Give an example of a time when you have been faced with a challenging situation. How did you overcome this, and what did you learn from it?
Professional Answers Preview
"When I worked at x Company in x role, we had a major event happening where over 200 guests were joining us for an evening event. On the particular day there was a really bad storm and about 1 hour before the event was due to start, we had an electricity outage. As a team, we were tasked with working through as much as we could on whether the power would be back on and if not, putting in place a contingency. As a team, we were split into two with 2 members dedicated to working with the service providers and getting an update from them about what had happened and when the power was likely to be back on. I was part of the team tasked with putting together a contingency plan which involved contacting all 200 guests due to arrive as much as we could and also sourcing a potential alternative venue close by. As I did not live centrally and thereby not being as familiar with the other local possible venues, I volunteered to start contacting the guests. I brought up the attendee's spreadsheet and found as many mobile numbers as I could to send out a group text to get to as many people as possible as quickly as possible to confirm about the power outage and to wait for an update on that it was taking place but possibly at an alternative venue or we may need to rearrange. I then worked through those with no mobiles just landlines and found if we had emails, again to get out the message as quickly as possible. Ultimately, we had to postpone the event until a later date but most people appreciated the heads up. I hope in that situation, I demonstrated that keeping calm and working out a practical approach will allow me to get through challenging situations. This is something that I strive myself and utilize when I need to."
Simply not having a strong answer to this question means you did not prepare for this interview. You should always be ready to answer a challenge you have faced and how you overcame that challenge. I would recommend writing down a few challenges you have faced, anything that comes to mind, on paper. These challenges can be simple. Think about a time when equipment failed or a marketing strategy was not proving useful and you rerouted funds.
Here is an answer example: "When I worked at x Company in x role, we had a major event happening where over 200 guests were joining us for an evening event. On the particular day there was a really bad storm and about 1 hour before the event was due to start, we had an electricity outage. As a team, we were tasked with working through as much as we could on whether the power would be back on and if not, putting in place a contingency. As a team, we were split into two with 2 members dedicated to working with the service providers and getting an update from them about what had happened and when the power was likely to be back on. I was part of the team tasked with putting together a contingency plan which involved contacting all 200 guests due to arrive as much as we could and also sourcing a potential alternative venue close by. As I did not live centrally and thereby not being as familiar with the other local possible venues, I volunteered to start contacting the guests. I brought up the attendee's spreadsheet and found as many mobile numbers as I could to send out a group text to get to as many people as possible as quickly as possible to confirm about the power outage and to wait for an update on that it was taking place but possibly at an alternative venue or we may need to rearrange. I then worked through those with no mobiles just landlines and found if we had emails, again to get out the message as quickly as possible. Ultimately, we had to postpone the event until a later date but most people appreciated the heads up. I hope in that situation, I demonstrated that keeping calm and working out a practical approach will allow me to get through challenging situations. This is something that I strive myself and utilize when I need to."
What behaviours and skills do you feel are essential when working in a team?
Professional Answers Preview
"I believe that it is essential to be a good communicator when working in a team to allow messages to get through efficiently, progress with work and feelings on matters happening at that time. It is also important to listen to each other when working in a team to ensure that everyone gets their fair share in contributing to activities. Being flexible is an important behaviour when working in a team, as you as an individual may need help one day, so demonstrating this upfront means people will be willing to adapt things if you need it yourself but also if urgent and challenging elements arise, together as a team it is achievable if everyone shows that flexibility. Connected to this is co-operating, as not everything will always match 100% of the time to what we want to do as an individual, however if we all co-operate for the wider team, achievements will be made. Being open with each other will allow trust to be built and also treating each other with respect. I think another important element is to show an interest in what others in the team are doing."
The candidate should be able to confirm the behaviours and skills they believe are needed to work in a team with an explanation as to why.
