Share with me an occasion when you made a quick decision.

Question Analysis

This question is designed to evaluate your decision-making skills, particularly in situations where time is limited. The interviewer is looking for your ability to assess situations quickly, make decisions under pressure, and the outcomes of those decisions. It's important to highlight your thought process and the factors you considered in making the quick decision. Use the STAR method to structure your response: Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, our team was in the middle of a critical project with a tight deadline. One day, our main supplier informed us that they would not be able to deliver a crucial component on time due to unforeseen circumstances.

Task: As the project manager, I needed to quickly find an alternative solution to keep the project on track without compromising quality.

Action: I immediately convened a team meeting to assess our options. I contacted several alternative suppliers and evaluated their ability to deliver the needed component within the required timeframe. After a brief assessment, I made the decision to go with a reputable local supplier who could deliver the component within 24 hours, albeit at a slightly higher cost.

Result: The decision to switch suppliers allowed us to maintain our project schedule without any delays. The project was completed on time, and our client was satisfied with the outcome. This quick decision not only saved the project but also strengthened our relationship with a new supplier, providing us with more options for future projects.