What do you do if your problem-solving skills are put to the test during a career change interview?

Actively listen to the interviewer: Pay close attention to the scenario presented and ensure you fully understand the nature of the problem. Ask clarifying questions: Don't hesitate to ask for additional information or details to ensure you're on the right track.

Understand the Problem: Start by carefully listening to the problem presented and seeking clarification if needed to ensure that you understand it fully. Pay attention to all relevant details, constraints and objectives involved in the scenario. Clarify Objectives: Clarify the objectives or desired outcomes of solving the problem to ensure that you are aligned with the interviewer's expectations. Understand what success looks like and what criteria will be used to evaluate your solution. Break Down the Problem: Break down the problem into smaller, more manageable components to gain a better understanding of its underlying factors and potential solutions. Identify any patterns, trends or root causes that may be contributing to the problem.

When this situation presents itself in an interview session, in my opinion, the very first thing you should do before the interview is be prepared with a personal story that will highlight your ability to solve problems. Your story should highlight that you can identify the problem, come up with possible solutions, choose the right solution, implement the solution, and weigh the outcomes of that solution. As someone who has problem-solving skills you should be able to use a personal experience from a past situation to deal with this question. A real-life experience will also make a good impact.

I have heard from my mentors like Dhavan Patel(Owner of Codebasic YouTube Channel and ATLIQ Software Company)Try to relate it to a similar situation that you have faced or solved before. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your story and highlight your skills.

Brainstorm openly: Think creatively and explore various potential solutions without immediately settling on the first idea that comes to mind. Demonstrate your thought process: Verbally express your thought process as you consider different approaches. This showcases your analytical thinking and ability to approach a problem from multiple angles.

Evaluate each option: Weigh the pros and cons of each potential solution, considering factors like feasibility, effectiveness, and potential risks. Justify your choice: Explain your reasoning for selecting the preferred solution and articulate how it addresses the identified problem.

In some interview scenarios, you might be asked to propose a specific course of action: Outline the initial steps you would take to implement the chosen solution.

Reflexiona sobre cómo evaluarías el éxito de la solución implementada y qué harías si no produce los resultados esperados. Mostrar que puedes pensar críticamente sobre los resultados y estar preparado para adaptarte es esencial. Personalmente, he enfatizado la importancia de la retroalimentación y el aprendizaje continuo en este paso.

Consider potential outcomes: Briefly discuss how you would measure the success of the implemented solution and how you would handle any unforeseen challenges.

Además de abordar el problema en sí, es importante demostrar habilidades blandas como la comunicación efectiva, el trabajo en equipo y la resiliencia. Los entrevistadores a menudo buscan cómo te enfrentas a los desafíos y trabajas bajo presión tanto como las soluciones específicas que ofreces.