Here is an answer example: "I believe that it is essential to be a good communicator when working in a team to allow messages to get through efficiently, progress with work and feelings on matters happening at that time. It is also important to listen to each other when working in a team to ensure that everyone gets their fair share in contributing to activities. Being flexible is an important behaviour when working in a team, as you as an individual may need help one day, so demonstrating this upfront means people will be willing to adapt things if you need it yourself but also if urgent and challenging elements arise, together as a team it is achievable if everyone shows that flexibility. Connected to this is co-operating, as not everything will always match 100% of the time to what we want to do as an individual, however if we all co-operate for the wider team, achievements will be made. Being open with each other will allow trust to be built and also treating each other with respect. I think another important element is to show an interest in what others in the team are doing."
We are interested to know what motivated you to apply for this role? Why do you want to work for our University?
Professional Answers Preview
"I applied for the University Administrator role as my skills and experiences to date have been within a busy office environment to date, where delivering excellent customer service was a must. I also want to work for an Organisation in which I can progress and develop and build on my current abilities. I feel that the University will have established ways of working and management support facilities which I believe I will excel in."
The candidate should confirm that they wish to undertake the role as they feel their skills and experiences closely match the job description and also want to work for an establishment like the University due to being part of an Organisation that is progressing and developing.
Here is an answer example: "I applied for the University Administrator role as my skills and experiences to date have been within a busy office environment to date, where delivering excellent customer service was a must. I also want to work for an Organisation in which I can progress and develop and build on my current abilities. I feel that the University will have established ways of working and management support facilities which I believe I will excel in."
Why are you the best candidate for the role of University Administrator, and what can you bring to the team?
Professional Answers Preview
"I am the best candidate for the University Administrator role as I am a team player, approachable, organized, have a great eye for detail, am adaptable meaning I can multi-task while keeping things on track to achieve key deadlines and most of all love all things administration. With all this in mind, I will be there to pick up on anything that comes in last minute without getting flustered and ensure that I always play my part in ensuring as a Department we always meet our targets and work activities."
Before your interview, you should create a list of your strengths. Write down your accomplishments in your past roles that relate to this position. Knowing your accomplishments and strengths in this role, will not only help you answer this question but will help you answer several more throughout your interview.
The reason we recommend writing down your answers is that it should help trigger accomplishments in which you may have forgotten.
Here is an answer example: "I am the best candidate for the University Administrator role as I am a team player, approachable, organized, have a great eye for detail, am adaptable meaning I can multi-task while keeping things on track to achieve key deadlines and most of all love all things administration. With all this in mind, I will be there to pick up on anything that comes in last minute without getting flustered and ensure that I always play my part in ensuring as a Department we always meet our targets and work activities."
Give an example of a time when you have had to reprioritize your workload to handle competing priorities. How did you handle this, and what was the outcome?
Due to the nature of the role, you may sometimes be required to complete some lengthy data input tasks. How will you ensure you remain focused and motivated on the task at hand?
Give an example of a time when you have delivered excellent customer service, and why is this important in this role?
Question 2 of 30
Give an example of a time when you have been faced with a challenging situation. How did you overcome this, and what did you learn from it?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
The biggest challenge was making sure we offered relevant and accessible services and support for families and engaging with the hardest to reach but we worked as a team to identify and engage those families and support them to engage with us. Our reach and engagement increased by 47% over the three years I was CCL.
2.
We struggled to provide enough space for our students. The University had long term strategies to resolve this, but in the short term we had to do what we could to try to encourage customers to use the space efficiently (eg not leaving in demand desks occupied whilst they went for lunch) We launched an initiative to try to change attitudes and held meetings with students to get input from them. Getting students on board with the project was a real help, and made a noticeable impact. Fewer desks were left unattended, and students began to police the policy themselves.
3.
Trying to get practical exams sorted without timetable clashes.
4.
Effective communication is a problem. I have tried to help in this matter by contacting via email and phone team members for up to date information and clarity on issues.
5.
Recruitment, inappropriate internet use, plagiarism, negative thinking.
6.
Integration of staff into one department. Working with staff to get them to buy into new department and getting them involved in looking at best practice from previous systems.
7.
At my last position I face a mejor challenge and problem that is, my financial problem.
8.
Something I've faced in many jobs in resistance to change. I've learned that being firm in my own position, clear with my communication and patient with colleagues is the best approach for facilitating positive changes in the workplace.
9.
Challenge was undergoing major redundancies in the company whilst having to maintain the remaining resources to complete contracted projects.
10.
Working for the past eighteen months with a foreclosure imminent while still maintaining a positive attitude.
11.
Demand of dealing staff in place of retired staff.
12.
Laboratories facility is the most challenging to me.
13.
In my last position the challenges were getting all the clients names right and had patience to listen to them on the phone even if some of them were angry.
14.
To get the colleagues to agree to a seminar date and the problems that I faced was most of the speakers were going on summer holidays when we informed them about the conference.
15.
Being in middle management is a challenge overall. You are the middle person between upper management and your team. You need to satisfy both sides without ever pining one against the other. I have been told that I am very diplomatic and this is something I seem to navigate seamlessly.
What behaviours and skills do you feel are essential when working in a team?
Question 4 of 30
We are interested to know what motivated you to apply for this role? Why do you want to work for our University?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I know their university has a museums, 6000 postgraduate, 12000 undergraduate, and there is betwen river cam.
2.
I have worked directly with students at Kings College London and at The University of Sheffield, and am experienced in finding solutions to students' problems. I myself have lived in university accommodation, both in the UK and abroad, so I understand how important it is that students feel at home and supported in their halls. I'd be proud to be part of the team providing this support.
3.
I have been with the UoE for the last 4 years and enjoy the work ethics, atmosphere and camaraderie.
4.
My experiences at C: 1) flexible course schedule helped me finish my BA while still working full-time. Accessible, cutting edge research, the underdog.
5.
It is a respectable institution that has won most improved university of the year.
It is an environment that encourages learning and building new skills.
It invests in new resources and initiatives such as the the online dibs system that was introduced by miss lad.
6.
Research leader in the world. Impressed with system of 24 campuses. Research continues to grow in spite of funding problems nationally.
7.
I am in a similar role at present and have been in the same university for over 20 years. I believe I have made a positive impact of supporting the department that I work in but I am interested in how other universities operate and support research so I would like to broaden my experience.
8.
In my current role I have had long term exposure to academic institutions through an annual summer program which provides a pathway to employement. Having never had the opportunity to undertake tertiary study and having a very inquisitive nature I would like the opportunity to transition my administration skills to the academic sector.
9.
I believe that my skill set would compliment the role on offer. The university employees a diverse group of professionals who are encouraged to LIVE the values and are encouraged by continuous learning and training. The flexibility and cohesiveness of teams is also appealing to me.
10.
I like to move to an institute like this where priorities given to good teaching practice.
11.
I have worked in the university medical and student admissions administration. I am very enthusiastic in the medical work and assisting the student in the administrative way to achieve their future goals and also their welfare when the come to the
university.
12.
It a well known place with a very qualified staff.
Why are you the best candidate for the role of University Administrator, and what can you bring to the team?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I am experienced in handling student enquiries through previous roles. 1. I'm an active listener and ask the right questions to get the root of an enquiry. 2. I communicate clearly and politely, and give relevant and helpful info in logical steps 3. I am a good problem solver 4. I'm self motivated 5. I deliver excellent customer service.
2.
I am quick at learning new skills and adapting to changes. I am skilled and qualified for the job.
3.
My qualifications aside, we share identical values.
4.
Because I am passionate, committed, hardworking and I can promise I will not let you down but will be a huge asset.
5.
I have breadth and depth in neuroscience, pharmacology, CNS disease. I have experience with clinical, translation, and basic research. I possess a Certificate in Management and other training, and have held leadership/admin positions in research. I have also worked in both the private sector and academic sectors that include Pharma, Biotech, and university, and hospital settings. I have wanted to transition to admin for several years. I am enthusiastic about this transition. I also see it as an opportunity to use my creativity.
6.
I have over 20 years experience and believe that I am good at my job, I deliver, I am flexible and academics are aware of this.
7.
My skills and capability are well developed and address the selection criteria for the role. I would bring an enthusiastic and motivated personality to the role.
8.
My extensive project and administration skills, my understanding that the role will require additional learning and thaat I have the drive and ambition to complete these learnings to enhance the role and deliver exceptional outcomes in project management and administration.
