supports professional development."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
12. Describe a time when you disliked company rules in your last job.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Start by telling the interviewers that you follow all the company rules and support the company's leadership decisions regarding regulations. The interviewer wants to hear that you are not a rule-breaker and you support the rules the company has put into place. After all, there had to be some logic to their professional decision! Your willingness to remain a team player shows the interviewers that you respect decisions even when you recognize you would make different choices sometimes.
Focus on describing a rule you disagreed with while explaining you understand the reason that rule was put into place. When you show the interviewers you are reasonable and will follow the rules even when you disagree with them, they will understand that you are an agreeable person to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Honestly, there were not any company rules that I disliked at my last job. Every rule or regulation they had in place was typical of a large organisation and was there to protect the company and employees."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
13. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the NHS and how you will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing the interviewers you have all the qualifications they require.
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the NHS seeks in a project manager. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet and exceed their job requirements, the interviewers will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your qualifications. I have over seven years of experience working as a project manager with diverse teams and cultures. I am excellent at problem-solving, am a master negotiator, have strong leadership skills, and work extremely well under pressure. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, which all of my references will attest to. I guarantee you will not regret hiring me for this position as I will be a valuable asset to the NHS."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Direct
14. Have you ever managed a project that failed?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter how good of a project manager you are, you may have times when a project fails. Generally, it is due to something out of your control, but at times it may be due to an error on your part. The interviewers would like to see if you are honest and open if you have had a failed project and how you handled it. If you have managed a failed project, explain what happened and how you responded. If you have not had a project fail, explain how your organizational, leadership, budgetary, and communication skills have not allowed that to happen.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"No, I have never managed a project that failed. I had a project once that was close to failing due to supply-chain issues, but I secured an overseas vendor, and the project was a success. I pride myself on my organizational and communication skills and having backup plans for every scenario possible. When I am forward-thinking and plan for the worst, I am ready to handle anything thrown my way. I believe that is why all the projects I have managed have been successful."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Discovery
15. How would your references describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear that your references will positively describe you. Think about the constructive things your references have said about you in the past. Be complimentary of yourself - now is not the time to be super humble. If you have past performance reviews or letters of recommendation from your references, review them before your interview. You will be better prepared to answer the question if what they wrote is fresh in your mind. It is also good to have copies for the interviewers if they would like a copy for their files.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have an excellent list of references who will say that I am a hard worker who always brings a positive and friendly attitude to the workplace. I have a strong work ethic and attention to detail, and I always meet every project's deadline. They say that I lead by example and that my team respects me and my leadership style. I have three copies of performance reviews and letters of recommendation for your file if you would like them."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Discovery
16. What do you like least about working as a project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as a project manager has a lot of benefits, but it also has its downfalls. Some aspects you may like the least about working as a project manager include dealing with uncertainty, not always being in control, lack of authority, and managing stakeholders. The interviewers want to hear what you like the least about your job to see where they may need to motivate and support you if hired. They also want to know how you professionally handle your least favourite part of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"What I like least about working as a project manager is the constant pressure of deadlines. While the teams I have managed have always met every deadline, the pressure of the looming deadline is always there. What I have done to help alleviate that pressure is to break the project into milestones. Once each milestone is hit on time, I know the project will meet its deadline. And it has worked every time."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Discovery
17. Why did you pursue a career as a project manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question to see what motivated you to become a project manager. How you respond will also show the interviewers if you are enthusiastic about your career or if it's 'just another job.' To be considered for the position, respond with enthusiasm and excitement, showing the interviewers your passion for your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I pursued a career as a project manager to utilize my organizational, leadership, problem-solving, and time-management skills. I wanted a career where I could work with diverse team members and feel challenged daily to solve problems. I wanted to work on projects with a clear start and end date with milestones to achieve along the way, giving a sense of accomplishment upon completion. Working as a project manager lets me utilize my skills, and I could not think of another career I would rather do."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Discovery
18. What was the last project you worked on?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are curious about your last project to gain insight into your experience and management style. They want to see what types of projects you are familiar with, when you last worked on a project, and if you met or exceeded your deadline. Describe your last project, highlighting its successes.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"The last project I worked on ended two months ago. The project was a 20-million-pound expansion of a neonatal cardiology wing at a private hospital I worked for. I was in charge of hiring architects, engineers, and builders, gathering permits, meeting with stakeholders, and overseeing the build. I met with inspectors, secured vendors, and kept the project on schedule. When the project was completed two months before the deadline, I had saved over 1.5 million pounds. Needless to say, the stakeholders were quite pleased with my performance."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Discovery
