Tell me about a time when you and your boss or an executive had differing views. How did you handle it?

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess your conflict resolution skills, communication abilities, and capacity to work collaboratively even when disagreements arise. The interviewer is looking for insights into how you handle differences of opinion, especially with someone in a higher position, and whether you can maintain professionalism and achieve a positive outcome. This is a behavioral question, so using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method will help you structure your response effectively.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, our team was tasked with implementing a new software system. My boss, the IT director, had a specific vision for the timeline and resources allocation.

Task: I noticed that the proposed timeline was overly ambitious, given our current workload and resource constraints. I needed to address this with my boss to ensure the project's success and avoid burnout for the team.

Action: I scheduled a meeting with my boss to discuss my concerns. During the meeting, I presented data that highlighted our current resource usage and projected workload. I proposed a revised timeline that balanced the project's needs with our capacity. I also suggested additional strategies, such as phased implementation, to ensure we met critical milestones without compromising quality.

Result: My boss appreciated the data-driven approach and acknowledged the potential risks with the initial plan. We agreed on the revised timeline, and I took the lead on adjusting the project plan and communicating the changes to the team. Ultimately, the project was delivered successfully, on the new schedule, with positive feedback from both users and stakeholders. This experience strengthened my relationship with my boss and demonstrated the importance of open communication and collaborative problem-solving.