What is your approach to working under pressure and making quick decisions?

Sample answer to the question

When working under pressure, I prioritize staying calm and focused. I understand that quick decisions need to be made, so I rely on my experience and expertise to make informed choices. I have developed excellent time-management skills to ensure I can efficiently handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Additionally, effective communication is crucial during these high-pressure situations, so I make sure to keep open lines of communication with the team and provide clear instructions. Overall, my approach to working under pressure is to stay composed, make informed decisions, and effectively communicate with the team.

A more solid answer

When faced with pressure and the need to make quick decisions, I rely on a combination of preparation, adaptability, and clear communication. Firstly, I prepare myself by staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in camera technology, which allows me to anticipate potential challenges and be proactive in finding solutions. Secondly, I recognize the importance of adaptability and being able to think on my feet. I have honed my ability to quickly assess a situation, analyze the available options, and make informed decisions based on my experience and expertise. Lastly, clear communication is essential to ensure that everyone on the team is on the same page. I make sure to effectively communicate my decisions and rationale, while also being open to input and feedback from others. By combining these approaches, I am able to work efficiently under pressure and make quick decisions that align with the production's objectives.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provided more specific details about the candidate's approach to working under pressure and making quick decisions. It highlighted the candidate's preparation, adaptability, and clear communication as key factors in their ability to handle high-pressure situations. However, the answer could still be improved by providing concrete examples or stories that demonstrate the candidate's skills and experiences.

An exceptional answer

Working under pressure and making quick decisions is an area where I thrive. I have developed a systematic approach that allows me to excel even in high-stress situations. Firstly, I prioritize staying calm and focused, as this helps me think clearly and make rational decisions. Secondly, I rely on my extensive experience and expertise in camera operation to quickly assess the situation and identify the best course of action. I have encountered various challenges throughout my career and have built up a repertoire of techniques and solutions to draw upon. Additionally, I have cultivated excellent time-management skills, enabling me to efficiently handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Clear communication is also essential, and I actively ensure that I keep the team informed of my decisions and progress. Whenever possible, I involve them in the decision-making process to foster collaboration and gather different perspectives. By combining my calm demeanor, experience, time-management skills, and effective communication, I am able to work efficiently under pressure and make well-informed decisions that contribute to the success of the production.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provided a more detailed and comprehensive description of the candidate's approach to working under pressure and making quick decisions. It highlighted the candidate's calm demeanor, extensive experience and expertise, time-management skills, and effective communication as key factors in their ability to excel in high-pressure situations. The answer also emphasized the importance of involving the team in the decision-making process and fostering collaboration. Overall, the exceptional answer provided a strong demonstration of the candidate's capabilities in this area.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the latest camera technology, trends, and advancements in cinematography.
Develop your time-management skills to ensure you can efficiently handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Seek opportunities to practice making quick decisions under pressure, such as through simulations or real-world scenarios.
Improve your communication skills, both in terms of clearly conveying your decisions and actively listening to others.
Reflect on past experiences where you successfully worked under pressure and made quick decisions, and identify the strategies that worked well for you.

What interviewers are evaluating

Ability to work under pressure
Ability to make quick decisions
Communication skills
Experience and expertise