How to Answer: We want our volunteers to come to us with creative ideas. Tell me about a time when you took a creative approach to solving a problem.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Volunteer job interview.
5. We want our volunteers to come to us with creative ideas. Tell me about a time when you took a creative approach to solving a problem.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are capable of creative solutions to everyday problems. Think of a time when you had an unexpected suggestion in the workplace. Non-profit organizations love to hire candidates who are innovative, and able to implement their ideas. Focus more on your creative approach, rather than the problem itself.
Written by Christine Pasqueretta
Entry Level
"Creativity is the best way to solve problems. Two associates were having trouble understanding the work that the other one did, and this was impacting the overall group. I pitched that the two individuals switch roles for two weeks to better understand their impact on the organization's success. They both came out of the experience having felt a new appreciation for another's job, and now they are cross-trained too!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Our company canceled this year's annual holiday party due to budget cuts. Everyone was disappointed because it's a fun way to get to know your teammates on a different level. I decided to take my team out, on my dime, because it is a significant way to build engagement and excitement. They appreciated the gesture, and I was happy with how well they performed in the weeks to come."
Written by Christine Pasqueretta
Experienced
"I like thinking outside the box. I was once tasked with better tracking our inventory to make sure small parts, like nuts and bolts, were ordered on time and not too early causing a surplus. I spent time counting how many screws were in a full bin vs. avg how many we used per day. I then took a piece of red electrical tape and made a line on the bin that would give us a rough estimate of a week's worth of screws left, enough time to order and receive some more. A simple and free solution."
Written by Rachelle Enns