9.
I have all kind of academic experience and can contribute a departmental life in many ways.
10.
As a postgraduate administrator. I was put to the test by my line manager within few months l have just taken the post, when my colleague became ill and have to be rushed to the hospital in the night. As the student induction and enrolment was the next
day I managed to enrolled the students by reorganising the time slot. After that l was given the staff recognising award of the year. So l think my experience will help in this position as the university administrator.
11.
Iam a fast learner, hard working person, always looking for the new things to learn and th experience
also I like to socialize with different types of people.
Can you give an example of a time when you have had to deal with a difficult or disappointing outcome? How did you handle this, and move forward?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I review a situation and reflect on what went well and what didnt go well. I think about how I could handle an enquiry better in future, and seek training if necessary.
2.
Ice cream and netflix for a day, then put things behind me, reassess, and move on.
3.
By going away and thinking about where I went wrong. Establishing this by asking for feedback and then working on the area that let me down.
4.
Experience the emotions briefly and then analyse why things did not work out the way I thought. Once this has been done devise a plan for the future to get around the obstacles.
5.
I see disappointment as a learning situation. For example, recently, I had been heavily involved in a large bid and had spent a lot of time on it but it became apparent through the peer review process that it did not quite answer the call and it was decided that the bid should not progress. I was disappointed but I had gathered a lot of experience and made a number of connections which could be used in the future.
6.
Initially of course I have a feeling of dissappointment, then I take a moment to reflect on the outcome and the reasons for why it is so and plan what my next steps forward will be.
7.
Of course dissappointment is an emotion so I would feel this emotion, then review the of events which led me to feeling like this, how I might have done things differently to alter the outcome and look to what I can do next going forward to improve in the future.
8.
Whenever I get disappointment I try to find my flaws behind it and work hard to get over it.
9.
I try to take it as a learning experience and move on.
10.
I tell my self I am better than that, I support myself, and try again.
Describe an experience you have had dealing with a difficult person. How did you handle the situation and what was the outcome?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I had to let a parent know that the room she usually had to wait in was not available as we had booked for perinatal support group..... She was not happy and said she hadn't needed any help when she was pregnant and just got on with it! I explained how not we were there to support everyone and this meant sharing resources and compromise. She left angrily but later came back and apologised as she understood I was in the right and her attitude did soften.
We did have some individual complaints, however, often decisions affected a lot of people because we provided group activities etc. We had a lot of concerns from parents when we had to change provision and we arranged group meetings to explain our rationale and why we made decsion, for the good of everyone, not just a few. I took feedback, responded in person and to group and set up new provision. Most parents came back after a while and understood our reasons, just didn't like it.
2.
A customer was recently very upset to discover that she owed nearly £30 in library fines, and stated that she would not pay them. I very calmly suggested that we have a look at how the fines had built up, and showed her how a series of small fines had added up. I made sure that she knew how to avoid fines by checking due dates, renewing books online, and returning books 24/7 at any drop-box. I empathised with her situation, and made sure that she understood that we weren't asking her to pay the sum all at once. I made a detailed note on her account and we agreed that she could continue to use her account provided that she made a contribution of at least £2 a week toward her fines. I felt comfortable agreeing to this because it was easy for my colleagues to see the agreement on her record, and we could easily revoke access if she didnt hold up her side of the deal. She was grateful for my understanding, and paid off the fines over a period of several weeks. I try to deal with situations like this calmly and with empathy, which customers respond well to.
3.
One of the tutor was very upset at not getting the hours that he thought he was supposed to get, I explained the process of how the hours are given and the reason for the number of hours that he was assigned. He was content with the information that I gave him.
4.
My boss was completely at loggerheads with the art dept. Coordinator. It got to the point where he customized his ring tone to play the Jaws theme song whenever she called. I humored both of them and made sure that I did most of the interactions between our department and hers,
5.
Part of working in the hub is screening all the learners that enquire into our courses before booking them onto an assessment. This involves asking a series of questions to establish if they are suitable. On one occasion whilst in the process of this the gentleman became upset as to why I was asking so many questions. I calmly explained to him that this is part of my job and I ask everyone the same questions. I was honest and explained why we have to ask these questions. He eventually starting to understand, calmed down and apologised .
