Tell me about a time when you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline
Theme: Stress Management Role: Investment Banker Function: Finance
Interview Question for Investment Banker: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Investment Banker: Advises clients on financial investments and deals. This role falls within the Finance function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Stress Management 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 deadline you were facing
- Challenge: Explain the specific challenges or obstacles you encountered while working under pressure
- Actions: Describe the steps you took to manage the pressure and meet the deadline
- Results: Highlight the outcome of your efforts and the impact of meeting the deadline
- Skills & Qualities: Discuss the skills and qualities you demonstrated during this experience
- Learning & Growth: Share any lessons learned or personal growth achieved from this experience
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Ability to handle stress: Assessing how well you can perform under pressure and meet deadlines
- Time management skills: Evaluating your ability to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively
- Problem-solving skills: Determining how you handle challenges and find solutions in high-pressure situations
- Work ethic: Assessing your commitment to meeting deadlines and delivering results
- Teamwork & collaboration: Evaluating your ability to work effectively with others under pressure
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 worked under pressure to meet a deadline
- Inability to handle pressure: Demonstrating an inability to handle pressure or showing signs of stress or panic in the response
- Blaming others: Blaming others or making excuses for not meeting the deadline instead of taking responsibility for the situation
- Lack of preparation: Not being prepared to provide a well-structured and coherent response, indicating a lack of attention to detail or lack of interest in the role
- Negative attitude: Displaying a negative attitude towards working under pressure or expressing a dislike for deadlines, which may raise concerns about your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment