How to answer "How do you handle competing priorities?" in a job interview

You're in a job interview, and things are going really well. Then the interviewer asks: "How do you handle competing priorities?"

You might think, "I just try to do my best and figure it out as I go."

But hold on! That's not the best way to answer it.

"How do you handle competing priorities" is just another way of the interviewer asking, "Can you stay focused and get things done when things get busy?"

The interviewer is evaluating these key points:

• Organization — How do you choose what to do first? How do you manage your time, and stay on track?

• Calm under pressure — When you have a lot going on, how do you not freak out?

• Adaptability — How do you adjust plans when things change?

• Communication — How do you let your team or manager know when plans change?

  

Now, think of a real example — maybe from a past job/internship or during university.

In your answer, explain:

1. What the situation was and what tasks you had to manage

2. How you planned your work and kept things under control

3. What you did when something unexpected came up

4. How you kept others informed and made sure everything got done on time

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If you're just starting out your career, you could say:

"During university, I often had to manage multiple tasks, such as group projects, presentations, and assignments. One example was when a major project and a presentation were due the same week.

I used a planner to break tasks into steps and set deadlines. I focused on completing the project first as, it had a higher weight on my grade. At the same time, I ensured my team had time to practice for the presentation. I kept everyone updated about any changes. Both tasks were completed on time, and the team was very happy with the outcome."

Jordan is at an interview for an administrative assistant role at a corporate office. The interviewer asks, "How do you handle competing priorities?"

A. In my previous role, I had to answer calls, send emails, schedule meetings, and make copies. I always handled things as they came in, focusing on them one by one and made sure I got everything done. If something unexpected came up, I worked late to finish everything. I always tried to keep up with the tasks throughout the day and made sure everything was completed.

B. I start each day by making a to-do list and prioritizing tasks. Recently, I had to arrange travel for a manager and finish an important report. Since the report was more urgent, I focused on completing it first and informed the manager of my plan. Once the report was done, I moved on to the travel booking. When the manager requested a last-minute change to the travel plans, I quickly adjusted my schedule, updated the manager, and made sure both tasks were completed on time.

Now that you know how to answer the question, "How do you handle competing priorities?" take time to prepare your answer.