6.
Payam, poor thesis quality, became 2nd author, many revisions to thesis, stated the facts in letters of reference,
7.
Moving staff into a shared working space where a member of staff found accepting change difficult. I engaged with the person, listened, acknowledged their fears. Calmly and positively I outlined the benefits of the new situation and asked them to try and embrace it and they did.
8.
Managing mitigating circumstances was often very emotional for the students as their lives had seriously interfered with their studies. I spoke to one student for an hour to ensure that they felt listened to and that I understood the full extent of their difficulties. I showed empathy for his situation but was able to be firm about the university regulations in ensuring he provided the evidence required for the mitigating circumstances panel that he was submitting a claim to.
9.
Dealing with a staff member who was taking credit for work which I had produced. I approached the person and explained that I was dissappointed that my work was presented as his and that I did not want this to happen again and if this person required support in preparing material for a meeting I would definitely help but to not pass of the work as his.
10.
Dealing with a colleague who was under a lot of stress and I requested information which must have been the straw which broke the camels back. She reacted by yelling and being abusive to me. After my initial shock I removed myself from the situation, sat by myself and reviewed the logical process of what just happened making sure me being upset was not purely and emotional reaction. Later in the morning I approached my coworker and asked if we could have a conversation about the event earlier int he day and told her how I felt that I was attacked when doing my job. We talked through the process and agreed that it could have been handled better but would move on from the episode. Now I make sure that when I am dealing with colleagues it is always be introduction 'hi how are you? before making a request.
11.
How to demand staff in place of retired staff.
12.
An academic staff who was victimising a student for no just reason. I invited him to my office and discussed some issues that appealed to his before discussing the matter which was amicably resolved.
13.
With my co-worker over taking classes which we have to take both, as he took leaves unofficially so loads of completion of syllabus come to me as my responsibility.
i sort it out talking to him just to make me informed previously so that I can manage those classes.
14.
I went to the patient and took him aside from the reception area. I apologised for appointment delay and told the patient that there was an emergency at the consulting room and it would be the patient's turn soon. I also fetched the patient a glass of
water and the patient became calm again. In end he apologised for shouting to the staff.
15.
Having worked in the retail sector in the past, and dealing with members of the public on a day-to-day basis, you would occasionally come into contact with someone who was unhappy with a situation. One particular instance involved a customer coming into the shop to make a complaint about a cake he had bought previously. Despite the man acting in a way that could be considered quite malicious and problematic, I remained calm and asked the customer what he feels should be done to resolve his disapproval. The man asked that he be refunded for his purchase, which (once checking the guidelines of this with staff) I quickly did. He further asked for an address to write a complaint to, and whilst apologising that he had had an experience that had made him unhappy, provided him with the required address.
What role do you feel an administrator plays in an office dynamic?
Question 9 of 30
Tell us about your previous work/professional experience. How do you feel this will be transferable into the position you have applied for?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
“I’m really energetic, and a great communicator. Working in the various positons for 5 years helped me build confidence, and taught me the importance of being an administrator in academic setting. I’ve also got a track record of success. In my last role, I juggled a variety of task and became subject matter expert on concur, HRMS, Finance and CU marketplace.
2.
I have a lot. Most of which is transferable.
3.
Degrees, training with top people. Chairs, Interactions with donors. Many media appearances talking about research funding, why the public or donors should support research.
4.
Professional administrator with solid background in executive support, project support, IT, event management in the research, health and manfucaturing sectors. A professional, mature and motivated individual with a can do attitude and whatever it takes approach to completing tasks.
Question 10 of 30
How do you ensure you have clearly and accurately understood an inquiry or request that has been allocated to you?
Question 11 of 30
Give an example of a time when you have had to reprioritize your workload to handle competing priorities. How did you handle this, and what was the outcome?
Question 12 of 30
What different computer systems do you have experience with, in relation to the storing and collating of information?
Question 13 of 30
Why is data protection important, and what measures could be taken within this role to ensure information is stored correctly?
