Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a demanding or difficult supervisor. How did you handle the situation?
Administration Manager Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
In my previous role, I had a supervisor who had very high expectations and could be quite demanding. There was one instance when I was working on a project and the supervisor kept changing their requirements and deadlines, which made it very challenging for me to keep up. However, I handled the situation by proactively communicating with my supervisor and discussing my concerns. I provided updates on my progress and expressed my difficulties in meeting the changing expectations. I also suggested alternative solutions and proposed a more realistic timeline. By being transparent and proactive in my communication, I was able to alleviate some of the supervisor's pressure and together we found a compromise that worked for both of us.
A more solid answer
In my previous role, I had a supervisor who had very high expectations and could be quite demanding. There was one particular project where the supervisor constantly changed the requirements and deadlines, making it difficult for me to keep up. To handle the situation, I scheduled a meeting with my supervisor to discuss my concerns and express how the frequent changes were affecting my work. I presented my progress and shared the challenges I faced in meeting the changing expectations. I also proposed alternative solutions and suggested a more realistic timeline. By taking a proactive approach and initiating open communication, I was able to alleviate some of the supervisor's pressure and create a more collaborative environment. We reached a compromise that allowed for more realistic deadlines and clearer expectations, which ultimately improved the project's outcome.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer provides more specific details and examples of the candidate's actions and outcomes. It highlights their proactive approach in scheduling a meeting, presenting their progress, and suggesting alternative solutions. The answer also emphasizes the positive outcome of improved collaboration and project outcome. However, it could still be further improved by including specific examples of the alternative solutions proposed by the candidate.
An exceptional answer
In my previous role, I had a supervisor who had very high expectations and could be quite demanding. There was a crucial project where the supervisor constantly changed the requirements and deadlines, creating significant challenges for the whole team. To address the situation, I took the initiative to schedule a meeting with the supervisor, the team members, and myself. During the meeting, I facilitated an open dialogue to understand the underlying reasons behind the frequent changes. By actively listening and probing for insights, I discovered that the supervisor was responding to evolving client needs and internal pressure. Armed with this understanding, I proposed a more flexible project management approach that could accommodate the changing requirements without compromising quality. I suggested implementing Agile principles, such as iterative development and regular feedback loops. To gain buy-in from the supervisor and the team, I prepared a detailed presentation highlighting the benefits of Agile and how it aligns with our organizational goals. Through my efforts, the team embraced the new approach, and we successfully delivered the project within the revised timeframe while maintaining client satisfaction. This experience taught me the importance of proactive communication and adapting to changing situations in order to achieve successful outcomes.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the candidate's experience with a demanding supervisor. It highlights the candidate's exceptional problem-solving skills and adaptability in proposing and implementing a more flexible project management approach. The answer also demonstrates their strong communication skills and ability to facilitate open dialogue and gain buy-in from the supervisor and the team. The overall outcome of successfully delivering the project within the revised timeframe and maintaining client satisfaction showcases the candidate's effectiveness in handling difficult situations. The answer could be further improved by including specific examples of the benefits and results achieved through the Agile approach.
How to prepare for this question
- Reflect on a specific time when you faced a demanding or difficult supervisor and think about the challenges you encountered and how you handled them.
- Consider the specific skills and qualities mentioned in the job description, such as proficiency in MS Office, ability to work independently and as part of a team, and capacity to manage and maintain confidential information. Relate your example to these skills to show your fit for the role.
- Prepare specific examples of alternative solutions or approaches you proposed in dealing with the difficult supervisor, such as suggesting a more realistic timeline or proposing a different project management methodology.
- Practice your communication skills, both in expressing your concerns and actively listening to understand the supervisor's perspective. Showcase your ability to effectively communicate and collaborate in challenging situations.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Communication Skills
- Problem Solving
- Adaptability
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