Could you describe an instance where you received feedback that was not easy to accept, and how did you manage it?

Question Analysis

This question aims to assess your ability to handle constructive criticism and feedback, especially when it is difficult to accept. Interviewers are interested in understanding how you react to challenging situations, your willingness to learn and grow from feedback, and your communication and interpersonal skills. Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) will help you structure your answer effectively, showcasing your ability to process feedback and implement changes.

Answer

Situation: During my previous role as a project manager, I received feedback from a key stakeholder that my communication style in meetings was too technical and not easily understood by non-technical team members.

Task: My task was to ensure that all stakeholders, regardless of their technical background, clearly understood the project updates and felt informed enough to make decisions.

Action: To address this feedback, I first approached the stakeholder to gain a deeper understanding of their concerns and specific areas where my communication was lacking. I then took steps to adjust my approach by preparing more concise summaries, using visuals, and avoiding jargon in my presentations. Additionally, I sought feedback from team members after meetings to ensure clarity.

Result: As a result of these changes, the feedback from stakeholders improved significantly. Team members reported feeling more engaged and informed, and the overall project communication became more effective, leading to a smoother decision-making process and a successful project completion.

By reflecting on and acting upon the feedback, I enhanced my communication skills and improved my ability to cater to a diverse audience.