Can you give an example of a time when you had to influence stakeholders to adopt governance best practices?
Governance Manager Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
In my previous role as a Governance Specialist, I had to influence stakeholders to adopt governance best practices when implementing a new compliance program. I started by conducting research to identify the most effective practices in our industry and gathered data to support my recommendations. I then created a presentation highlighting the benefits of adopting these practices and presented it to the senior leadership team. I also organized workshops and training sessions to educate employees about the importance of governance and how it can benefit our organization. By providing clear explanations and real-life examples, I was able to successfully influence stakeholders to embrace the new governance best practices.
A more solid answer
As a Governance Manager, I faced a situation where stakeholders were resistant to adopting governance best practices. To overcome this challenge, I took a proactive approach by first conducting a thorough assessment of the organization's governance processes and identified areas for improvement. I then created a comprehensive proposal outlining the benefits of implementing these practices and presented it to the executive team. To address any concerns or objections, I organized individual meetings with key stakeholders to understand their perspectives and address their specific needs. By actively listening and demonstrating the positive impact of governance best practices on the organization's operations and compliance, I was able to effectively influence stakeholders and gain their support. I also collaborated with the HR department to develop a training program on governance best practices, ensuring that employees were equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement and sustain these practices.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer includes more details about the candidate's leadership skills by describing how they took a proactive approach, conducted assessments, and presented a comprehensive proposal. It also highlights their communication techniques by mentioning individual meetings with key stakeholders and collaborating with the HR department to develop a training program. The answer still lacks specific examples of strategic planning abilities and governance knowledge.
An exceptional answer
In my role as a Governance Manager at my previous company, I had to influence stakeholders to adopt governance best practices during a major organizational change. The company was going through a merger, and it was crucial to ensure that both parties adhered to the same governance framework. I initiated a series of meetings with the senior leadership teams from both companies to align their understanding of governance best practices and the benefits of their implementation. To support my arguments, I conducted benchmarking studies and shared industry best practices that showcased the positive outcomes of strong governance. Additionally, I developed a comprehensive change management plan that included clear milestones, communication strategies, and training sessions to facilitate the adoption of the new governance practices. By actively involving stakeholders in the decision-making process and addressing their concerns, I successfully influenced them to embrace the new governance framework, which ultimately led to a smooth merger and improved governance effectiveness.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer provides a more detailed and comprehensive example of the candidate's experience influencing stakeholders to adopt governance best practices. It showcases their strategic planning abilities by describing how they developed a change management plan and conducted benchmarking studies. The answer also highlights the candidate's governance knowledge by mentioning industry best practices and the benefits of strong governance. Furthermore, it demonstrates their leadership skills by actively involving stakeholders in the decision-making process and addressing their concerns.
How to prepare for this question
- Research and understand the relevant governance best practices in the industry.
- Prepare examples of successful experiences influencing stakeholders in past roles.
- Develop a comprehensive proposal outlining the benefits of adopting governance best practices.
- Practice active listening and effective communication techniques to address stakeholders' concerns and objections.
- Familiarize yourself with change management principles and strategies.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Leadership
- Communication
- Strategic Planning
- Governance Knowledge
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