Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision regarding set decoration. How did you ensure it was the right choice?

Sample answer to the question

One time, I was working on a film set and had to make a quick decision regarding set decoration. We were shooting a scene in a character's living room, and the director wanted a specific piece of artwork to hang on the wall. However, the artwork they had chosen clashed with the overall color scheme and aesthetic of the room. I quickly realized that we needed to find a better solution. I suggested using a different piece of artwork that I had seen earlier in the day, which not only matched the color scheme but also added a unique element to the room. The director agreed, and we made the switch just in time for the scene. By trusting my instinct and thinking on my feet, I ensured that the set decoration was the right choice.

A more solid answer

During a theater production, I was responsible for the set decoration of a period piece. We had limited time and budget, so I had to think quickly. One day, I received a last-minute request to find a chandelier that fit the era and style of the play. I immediately conducted online research and reached out to local antique shops. After several phone calls and visits, I found a perfect match within our budget. I coordinated with the lighting department to ensure proper installation and placement. The quick decision-making process allowed us to stay on schedule and create an authentic set that enhanced the audience's experience. This experience showcased my strong artistic vision and creativity, ability to work within tight budgets and timelines, and good research and sourcing skills.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a specific and detailed example that demonstrates the candidate's skills and abilities in line with the evaluation areas and the job description. It showcases their ability to think quickly, conduct research and sourcing, and work within tight budgets and timelines. However, it could still be improved by providing more information on the candidate's organizational and project management skills, as well as their communication and teamwork abilities.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a set decorator for a television series, I encountered a situation where I had to make a quick decision regarding set decoration. We were filming a crucial scene in a character's office, and the lighting setup required a specific type of desk lamp. However, the lamp we had originally planned to use suddenly malfunctioned. With little time to spare, I immediately contacted local prop houses and rental companies to find a replacement. After several calls, I found a similar style lamp that was available nearby. I coordinated with the production assistant to arrange for a courier to pick up the lamp and deliver it to the set in record time. The quick decision-making and efficient communication ensured that the scene could proceed without any delays. This experience highlighted not only my strong artistic vision and creativity but also my excellent design and spatial awareness, strong organizational and project management skills, as well as effective communication and teamwork abilities.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a detailed and complex example that covers all the evaluation areas and aligns with the job description. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to think quickly, conduct research and sourcing, work within tight budgets and timelines, and effectively communicate and collaborate with other team members. The specific details of finding a replacement lamp and coordinating its delivery showcase their excellent organizational and project management skills. This answer provides a comprehensive view of the candidate's abilities and experiences.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you had to make quick decisions regarding set decoration. Think about the specific challenges you faced and how you resolved them.
Brush up on your knowledge of different artistic styles, historical periods, and interior design concepts. This will help you make informed decisions when selecting set decoration elements.
Practice effective communication and collaboration skills. Set decoration often involves working closely with other departments, so showcasing your ability to work as part of a team is essential.
Develop your research and sourcing skills. Familiarize yourself with local prop houses, rental companies, and other resources for acquiring set decoration elements.
Consider hypothetical scenarios and think through how you would approach them. This will help you develop a quick decision-making process and build confidence in your abilities.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong artistic vision and creativity
Excellent design and spatial awareness
Ability to work within tight budgets and timelines
Good research and sourcing skills
Strong organizational and project management skills
Effective communication and teamwork abilities