Describe a situation where you had to deal with competing priorities. How did you handle it?

Service Delivery Manager Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a project coordinator, I frequently encountered situations where I had to deal with competing priorities. For example, I was responsible for managing multiple projects simultaneously, each with their own set of deadlines and deliverables. To handle this, I developed a system of prioritization based on the urgency and importance of each task. I would assess the impact of each project on the overall goals of the organization and prioritize accordingly. I would also communicate with my team members and stakeholders to ensure everyone was aware of the competing priorities and could provide input on the best course of action. Additionally, I would regularly review and reassess the priorities as new information or changes arose. This allowed me to effectively manage competing priorities and ensure that projects were completed on time and to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a project coordinator, I faced a challenging situation where I had to juggle multiple projects with competing priorities. One project required immediate attention due to a critical deadline, while another project demanded significant resources to address a client's urgent issue. To handle this, I first analyzed the impact of each project on the organization's goals and discussed with team members and stakeholders to gain a holistic understanding of the priorities. I then created a detailed project plan, allocating resources and setting realistic timelines for each project. To ensure effective communication and collaboration, I scheduled regular team meetings and provided updates on the progress of each project. In addition, I maintained close contact with the client to address their immediate needs while managing their expectations regarding the other projects. By closely monitoring the progress and making necessary adjustments along the way, I successfully delivered all projects on time and met the requirements of both internal and external stakeholders.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details and examples to illustrate the candidate's ability to handle competing priorities. It demonstrates the candidate's analytical skills in analyzing the impact of each project, their communication and collaboration skills in involving team members and stakeholders, and their project management skills in creating a detailed project plan. The mention of regular updates and close contact with the client further highlights the candidate's customer-oriented mindset. To improve the answer, the candidate could provide more specific examples of how they handled competing priorities and the outcomes they achieved.

An exceptional answer

As a project coordinator, I encountered a complex situation where I had to navigate competing priorities in a highly dynamic environment. One project required prompt attention due to a sudden change in client requirements, while another project faced significant delays due to unforeseen technical challenges. To tackle this, I immediately assembled a cross-functional team comprising experts from different departments to address the urgent client request. Simultaneously, I worked closely with the technical team to troubleshoot the challenges faced by the other project. By actively engaging in problem-solving discussions and leveraging my strong interpersonal skills, I facilitated effective collaboration and communication between the teams. I also implemented a flexible project management approach that allowed for adjustments and reprioritization based on the evolving needs of each project. Through constant monitoring and close coordination, I successfully resolved the client request while minimizing the impact on the delayed project. The proactive measures I took ensured that both projects were ultimately delivered on time, meeting the expectations of the clients and maintaining strong customer relationships.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a highly detailed and compelling example of the candidate's ability to handle competing priorities. It demonstrates their agility in assembling cross-functional teams, their problem-solving skills in addressing technical challenges, and their strong interpersonal skills in facilitating collaboration and communication. The mention of a flexible project management approach and constant monitoring showcases their adaptive and proactive nature. Overall, the answer showcases the candidate's expertise in managing complex situations and delivering successful outcomes. To further enhance the answer, the candidate could include specific metrics or quantifiable results achieved as a result of their actions.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you had to manage competing priorities and the strategies you employed. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to prioritize effectively.
Familiarize yourself with project management methodologies and tools to demonstrate your knowledge in this area.
Practice articulating how you communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure alignment and to navigate competing priorities.
Consider the importance of adaptability and flexibility in handling competing priorities, and think of examples that demonstrate your ability to adjust plans and reprioritize when needed.
Highlight your problem-solving skills by discussing how you analyze and resolve challenges arising from competing priorities.

What interviewers are evaluating

Time Management
Communication
Problem Solving
Prioritization
Teamwork