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Mastering Problem-Solving Interview Questions

The document provides guidance on how to effectively answer problem-solving questions in interviews using the STAR method, which stands for situation, task, action, and result. It emphasizes the importance of structuring responses to showcase competencies and offers common examples of problem-solving questions. Additionally, it outlines pitfalls to avoid, such as giving generic answers, losing confidence, and rushing through responses.

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89 views1 page

Mastering Problem-Solving Interview Questions

The document provides guidance on how to effectively answer problem-solving questions in interviews using the STAR method, which stands for situation, task, action, and result. It emphasizes the importance of structuring responses to showcase competencies and offers common examples of problem-solving questions. Additionally, it outlines pitfalls to avoid, such as giving generic answers, losing confidence, and rushing through responses.

Uploaded by

binuscariasdb
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

HOW TO ANSWER PROBLEM-SOLVING QUESTIONS

Binu Scaria SDB

Problem-solving questions encourage you to give answers about your past


experiences, decision-making process, and ability to arrive at creative solutions. Learning
how to answer questions in an interview means learning how to tell a good story, so your
answer should have a clear structure, unique topic, and compelling journey to demonstrate
your competencies.

The STAR method is a common technique for answering problem-solving interview


questions clearly and thoughtfully. The acronym stands for situation, task, action, and result.
It provides a simple structure that gives your response a smooth beginning, middle, and end.
Here’s how to use the STAR method to describe past on-the-job experiences or hypothetical
situations:
1. Situation: Start with a problem statement that clearly defines the situation.
2. Task: Explain your role in the situation. What is, or would be your responsibility?
3. Action: Recount the steps or problem-solving strategies you used, or would use, to
overcome the problem.
4. Result: Share what you achieved or would hope to resolve through your problem-
solving process.

Common problem-solving questions and answers


1. Give us an example of when you faced an unexpected challenge at work. What did you
do to face it?
2. How would you manage a frustrated youth?
3. Describe a time you made a mistake at work. How did you fix it?
4. Have you ever had a difficult time working with a team member? How did you deal with
the situation?
5. Tell me about a time you created an innovative solution with limited information or
resources.

Things to avoid when answering problem-solving questions


1. Don’t clam up: It's okay to take your time to reflect, but never abstain from
answering. An interviewer will understand if you need to pause and think. If you’re
really stumped, you can ask to return to that question later in the interview.
2. Avoid generic answers: Generic answers show a lack of creativity and innovation.
Use the opportunity to explain what makes you and your problem-solving process
unique.
3. Don’t lose confidence: How you answer is as important as what you answer. Do
your best to practice confident body language, like eye contact and strong posture.
Practicing ahead of time can help alleviate pressure while you’re answering.
4. Try not to rush: Rushing through an answer could make it unclear or incoherent,
which might reflect poorly on your ability to keep a level head. Practice mindful
breathing and pace yourself. Answer slowly and deliberately.

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