19. Can you please explain the gap in your employment history?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Sometimes, candidates will have a gap in their employment history for various reasons. Perhaps you took time off to raise a family, care for ageing parents, pursue higher education, or volunteer overseas. The interviewers are curious why you took time off to see if that will be a continuing habit if hired for the position. Unless the gap was due to a personal issue, such as a mental health crisis, share why there is a gap on your resume and assure the interviewers that you will be a long-term employee if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I would be happy to explain. There was a one-year employment gap after I obtained my college degree because I spent that year volunteering overseas. I worked with an NGO building homes for communities that were demolished after a devastating earthquake. If hired by the NHS, I can assure you I will not take another year off to volunteer. I am focused on my career and professional growth and will keep any volunteer activities close to home."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Leadership
20. Describe your leadership style.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The NHS boasts its leadership style as collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate. They report this style is essential to deliver the highest quality care for patients and tackle deep-seated cultural issues in the NHS. As a project manager, you must demonstrate strong leadership skills to manage your team effectively. The interviewers want to hear if your leadership style aligns with that of the NHS. If you want to be considered for the position, be sure to include the keywords (collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate) that the NHS is looking for in a leader.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I describe my leadership style as collaborative and inclusive. I like to seek out diverse ideas, opinions, and thoughts from my team to build strategies and solve problems. I find this leadership style effective since my team members feel included and trusted and are more likely to take pride in ownership of their work."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Leadership
21. How do you keep your team motivated?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a project manager, one of your responsibilities is to keep your team motivated and assure them they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Keeping your team motivated will make them eager to work towards a common goal while feeling appreciated. The interviewers want to hear your methods for keeping your team inspired to determine if you will be a good fit for the company culture. Some examples include icebreakers in kickoff meetings, verbal recognition, rewards, or friendly competitions.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I keep my team motivated in several ways. First, I get to know each team member to understand their personality and strengths. I like to have team-building exercises during an icebreaking session at the beginning of a project, allowing me to see each team member's strengths and weaknesses. Then, I can strategically put them in the right position to shine or partner them with a team member who can mentor them. I also reward my team throughout the project by having a catered lunch or giving them tickets to a sporting event. How I reward my team depends on what I know would interest them. I also motivate my team by setting clear and measurable goals and objectives and giving them the tools they need to succeed."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Role-Specific
22. What project management tools do you use?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every project manager has specific project management tools they prefer to use. The interviewers are curious if you prefer using RACI charts or collaboration software like ActiveCollab, Trello, Slack, or Asana. Describe what tools you prefer using and why. Additionally, describe how you can quickly learn new software if the NHS has other project management tools they would like you to use.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have used many project management tools over the years, starting with RACI charts and Microsoft Teams and, more recently, Trello and Asana. I prefer Trello as it has built-in collaboration tools, integrations, and automation and is straightforward and easy to use. I have learned to use many project management tools very quickly, so if the NHS prefers me to use something different, that will not be a problem."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Role-Specific
23. This position requires strong budgeting skills. Do you have experience with budget management?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If you have prior experience as a project manager, you will likely have managed the budget for your projects. The interviewers want to know if you have budget management experience to see how well you have managed budgets or if the NHS will have to train you if hired. Describe your experience with budget management. Be sure to point out projects where you had saved money and come in under budget when the project was completed. Additionally, include the name of the budget management software you like to use, if applicable.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, I have extensive experience managing budgets. I have a family of five and have always managed the household budget. Professionally, I have managed budgets for nine projects, and they all come in under budget or close to what I estimated. I use a budgeting and project management tool called Asana that helps estimate the budget, tracks and monitors the budget throughout the project, and creates a final report when the project is completed."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Role-Specific
24. Name three of your greatest strengths related to your profession.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see if you have the characteristics and qualities they seek in a project manager. They want to hear that you are self-aware and confident enough to identify and describe your strengths. Think of three strengths that will help you succeed as a project manager and bring value to the NHS. Some strengths that will make you stand out as a candidate include the following:
- Strong work ethic
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Diligence
- Attention to detail
After listing your three strengths, give examples of how they will help you succeed in your role as a project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"Three of my greatest strengths related to my role as a project manager are my organization, communication, and leadership skills. I prefer to lead by example and enjoy working alongside my team, asking for their input, so they feel respected and valued as team members. I am highly organized and use project management software to see what the team is working on, determine if anything needs to be adjusted to meet our deadline, and communicate with my team. I always am sure to communicate our goals and objectives, so the entire team is on the same page."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Role-Specific
25. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see that you have read the job description and determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most NHS project manager job postings have many job duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewers want to know what you like the most to see where your strengths lie.
