Basic Q’s Flashcards
Tell me about yourself
Through my experience with MassDOT in both the service and contact centers over a period of 4 years, combined with my experiences increasing operational efficiency, I’ve developed the skills to maintain focus on even the most challenging assignments, identify problems early on, and see patterns and connections.
Furthermore, I realize what motivates me is, both enabling others to thrive and succeed, as well as designing something new. I am looking for the opportunity connect these pieces together to create real value for my department and organization.
From my research, I think this opportunity would be a great fit. I look forward to learning more today.
What is your biggest strength?
Based on past experiences, I would have to say :
I am able to maintain focus for long periods of time- as a result, I develop a deeper understanding of complex situations, and uncover critical details that others may miss, therefore identifying potential patterns and issues.
I have a keen sense of observation and notice subtleties and discrepancies that can dramatically change outcomes. As a result, I uncover problems early before they become large or costly.
I am a visual thinker that can see improvements on products and designs, and can effectively communicate utilizing symbols, charts, and models to explain how these ideas will potentially impact our overall operations.
What is your biggest weakness
A. I am an outgoing person who loves meeting and talking with people. But I need to be mindful that I am not perceived as talking too much. When speaking with quieter individuals, I have learned to ask questions and give them time to frame their thoughts, so they feel heard.
B. I am someone who keeps a busy schedule and enjoys getting a lot done. But at times it’s hard for me to take a step back and get perspective. I’ve learned that I need to push myself to look around for alternative solutions to ensure that I delegate some tasks to others, in order to be as effective as possible
What personal characteristics make you effective?
How would your team describe your work style?
Others consider me someone who is responsible and efficient. I keep on top of my work, always get a lot done, and do everything in my power to keep deadlines and promises. This would be an essential skill in the regular updates required for the customer accounts maintained by the ELT coordinator.
I am considered someone who is imaginative and open minded. I generate new ideas and have intuitive insights that build on and strengthen what’s been done before.
How do you solve problems?
I use a combination of interpersonal skills and more classic problem-solving skills.
I dive into caller’s problems headfirst by asking clarifying questions, then carefully and patiently work through the entire situation until the right solution is found.
I quickly size up the situation by recognizing the subtle cues that signal the underlying problem.
I use work orders and visuals to map out the solution and put in the request if I cannot personally resolve the issue.
What can you do for this company?
How are you different from everyone else?
Why should we hire you?
I bring a unique combination of strengths, skills and experiences that will enable me to create real value for MassDot.
I am someone who can complete difficult and complicated projects and stop problems in the early stages.
In addition, I excel in the role of a communicator, as someone who improves the success of others by providing feedback and advice, and as an originator-someone who can generate a variety of novel ideas.
These characteristics combined with my past experiences, and values match providing exceptional service to the people of Massachusetts make me a uniquely qualified candidate.
How do you organize and plan for major projects?
With any project, I believe it is critical to understand the project goals, available resources, key parameters, deadlines and other guidelines.
I set aside time to clear my plate of distractions and thoroughly evaluate what needs to get done.
I try to find potential pitfalls that could impede the project’s progress.
Visualize the project in its entirety to understand how it fits together and I create progress maps.
With this background work done, my team and I are ready to put the pieces in place. I set project benchmarks, assign roles, allocate budgets, and consider various What Ifs before placing the project into action.
Are you more of a forest or a trees person?
Are you focused on the big picture or the details?
How would your team describe your attention to detail?
I understand that both keeping track of details, and seeing how the pieces fit together are critical to success. So I pay careful attention to both of these sides. I also bring various abilities that help me keep focus.
I develop concepts to support the work,
I focus on the specific components of my work.
I spot the subtle details that can change results.
How do you handle pressure?
How do you handle a heavy workload?
I’m happiest when I am busy and have a lot of work to do. I feel at home in a hard-working or production driven environment. I enjoy digging in, getting my hands dirty, and seeing rapid results-all of which are part of working in a high pressure environment. My strengths enable me to deliver results in this situation. I dismiss distractions and work tirelessly towards the goal.
I quickly recognize and address problems that pop up so they don’t intrude on the flow of work. I like to Visualize the workflow and I create a map for the day.
I remain calm and I ensure the team and the work are not compromised because of the stress. And overall I commit the time and the energy needed to successfully get the job done.
How will you stay interested over the long haul?
I am motivated by work that aligns well with who I am.
On a daily basis, I want to be helping others to develop and become more successful, developing new solutions to challenges, and seeing real tangible results from my work.
Over a longer timeframe, I find fulfillment through work that lets me take on challenging situations and overcome obstacles, and through the opportunity to constantly learn new things.
From researching and learning about this job, I believe the department is a good fit for me, and this work will keep me engaged over the long term.
In what kind of environment/culture do you thrive?
I do my best work in an environment, where the people around me are high energy, results oriented, busy, and also unconventional or creative. I thrive in a culture that is intellectual or cutting edge.
Describe your ideal career?
What are your long-term career goals?
What do you really want to accomplish in life?
What are you looking for in your next job?
In my ideal career, I’d have the opportunity to learn and grow while building on my foundation of skills and experiences.
I would apply my strengths of in-depth focus, as well as problem recognition, in order to develop the abilities of others and produce intuitive designs.
On a broader scale, my work would have the impact of completing what many said couldn’t be done, and also of chartering new intellectual territory.
What motivates you?
In my work responsibilities, I find that I become deeply engaged by helping others become successful, designing and developing new approaches, and delivering tangible and measurable results.
I am also energized by being part of an organization that fits well with who I am.
Finally, I become motivated by knowing what my work can complete what seemed at first glance impossible, foster intellectual growth, and produce time saving improvements.
What type of people do you work with most effectively?
I find that I get along well, and am highly effective, working with many types of people. But I probably work most effectively with people who are outgoing, results oriented, and able to get work done, along with creative thinkers.
What types of people do you have difficulty working with?
While I found that I can work well with almost anyone, I do find it a bit challenging to work with individuals who tend to put work off as it frustrates me that even when they have nothing to do, it still takes a long time to see results.
I also find it challenging to work with individuals who refuse to consider alternative approaches.
