Describe a time when you worked cross functionally on a project. Were you successful as the project manager?
Having access to a diverse set of experiences, skills, and backgrounds means your projects are infused with more resources, creativity, and elevated problem-solving. A successful answer illustrates not only your exposure to cross-functional teamwork but also your ability to be in the driver's seat of it. Talk about the differences in your communication style in coordinating across teams versus leading one team. In addition, the interviewer will also want to learn how you might leverage everyone's strengths and limitations to ensure project success.
"When I worked for ABC Consultants, we collaborated across departments all the time. I monitored tasks between teams and reported project progress bi-weekly to the heads of HR, Operations, and IT. To foster collaboration, I had bi-weekly project meetings with the stakeholders of three different teams. In between those bi-weekly meetings, I also facilitated work sessions with specific stakeholders and subject matter experts.
Whenever necessary, we pulled in key personnel from other teams like Legal and Marketing. To keep stakeholders up to speed, I made sure to send feedback and relevant notifications whenever tasks were completed or if there was anything blocking the completion of tasks. However, when it came to the department heads, I kept it rather concise and results-oriented."
