Can you describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision that was not well-received by others?

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess your decision-making skills, particularly in challenging situations where your choices may not be popular. The interviewer is interested in understanding how you handle opposition, the rationale behind your decisions, and your ability to stand by your choices. This question evaluates your leadership qualities, problem-solving abilities, and resilience in the face of criticism or disagreement.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, we were approaching the deadline for a major product launch. However, during the final testing phase, we encountered a significant bug that could have led to a poor user experience.

Task: I had to decide whether to delay the launch to fix the bug or proceed as scheduled. The team was under significant pressure to meet the deadline, and delaying the launch was not a popular option as it could affect the company's quarterly revenue targets.

Action: After consulting with the development team and analyzing the potential impact of the bug, I decided to delay the launch by one week to ensure the issue was resolved. I communicated this decision to the stakeholders, providing a detailed explanation of the risks involved in proceeding without addressing the bug, and highlighting the long-term benefits of ensuring a quality product.

Result: Initially, the decision was met with resistance from both the sales team and some executives. However, once the product was launched, it received positive feedback from users, resulting in higher customer satisfaction and ultimately leading to increased sales. The decision to delay was later appreciated when the quality of the product was recognized as a factor in its success.

By using the STAR method, this answer demonstrates your ability to make tough decisions, communicate effectively, and prioritize long-term success over short-term gains.