Here's how you can ask thought-provoking questions in an operational planning interview.

One method that worked for me before is asking how KPIs are measured and what are the processes in place when a gap between the goal and the result is detected. That shows curiosity and your ability to add to their response demonstrate knowledge. To be more effective when asking those questions is better to make sure that both, words and body language, demonstrate hones curiosity and intentionally set an open mind tone. Do not approach any topic as if you know the one and only correct answer. That way we present ourselves as servants of changes not disruptors of processes.

Show that you understand different planning methods or goals. You can insert buzzwords that demonstrate your knowledge of the lingo as well as the context.

Analisando o assunto to pude mais uma vez confirmar a importancia de uma boa comunica??o, seja em qualquer área ou etapa do projeto. Fa?a sempre um KOM ( Kick off meeting ) para aberturas de projetos , entenda qual a necessidade de seu cliente antes de querer passar no que você pode ou pensa em entregar, no final das contas o cliente pode precisar de menos dados ou servi?os do que você e sua empresa podem entregar.

I would set a clear scenario, by providing the current situation and establishing clear objectives and delays. Then I would simply ask: WHAT would you do? and WHY in this order? If the one applying is targeting an operational position, I would ask him as well HOW...

To ask thought-provoking questions in an operational planning interview, focus on eliciting insights about strategic alignment, process optimization, and problem-solving. Examples include: "How do you ensure operational goals align with broader organizational objectives?" "Can you share a successful initiative where operational efficiency was significantly improved?" "How do you approach identifying and addressing bottlenecks in operational processes?" "In what ways do you foster collaboration between departments to enhance operational effectiveness?" "What measures do you take to adapt operational plans in response to changing market dynamics?" These questions prompt candidates to demonstrate critical thinking, strategic vision.

This approach can be very effective provided you have an example that articulates your main point. You will generate more conversation this way and thereby learn more in the process.

To ask a thought provoking question should involve a very clear knowledge of the industry dynamics and the question formulation should have a clear context and a set of possible options which add value to the discussion. Generic questions and just throwing some buzzwords may not be very much appreciated if the interviewer delves to ask clarifying questions with exact context and relevance to the industry and may often backfire.

“Imagine you're the operations manager of a retail store, and a sudden increase in demand for a specific product leads to a stock shortage. How would you adjust your operational plan to address this issue?" “You're the project lead for a new product launch, and the development team is facing unexpected delays. How would you revise the operational plan to get the project back on track?" These scenarios allow the interviewee to demonstrate their problem-solving skills, ability to think strategically, and capacity to adapt to changing circumstances – all essential qualities for effective operational planning.

L anticipation est la clef de vo?te d une stratégie opérationnelle performante. Savoir, c est prévoir, et prévoir c est commander.

I have found this line of questioning can be just as insightful for the group interviewing as the individual being interviewed. The nature of the operational processes can give you insights into how efficiently the company is run. Well-defined processes often suggest a well-organized company. Additionally, when it comes to cultural fit, understanding the operational processes can also give you a sense of the company’s culture. For instance, a company with a lot of bureaucracy might have rigid and complex processes. If you’re applying for a managerial or a role that involves process improvement, understanding the current operational processes is crucial. It can help you identify areas of improvement and discuss these during your interview.

Process exploration in an interview should be done on the basis of deep research from all possible sources about the existing processes of the company. It is crucial that the correct questions are asked which address and actual issue relating to functioning of a company. The ensuing discussion will itself reflect your knowledge and preparedness if you address the most critical aspects first.

Here are examples of thought-provoking questions tailored for the healthcare sector: Process Improvement: “Can you describe a time when you identified a bottleneck in a healthcare process and how you addressed it?” Decision Making: “How do you prioritize patient care processes when resources are limited?” Innovation: “What’s an example of a new procedure or technology you’ve implemented in a healthcare setting? What was the outcome?”

Here are the questions rephrased in a more casual, conversational tone to help you connect with the interviewee on a human level “Hey, can you tell me about a specific process you're currently working on? How's it going, and what are some of the challenges you're facing?" “So, how do you measure success in your role? What metrics or goals do you use to track progress, and how do you adjust your approach if things aren't going as planned?" “What's the biggest headache or inefficiency you're dealing with right now? How are you tackling it? By asking questions in a more conversational tone, you can help put the interviewee at ease and gain a better understanding of their thoughts, experiences, and approaches to process improvement.

Tech implementations can reveal the company's commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, its readiness to leverage data analytics and automation for efficiency, and its strategic approach to overcoming challenges through technological solutions. This inquiry not only highlights the company's technical capabilities but also its vision for future growth and resilience in a rapidly evolving market.

A) How has technology changed your work in operations? Has it made things easier or harder?" B) What upcoming technological advancements are you excited about, and how do you think they'll impact your work?" C)Can you share a time when technology helped you solve an operational problem? What tools did you use, and what did you learn from the experience?" The questions explore how technology has impacted their work, their enthusiasm for future innovations, and their ability to leverage technology to overcome challenges. They're designed to spark a conversation, making it easier to understand their relationship with technology in operational planning.

Tenho um exemplo prático sobre o assunto, somos uma empresa de inspe??es remotas, a primeira no mundo a fazer medi??o de espessura por ultrassom dentro de tanques de unidades offshore. Estamos buscando incessantemente a melhoria e avan?o na tecnologia, pois o avan?o tecnológico chegou para todos e nós fomos apenas os primeiros a fazer bom uso. Portanto, precisamos estar sempre a frente dos que vierem atrás buscando seu espa?o.

How is the company culture reflected in their business priorities? If you see a potential disconnect you can ask the interviewer to explain how they would address the issue, who they would reach out to, how they would seek consensus and approach a better decision outcome that best support the operations of the firm.

Blabla.... les valeurs de l entreprise doivent être connues (anticipation). D entrée il faut pas chercher à savoir comment s intégrer, il fait déjà être force de propositions pour démonter que la question de l intégration n est même pas un sujet car elle appara?t comme une evidence

Uma coisa que achei útil foi o despertar para novos horizontes, a tecnologia veio mais uma vez para tirar as pessoas do conforto de seu escritório os fazendo voltar para campo observar as novas tendências, pois quem tem suas tecnologias e seus avan?os n?o exp?e na íntegra em redes sociais, seguram as informa??es para si.

I find one of the best lines of questioning for operational planning is to ask big picture about the organization’s top 2-3 opportunities and 2-3 challenges ahead and how the position you are interviewing for can most effectively solve for those issues. This gives insight into the organization’s goals and risk areas and allows for you to share how you can help address those with your skills and experience.