JUNIOR LEVEL

Tell me about a time when you had to work on multiple projects with competing deadlines. How did you manage your time?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous job as a financial analyst, I had to work on multiple projects with competing deadlines on a regular basis. One time, I was assigned to analyze the financial statements of three different companies and prepare a report for each of them within a week. To manage my time effectively, I first prioritized the projects based on their deadlines and importance. Then, I broke down each project into smaller tasks and created a detailed schedule. I allocated specific blocks of time each day to work on each project and set reminders to stay on track. I also made sure to communicate with my team and clients about the deadlines and any potential delays or issues that may arise. By staying organized and focused, I was able to complete all three projects on time and deliver high-quality reports.

A more solid answer

In my previous job as a financial analyst, I frequently dealt with simultaneous projects and tight deadlines. One notable instance was when I had to manage financial forecasting for three different clients, with each project requiring a week-long turnaround. To effectively manage my time, I first assessed the complexity and urgency of each project, then created a detailed project plan. I broke down the tasks into smaller sub-tasks and estimated the time needed for each. I used project management software to track progress and set reminders for important milestones. Additionally, I communicated with the clients to set clear expectations and address any potential roadblocks. By diligently following my project plan, staying focused, and effectively prioritizing my tasks, I successfully completed all three projects on time, exceeding clients' expectations.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific details and examples of the candidate's time management and organizational skills. It demonstrates their ability to assess complexity, create a project plan, break down tasks, use project management software, communicate with clients, and successfully complete multiple projects on time.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a financial analyst, I encountered a challenging situation where I had to handle five different projects with competing deadlines. Each project required extensive financial modeling and data analysis. To effectively manage my time, I implemented a proactive approach. First, I evaluated the urgency and complexity of each project and created a prioritization matrix. Then, I broke down the tasks into manageable chunks and assigned them specific time slots in my calendar. I utilized project management software to track progress and set reminders for important milestones. Additionally, I scheduled regular check-ins with my team to ensure alignment and address any challenges. By applying agile project management principles, such as daily stand-up meetings and iterative feedback loops, I was able to adapt quickly to changing priorities and allocate resources efficiently. Despite the demanding workload, I successfully completed all five projects ahead of schedule, receiving praise from both clients and senior management for my exceptional time management and organizational skills.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by introducing a more challenging scenario with a higher number of projects and emphasizing the candidate's ability to handle complex financial modeling and data analysis tasks. It demonstrates their strategic thinking in creating a prioritization matrix and incorporating agile project management principles to adapt to changing priorities. By completing all the projects ahead of schedule and receiving praise from clients and senior management, the answer showcases the candidate's exceptional time management and organizational skills.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with project management principles and tools, such as creating project plans, breaking down tasks, and using project management software.
Practice assessing the urgency and complexity of tasks/projects and creating a prioritization matrix to effectively manage your time.
Highlight examples from your past experience where you successfully completed multiple projects with competing deadlines.
Emphasize your ability to adapt quickly and handle pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrate your proactive communication skills by mentioning regular check-ins with teams and clients to ensure alignment and address challenges.

What interviewers are evaluating

Time management and organizational skills