Question 14 of 30
Tell me about a time when you have had to adapt quickly to new policies and procedures.
Question 15 of 30
Give an example of a time when you have had to implement a new process or procedure to solve a business issue. What was the outcome of this?
Question 16 of 30
What does Equality of Opportunity mean to you?
Question 17 of 30
What is your availability like to work within this role? Do you have any specific requirements we need to take into consideration?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I work the hours required to do the job. There will be times when you need to be flexible and therefore may need to work more that the contracted hours.
2.
I can work 36.75 hours per week, however I am generally flexible when workload requires that I be available and some notice is provided to me.
Question 18 of 30
How would your former employer describe you?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Excellent team player, detail oriented, empathetic, reliable, creative.
2.
Outstanding in service/admin and above average in many areas of research and teaching. Qualities of a dean and a leader. Highly productive. Attempts to do it all. Highly intelligence and adaptable. Resourceful.
3.
Organised, knowledgeable, flexible and hardworking.
4.
Professional, organised and motivated employee with a thirst for knowledge.
5.
Professional, efficient, organised and friendly.
6.
Reliable, hardworking, team player, ability to work under pressure and get the work done and amazing sense of humour that brightens the office.
7.
Hard working, ambitious, nice, social, fast learner.
How do you evaluate success in a professional capacity?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
To me success is where I was able to deliver on a complete project from concept to executition. I can give you an example of when I have to reconcile an $100 million within. I completed this project with very little supervision very successfully. After that I reconcile these account on a yearly basis around $20m.
2.
Many things to consider here: quantitative success (project, skill, talent); but also qualitative: happiness, satisfaction, enthusiasm.
3.
Accomplish of target goals. Winning. Being better than you were.
4.
At work I evaluate success through tangile outputs from projects, meeting KPIs and feedback from my immediate manager. Away from work I evaluate success through the things I do which help myself and others. One example is to help a family member to purchase a property, making some small sacrifices to see someone else achieve success is a reward or success to me.
5.
By measurable tangible outcomes, by the feedback from my peers and my own personal satisfaction and happiness.
6.
Success is measured by the performance targets you have agreed with yourline-manager.
7.
By reaching your goal, being recognized as person who always tries his best to do his work.
You would think that because I am interested in sales, only financial compensation would motivate me to achieve. Although monetary rewards are important to me, I am driven to succeed internally. More than anything, I want to be respected by my friends and coworkers for being the best at what I do. Whether I am considered to be the best car detailer in my hometown or the best columnist for my college newspaper, I want to be recognized as the best.
2.
My sense of happiness / satisfaction is directly related to being thorough when it comes to work. Success is a consequence of this.
3.
Being part of something bigger than myself. Accomplishing tasks not done before. Maintaining an outstanding reputation. Working for the greater good.
4.
Having clear goals, supportive team members, the tools and materials required to complete tasks and a positive attitude.
5.
I am afraid if I slow down I will not be stimulated.
What do you think is your biggest weakness from both a personal and professional capacity?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Organization has been somewhat of a issue with me a while ago. But I overcome by learning outlook and get task done in a timely manner.
2.
Putting myself out there, self-doubt, especially in the case of public speaking. Overcoming this issue has been a challenge every step of the way, but it is doable.
3.
Seasonal depression. Short days, Feeling isolated.
4.
My reservedness. Not being 'a voice' when given the opportunity. I am attempting to overcome this with my interactions with others and my public speaking and presentations.
Question 22 of 30
What do you know about our University?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Nearly half a millions alumni have led the way in business, science the arts, health care and their communciites, and they are joined by 15,000 more each year. Third largest employer in the state.
2.
Can you be more specific? This could be a long answer.
3.
24 campuses. World leader. Growing. Ranked as 49th. Expenditures over 800 million.
4.
I know that Deakin Unversity established in 1974 has five campuses and is one of the top 50 global universities VC is Jane de Hollander, large research university and my current role research projects with Deakin Nutrition have been undertaken.
5.
I know it has a lot of faculties like engineering and business administration.
