Tell me about a time when you had to influence stakeholders to adopt a new solution
Theme: Influence Role: Business Analyst Function: Technology
Interview Question for Business Analyst: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Business Analyst: Analyze business processes and requirements to propose technology solutions. This role falls within the Technology function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Influence with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Context: Provide a brief overview of the situation and the stakeholders involved
- Identifying the need for a new solution: Explain how you recognized the need for a new solution and why it was necessary
- Research & analysis: Describe the steps you took to gather information and analyze potential solutions
- Developing a persuasive argument: Explain how you crafted a compelling case for the new solution, highlighting its benefits and addressing potential concerns
- Engaging stakeholders: Detail the strategies you employed to engage and influence stakeholders, such as conducting presentations, organizing meetings, or seeking their input
- Addressing resistance: Discuss any resistance or objections you encountered and how you effectively addressed them
- Implementing the new solution: Explain how you successfully implemented the new solution, including any challenges faced and how you overcame them
- Measuring success: Describe the metrics or indicators you used to measure the success of the new solution and how it positively impacted the stakeholders
- Lessons learned: Reflect on the experience and highlight any key lessons or takeaways that can be applied to future situations
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Leadership skills: Assessing your ability to influence and persuade stakeholders to adopt a new solution
- Problem-solving skills: Evaluating your approach to identifying and addressing stakeholder concerns and objections
- Communication skills: Understanding how effectively you can articulate the benefits and value of the new solution to stakeholders
- Collaboration skills: Assessing your ability to work with diverse stakeholders and build consensus around the new solution
- Adaptability: Evaluating your flexibility in adjusting your approach to meet the needs and preferences of different stakeholders
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of specific example: Not providing a clear and specific example of a time when you influenced stakeholders to adopt a new solution
- Lack of stakeholder understanding: Failing to demonstrate a deep understanding of the stakeholders involved and their needs
- Lack of preparation: Not being prepared with a well-thought-out plan or strategy to influence stakeholders
- Inability to handle resistance: Not addressing or overcoming resistance from stakeholders effectively
- Lack of collaboration: Failing to highlight the importance of collaboration and teamwork in influencing stakeholders
- Lack of measurable impact: Not providing clear evidence of the positive impact your influence had on stakeholders and the adoption of the new solution
- Lack of adaptability: Not demonstrating the ability to adapt your approach or strategy based on the needs and preferences of different stakeholders