You're working on a confidential project. There's a task that can only be completed by an employee who isn’t allowed to learn about the details of the project. What will you do to complete the task?
A project may be sensitive due to its foreseen impact on the company's workforce, or it may be kept confidential to protect the company's competitive position in the market.
An effective answer will address how well you can manage the communication flow throughout the project's lifecycle by facilitating information with varying levels of sensitivity. A mature project manager should be able to get information without alluding to one specific project. The interviewer will want to hear your step-by-step plan in speaking with the employee.
"First, I would establish a communication plan with a timeline for information milestones. My approach with the employee will depend on where we are in the project timeline. When we meet, I will use hypothetical scenarios or inquire in general terms. Let's say that I need their help in hiring personnel. Instead of saying, 'I need to know how to hire sales representatives for a new account,' I would say, 'I'd like to look at process maps or any process documents for different sales positions.' I can divulge general information from the communication plan, as in 'we are looking to open more branches next year' or 'we're expecting to win more accounts in the next few months.' Otherwise, I can say that it's a general process improvement initiative."