Describe what you like most about the job and your reason why. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for negotiating with stakeholders. Tell the interviewer why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. What I like most about this position is being in charge of negotiating with stakeholders. I have excellent communication and negotiation skills and can be quite persuasive. I enjoy negotiations because I have a way of letting the stakeholders think my idea is their idea, and they generally agree with me very quickly. My years on the debate team helped me hone these skills, and they come in handy as a project manager."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Scenario Based
26. What do you do when a team member asks for more time to complete an assignment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is common for interviewers to ask situational questions like this. They want to see how you communicate with your team members and what you will implement to keep the project running smoothly and on time. It is best to let the interviewers know that you would ask why the team member needs more time and add more resources if the team feels overloaded or overworked. You also want to let the interviewers know that you would consider adding time buffers for specific tasks in the planning phase or would step in and assist your team member if your schedule allows.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I have a team member ask for more time to complete an assignment, I would politely ask why they need more time. I want to understand if they feel overwhelmed or are not the right person for the job. I would then brainstorm solutions so the project can keep running smoothly and ensure we will meet our stakeholder's deadlines. If time allowed in my schedule, I would step in and help my team member. If I did not have time to help, I would delegate another team member to assist or add an additional team member to the project."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Situational
27. When did you make a mistake in a project? How did you fix it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is asked to see if you are honest and upfront about a mistake you made and take responsibility for the error. Everyone makes mistakes at some time or another, and the interviewers understand things happen. They do not want to hear you blame others, which shows a lack of accountability and character. When you tell the interviewers about a mistake, be honest, briefly describe the situation, and explain what you did to rectify it. Then, assure the interviewers that you learn from mistakes, so they will never happen again.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"About six months ago, I made the mistake of hiring a graphic designer to develop a presentation to pitch to stakeholders. I normally did the presentations myself, but I was busy with another high-priority assignment, so I wanted to delegate that task. My mistake was hiring my sister's best friend, who had recently received a degree in graphic design. I did not interview her beforehand since I had known her for years. I made the mistake of not even asking to see her work. The presentation was completed the day before I was to meet with stakeholders, and it was different from what I had in mind. I could not use the presentation given to me, not even a little bit. I stayed up until four in the morning, creating a presentation from scratch. It worked out in the long run, even though I was more tired than usual when I met with the investors. I learned never to hire anyone without interviewing them or having a face-to-face meeting and viewing their work. I definitely won't be making that mistake again!"
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Stress
28. What part of your career brings you the most stress?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as a project manager can be pretty stressful. You have stakeholders to please, a team to manage, budgetary concerns, vendors, and tight deadlines to meet. The interviewers ask what part of working as a project manager brings you the most stress to see what you consider stressful and how you work through the stress. They want to know that you have stress-management skills and can effectively work under pressure. Briefly describe what brings you the most stress, then explain how you work through it.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"The most stressful part of my career is when unforeseen situations threaten the project's completion on time. To help alleviate that, I think of all possible situations that could occur when planning the project and have backup plans in place to keep the project on track. For example, I had a team member become ill and was hospitalized the final week before our deadline to complete the project. I relied heavily on her expertise to finish the project but had a temporary replacement lined up with a temp agency in the event this would happen. The temporary employee had been vetted before the project started, and he was available to help us in our final week to complete the project on time. Having backup plans in place greatly reduces my stress levels."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Stress
29. How well do you work under pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a project manager, you must work well under pressure. You will be responsible for creating and staying within budget, managing a team, and meeting project deadlines. Situations will come up that add stress to a project, and you must be able to manage your stress for a successful outcome. The interviewers want to hear that you work well under pressure and stay focused on the task at hand.
Focus on giving an example of working under pressure related to your role as a project manager. You might have had a project in danger of going over budget or missing a deadline because of unforeseen circumstances. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you can effectively work under pressure.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"I work very well under pressure. I can always remain calm and professional when faced with stressful situations. I find the best thing to do when there is a lot of work pressure is to stay organized. I create a list, prioritize the most urgent assignments, and delegate work where I can. If I stay focused and know exactly what needs to be done, work stressors do not affect me."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Tough
30. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness as a project manager to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewers that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewers may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent project manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is my lack of experience in this field. I am improving this weakness by applying for this position. I just graduated college, received my vocational degree, and have some management experience from my coursework. My goal is to get chosen for this project manager position and gain hands-on experience. I am a quick learner, and you will not be disappointed in my performance if hired for the position. I also see that you have the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme, which I am interested in applying for. If chosen for the Training Scheme, I would like to specialize in policy and strategy management."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 8th, 2023