Give an example of when you made a decision that was unpopular.

Question Analysis

This question aims to assess your decision-making skills, particularly in situations where your choice might not align with the preferences or expectations of others. It explores your ability to stand by your decisions and navigate potential conflicts or disagreements. The interviewer is interested in understanding how you handle resistance and whether you can effectively communicate and justify your decisions. Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method will help you provide a structured and comprehensive response.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, we were working on a critical project with a tight deadline. The team was accustomed to using a particular project management tool, which was becoming increasingly inefficient for our growing needs.

Task: I needed to ensure that the project was completed on time without compromising on quality. This required improving our workflow, even if it meant making an unpopular decision.

Action: After thorough research and analysis, I decided to switch to a more efficient project management tool. I anticipated resistance because it involved a learning curve, and the team was comfortable with the existing tool. I organized a meeting to explain the reasoning behind the change, demonstrating how the new tool would enhance productivity and streamline processes. I also arranged training sessions to ease the transition.

Result: Initially, there was some pushback, but as the team became familiar with the new tool, they noticed significant improvements in efficiency and collaboration. The project was completed ahead of schedule, and the team ultimately appreciated the change, acknowledging that it improved our overall workflow.