What are your future career aspirations and where do you see yourself in five years?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Although it is hard to predict the future, I sincerely believe that I will become a very good Administrator. I believe that my abilities will allow me to excel to the point that I can seek other opportunities as a DFA (the next step) and possibly even higher. My ultimate goal continues to be the best and will always be — to be the best at whatever level I am working at within University.
2.
I see myself in a similar environment, perhaps in a position with more responsibility, and perhaps with additional upgrading such as HR and project management courses. But definitely in a University admin. Setting.
3.
Directing several programs in office of research. Development of new programs. Continued teaching and research.
4.
I would like to see myself still employed at Deakin University but having moved into another administrative, perhaps in another faculty.
5.
Having a master degree and maybe teaching in a unversity.
If you are successful at interview, how do you intend on making an impact within the role of University Administrator?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
By helping those who are helping other by that I mean helping faculty/provider all the support that they need to perform their mission and becoming part of that success that would translater into million of dollars in grant /revenue for University.
2.
I intend to situate myself in the position I am hired for, to learn everything about it, to emphasize that which works best and to diligently research other similar programs, to source the best ideas possible, and to tailor a program for C that takes the best from the past, rejuvenate it with fresh ideas, and implement the plan in line with the goals and values of C
3.
Making a great school greater by creating new programs, linking units, putting out 110%. Want to see the university ranked in top 5,
4.
I will definitely bring my project management experience, my experience with dealing with undergraduate students and their experiences at university and my committment to LIVE the future which would extend to contributing ideas to make a difference, strengthening communities at Deakin and with external stakeholders and possibly live my passion and undertake a part time tertiary study.
5.
Iam welling to study all of your startigies and try to come with new things to improve it.
What do you think are the most important skills required when working in a customer facing position?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Yes, I am people person. I love working with people I work with. Helping them in achieving their goals on a daily basis. We work in a team environment where every piece is of equal importance. If one piece falter then the chain would break. I am a very important piece of that chain.
2.
I am. I am very empathetic. I am also very student-savvy. I treat others how I myself would like to be treated. My love of students makes me happy to go the extra mile to resolve a problem or answer a question.
3.
Yes, I enjoy meeting with people and learning about their backgrounds and interests. I can talk easily to people of different income levels to to people of various educational levels.
4.
Yes, I like to be around people, interact with people, learn from people and to share experiences with people.
Question 26 of 30
Tell me about your education to date. How has this prepared you for a career as a University Administrator?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
Besides learning how to be a meticulous researcher, I have learned to discern real accomplishment, how to help others maximize their potential, I've learned how universities work.
2.
I have worked with top people at top institutions. I have generalized to some degree. BS in General Science, PhD in Neuroscience. I also took more science than what was required out of interest. In addition, I have broad training in different sectors. All of this adds great value to being an administrator.
3.
I completed year 12 in 1984. Unfortunately I was unable to pursue tertiary education after high school and during the course of my career and having a family there has not been an opportunity to undertake a degree. However I have over 25 years of solid administrative experience in varied sectors and roles which I believe has prepared me for the role with your organisation.
4.
Unfortunatley it didnt, I completed Year 12 only however my on the job training the past 25 years has definitely taught me the ins and outs of administration.
5.
In 2008 I completed Higher Education Certificate and Pass in Business Management and Human Resources course at Oxford Brookes University while I was working with the university as a Postgraduate Courses Administrator. In 1993 I went Oxford Further Education to study Secretarial and Office Administration in NVQ L1&2, RSA L1&2 pass with distinction, to re-fresh my skills after raising a family. I was a college trained secretary which I worked as such for 9 years. The training has given me he necessary knowledge and skills for office administration.
6.
Well my education is different from the administration field.
Give an example of a time when you have had to work within a pressurised environment. How did you react?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
I enjoy being busy, and the start of a new academic year is always a very busy time. I plan ahead and try to anticipate needs before issues arise. I keep track of tasks in Outlook, and for bigger projects, I break things down into stages, and use a traffic light system to track my progress, and to share this with colleagues. I check in regularly with my colleagues to clarify team priorities and to review our progress. I work closely with my colleagues to ensure that we are working efficiently and not duplicating one another's efforts. I think communication, teamwork and organisation are the keys to dealing with pressure.
