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Management & Leadership Interview

Decision Making Question(s) & Actual Evaluation

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* Please note that the following answer(s) are just sample answers from one of our candidates. It doesn't mean that it's the correct or wrong answer.
Please refer to the evaluation for more insight.


  • Classification: Management & Leadership
  • Topic(s): Decision Making
Interview Question:

Can you describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision? What process did you follow to arrive at your decision?

Candidate's Answer:

I don't know

Evaluation:

Your answer of "I don't know" is not appropriate for the interview question regarding a difficult decision and the decision-making process you followed. This response lacks substance and does not demonstrate your ability to reflect on past experiences, analyze situations, or showcase your decision-making skills, all of which are crucial for management and leadership roles.

When faced with this type of question, interviewers are looking for examples that highlight your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle pressure. A more effective response would include a specific situation, the factors you considered, the process you followed to reach your decision, the outcome, and any lessons learned.

To improve your answer, follow these steps:

1. Select a Relevant Scenario: Think of a specific time when you faced a tough decision in a professional context.
2. Use the STAR Method: Structure your response using Situation, Task, Action, and Result to provide a clear narrative.
3. Explain Your Process: Detail how you assessed the situation, gathered information, considered alternatives, and consulted with others if necessary.
4. Discuss the Outcome: Share what happened as a result of your decision and any insights gained from the experience.

For instance, instead of saying "I don't know," you could say, "In my previous role, I faced a situation where we had to choose between increasing budget allocations for marketing or investing in staff training. I gathered data from both departments, consulted with team leaders, and ultimately recommended investing in training, which improved overall productivity."

Rating: 1/5