How to Answer “Tell Me About a Time When You Needed To Overcome External Obstacles To Complete a Task” in a an Interview

Why do employers ask this question?

During a job interview, employers often ask candidates about their ability to overcome challenges or obstacles in order to complete a task. This question allows the employer to understand how the candidate approaches and solves problems, and whether they have the resilience and determination to see a task through to completion.

How to answer the question

When answering this question, it's important to provide specific examples of a time when you needed to overcome external obstacles to complete a task. Avoid using vague or general statements and try to provide specific details about the challenge you faced, the actions you took to overcome it, and the outcome of your efforts. Here are some tips for answering this question effectively:

1. Think about past experiences where you had to overcome challenges or obstacles in order to complete a task. Choose an example that demonstrates your problem-solving skills and determination.
2. Use the STAR format to structure your answer:
   • S: Describe the situation or task that you needed to complete.
   • T: Explain the external obstacle or challenge that you faced.
   • A: Describe the actions you took to overcome the obstacle.
   • R: Share the result or outcome of your efforts.
3. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and how you were able to find a solution to the challenge you faced.
4. Avoid complaining or blaming others for the obstacle you faced. Instead, focus on how you took ownership of the problem and found a solution.

How to prepare for this question

Here are some tips for preparing for this question:

• Review the job description and requirements carefully. Think about the skills and experiences that the employer is looking for, and think about specific examples that demonstrate your ability to overcome challenges or obstacles.
• Practice your answer with a friend or family member. Have them ask you the question and see if you can answer it clearly and confidently.
• Think about the skills and qualities that you want to highlight in your answer. For example, do you want to show that you are a problem-solver, a team player, or a resilient and determined individual?
• Be honest in your answer and avoid making up an example. It's better to admit that you haven't faced many external obstacles in your career than to try to come up with an example that isn't authentic or believable.

Common Mistakes

1. Not providing specific examples One common mistake that interviewees make when answering this question is not providing specific examples of a time when they needed to overcome external obstacles to complete a task. It's important to provide specific details about the challenge you faced, the actions you took to overcome it, and the outcome of your efforts. Vague or general statements will not give the employer a clear understanding of your problem-solving skills and determination.

2. Complaining or blaming others

Another mistake to avoid is complaining or blaming others for the obstacle you faced. This can come across as unprofessional and may make the employer question your ability to take ownership of problems and find solutions. Instead, focus on the actions you took to overcome the obstacle and take responsibility for the outcome. 3. Not emphasizing your problem-solving skills It's important to show the employer that you have strong problem-solving skills and are able to find creative solutions to challenges. If you don't emphasize your problem-solving skills in your answer, the employer may not fully understand your approach to problem-solving and determination to see tasks through to completion.

4. Not using the STAR format

The STAR format is a useful tool for answering behavioral interview questions like this one. It helps you to structure your answer and provide specific examples of your skills and experiences. If you don't use the STAR format, your answer may be disorganized and difficult for the employer to follow.

Sample Answers

1. "One time when I needed to overcome external obstacles to complete a task was when I was working on a project at my previous company. The project involved collecting data from a large number of external sources, but several of the sources were not providing the information we needed in a timely manner. This was causing delays in our project schedule and putting us behind schedule.
   
   To overcome this obstacle, I reached out to the external sources and explained the importance of our project and the need for timely data. I also offered to provide any assistance they needed in order to help them provide the information we needed. As a result, several of the sources were able to provide the data more quickly, and we were able to get back on track and complete the project on time.
   
   This experience taught me the importance of persistence and the value of building strong relationships with external partners. It also helped me develop my problem-solving skills and my ability to think creatively in order to find solutions to challenges."


2. "One time when I needed to overcome external obstacles to complete a task was when I was working on a marketing campaign for a new product launch. We had a tight deadline and were relying on a number of external vendors to provide materials and support for the campaign. However, several of the vendors experienced delays and were unable to provide the materials on time.
   To overcome this obstacle, I worked closely with my team to identify alternative vendors and developed contingency plans in case the original vendors were unable to deliver. I also communicated regularly with the vendors to understand the root cause of the delays and to find ways to help them meet our deadlines.
   
   As a result, we were able to secure the necessary materials and support from alternative vendors, and the campaign was a success. This experience taught me the importance of being proactive and adaptable, and it helped me develop my ability to manage external relationships effectively."