2.
I do. I find deadlines helpful in that they focus me and enable me to break down tasks and prioritize effectively.
3.
I excel under pressure because I have a passionate can do attitude. I stay calm and think carefully about what my priorities are and feel motivated to do well.
4.
The concept of pressure -similar to stress- is something that is perceived. An efficient approach and mental attitude can cope with any type of pressure or stress. Proper organization and efficient time management practices lower so called pressures. That is planning ahead and expecting threats, and rainy days is key.
5.
Yes, I m used to working to strict deadlines on a number of projects at the same time.
6.
Yes I do work well under pressure. I maintain a methodical, logical approach, prioritising tasks for completion.
7.
Yes I do. In pressured situations I tend to look at the larger picture to assess what the priorities are and then focus on the detail of completing the tasks.
8.
Yes. I thrive under pressure. I use To do list things, using outlook calendar for communication.
Tell me how you organise, plan, and prioritise your work. Do you use specific tools or techniques to assist you in the workplace?
User-Submitted Answers
1.
First thing: know what I am doing, what the job / project entails, research until I have a very solid sense of the big picture. Then, break down tasks. Then, prioritize tasks and delegate appropriately providing a clear schedule of deadlines.
2.
I create a series of timelines/calendars, yearly, monthly, weekly, etc. to organize my time and plan my events. I also utilize MS project to supervise and plan projects for people that work for me. I also create a list of all my action items and rank these action items by deadlines and levels of importance. Activities on my daily calendar have to be completed in almost all cases. With regard to staff they send me weekly updates and we have monthly meetings. I also have yearly performance reviews for my staff. I also use tips from books like 7 habits for highly effective people (time management schemes)
3.
I work to deadlines and plan what is required to be done in order to meet those deadlines. I work with a project plan in terms of the submission of bids and I am proactive in working with academics in ensuring that we are on track for the submission deadline.
4.
I use MS Outlook calendar so that my appointments can be scheduled or seen by other colleagues. I use reminders and stickly notes on my laptop desktop and I keep a notepad 'to do' running list at hand editing this as tasks are assisgned and completed.
5.
I am a heavy user of MS Outlook calendars and tasks. I also use a notepad/running sheet next to my keyboard to cross of completed tasks.
6.
Action plan to help me to focus ideas. Steps to take to achieve particular goals. Lists of tasks to do with priority effectively.
7.
I make a to do list, starting with the most difficult consuming time tasks.
I like being able to bounce ideas off my colleagues and really enjoy working on team projects, I find it easy to stay motivated when we have team goals to work towards. I'd define teamwork as a group of people working in cooperation to achieve team goals.
2.
I do. Teamwork is what happens when each member is trusted to do his / her job.
3.
I have always worked well in a team because I understand how to respect others. I also am incredibly supportive, is I feel that a colleague could do with some help, I will offer. Teamwork is successfully working together to ensure we provide excellent customer service and meet deadlines.
4.
I have had many team building classes/workshops while at Pfizer and in other environments. I excel in team environments. Teamwork involves, leadership, facilitation, best practices, and compromise among stakeholders with various egos, interests, and expertises.
5.
Teamwork is working to a collective objective.
6.
Yes I do work well in a team. Currently I am a member of the administration and executive teams. I define teamwork as a group of individuals bringing their skills and knowledge together to complete an objective.
7.
Teamwork is a group of individuals many with different and complimenting skills coming together to work on one task to deliver an outcome.
8.
Yes, team work means to work togather with the guys in your team . Team work hels industry to grow faster.
9.
Yes. Team work is when everyone shares information and contribute to different ideas.
10.
Teamwork is a way to get the best result, because we share opinions and experience.
Due to the nature of the role, you may sometimes be required to complete some lengthy data input tasks. How will you ensure you remain focused and motivated on the task at hand?
About University Administrator
January 6th, 2015
Postsecondary education administrators oversee student services, academics, and research at colleges and universities. Their job duties vary depending on the area of the college they manage, such as admissions, student life, or the office of the registrar.