Project Management

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Struggling with explaining projects during interviews

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Erikka Cullum Baltimore, United States
Hello PM's.

I'm struggling with explaining my projects during job interviews. I know the projects in and out but find myself wanting to say, "I got it done" or "I just make it happen" HELP!! I guess I don't know how to explain step by step how I move projects forward. Thank you for any wisdom you can provide.

Best,
Erikka
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Erikka Cullum Baltimore, United States
Jun 01, 2019 5:14 PM
Replying to Eric Isom
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1) Know your audience. Speak their language. Speak to their interests.
2) Give examples. Tell stories. These are engaging and memorable. They can set you apart from other candidates.
Agreed! Thanks Eric.
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Raed Aweina Director of Programs| Flatter Inc. Washington, Dc, United States
I would follow the PMI processes telling the story:
Initiating: What was the need and why
Planning: How your plan was detailed and accurate, and approved
Executing: How you successfully managed the project applying the PM experience you have, mention your communication and integration skills here
Monitoring and Controlling: I would mention any problem solving skills keeping the project in track.
Closing: How Stakeholders were satisfied with the final product and deliverables
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1 reply by Eric Isom
Jun 03, 2019 8:01 PM
Eric Isom
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Interesting approach.
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Kimberly Chatak-Nelson PM| FinTech Industry Nc, United States
Write what you’d like to convey, regarding your actions and successes, on several projects. Practice. Get comfortable with what you’re written. Then, don’t hesitate to refer to your document mid-interview.

I keep project notes in the front pocket of my interview professional portfolio. At least once per interview, I find myself starting to answer a different question with the same project or scenario. I pull out my list, scan it, and find the best project and scenario to fit the interview question. Your preparation and organization - and answers - will impress the interviewer.
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1 reply by Erikka Cullum
Jun 04, 2019 11:13 AM
Erikka Cullum
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Hmmm, thanks!!! never thought to use notes during the interview. I thought it looked more favorable if you can speak extemporaneously during an interview.
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Eric Isom Owner| learn.pmguaranteed.com Ut, United States
Jun 02, 2019 6:55 AM
Replying to Raed Aweina
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I would follow the PMI processes telling the story:
Initiating: What was the need and why
Planning: How your plan was detailed and accurate, and approved
Executing: How you successfully managed the project applying the PM experience you have, mention your communication and integration skills here
Monitoring and Controlling: I would mention any problem solving skills keeping the project in track.
Closing: How Stakeholders were satisfied with the final product and deliverables
Interesting approach.
avatar
Erikka Cullum Baltimore, United States
Jun 02, 2019 3:30 PM
Replying to Kimberly Chatak-Nelson
...
Write what you’d like to convey, regarding your actions and successes, on several projects. Practice. Get comfortable with what you’re written. Then, don’t hesitate to refer to your document mid-interview.

I keep project notes in the front pocket of my interview professional portfolio. At least once per interview, I find myself starting to answer a different question with the same project or scenario. I pull out my list, scan it, and find the best project and scenario to fit the interview question. Your preparation and organization - and answers - will impress the interviewer.
Hmmm, thanks!!! never thought to use notes during the interview. I thought it looked more favorable if you can speak extemporaneously during an interview.
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