Can you describe a time when you had to make a quick decision under pressure?

Sample answer to the question

Yes, I can definitely describe a time when I had to make a quick decision under pressure. In my previous job as a sales representative, there was a situation where a key client was about to cancel a large order due to a misunderstanding in the pricing. The client was very upset and demanded an immediate resolution. In that moment, I quickly gathered all the relevant information about the pricing issue and consulted with my supervisor. After discussing the options, we decided to offer a significant discount to the client to retain their business. I communicated this decision to the client promptly and assured them that we value their partnership. The client was pleased with our speedy response and accepted the offer, saving the order and maintaining a valuable business relationship.

A more solid answer

Certainly! Let me share with you a time when I had to make a quick decision under pressure. In my previous role as a Junior Sales Manager, our team was working on a major project with a tight deadline. One day, just a few hours before the deadline, we encountered a technical glitch that threatened to delay the delivery of the project. As the team leader, I had to act swiftly to ensure a successful completion. First, I analyzed the situation and identified the root cause of the glitch. Then, I gathered the team members involved and brainstormed potential solutions. After evaluating the pros and cons of each option, we decided to allocate additional resources and extend our working hours to fix the issue. I immediately communicated this decision to the team and ensured everyone understood their roles. With our swift action and collaborative effort, we managed to resolve the glitch and deliver the project on time, earning praise from our clients and superiors.

Why this is a more solid answer:

This is a solid answer as it provides specific details about the situation, the candidate's role in the decision-making process, and the actions taken to resolve the issue. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to think quickly, analyze problems, and effectively communicate decisions under pressure. However, it could benefit from further elaboration on how the candidate's decision impacted the overall outcome of the project and how it aligned with the organization's goals.

An exceptional answer

Absolutely! Let me share a remarkable experience when I had to make a quick decision under immense pressure. As a Junior Sales Manager, I was leading a team responsible for organizing a high-profile product launch event. On the day of the event, just minutes before the scheduled start time, we were informed that the audiovisual equipment had malfunctioned and couldn't be fixed in time. With hundreds of attendees waiting anxiously, I had to act swiftly to salvage the situation. First, I calmly assessed the available options, considering the impact on the audience's experience and the overall objective of the event. After brainstorming with my team, we decided to quickly rearrange the event program, shifting the focus to guest speakers who could engage the crowd without relying heavily on visual aids. I quickly communicated the revised plan to the team, the speakers, and the audience, ensuring everyone was on the same page and ready for the modified experience. Despite the unexpected setback, the event was a huge success, receiving positive feedback from attendees and even gaining media attention for our adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This is an exceptional answer as it provides a detailed and captivating story of a challenging situation where the candidate had to make a quick decision under extreme pressure. The candidate showcases their ability to remain calm, assess options, collaborate with the team, and communicate effectively to ensure a positive outcome. The answer also demonstrates the candidate's ability to think creatively and respond quickly to unexpected obstacles. However, it could further emphasize the specific skills and qualities (such as adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving) that were essential in making the decision and achieving success in the face of adversity.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you had to make quick decisions under pressure and identify the specific skills and qualities that were crucial in those situations.
Practice storytelling to effectively communicate your experiences and decision-making process with clarity and impact.
Familiarize yourself with relevant case studies or examples from the maritime industry where quick decisions under pressure had significant impacts.
Develop strategies for maintaining composure and remaining calm during stressful situations. Consider techniques such as deep breathing or visualization.
Enhance your knowledge of the maritime industry, including market trends, regulations, and key players, to demonstrate your understanding of the industry's challenges and dynamics.

What interviewers are evaluating

Decision-making
Under pressure
Communication