Project management can be a highly rewarding, but challenging profession. During a project management job interview, you’ll be competing against other highly qualified candidates. Therefore, it is crucial you make a strong impression.
Above all else, preparation is key. Preparing for common interview questions will help you feel more confident and articulate your experience effectively.
So, what are some common project management interview questions and how do you answer them?
Why did you apply for this role/why do you want to work here?
Interviewers want to see that you are passionate about the role and their organisation. Answering this question requires some research. Take a look at the company’s website and social media. Consider their vision, mission, and goals, as well as how these align with yours.
What types of projects have you worked on?
Interviewers ask this question to get a sense of your experience in project management. To answer, share examples of successful projects you’ve managed, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and lessons learned
Have you ever had a project that didn’t meet the arranged deadline and budget?
Interviewers ask this question to see if you acknowledge your mistakes and can learn from them. They also want to see your time-management and conflict resolution skills. To answer this question, describe a time you overcame difficulties to complete a project.
What is the biggest mistake you have made on a project and what did you learn from it?
Similarly to the above question, interviewers want to see you can acknowledge your mistakes at work and learn from them. Remember, no one is perfect, and we all make mistakes. If you claim you’ve never made a mistake, you may come across as dishonest or lacking self-awareness.
What is your process for setting project goals?
Goal setting plays a crucial role in delivering projects on time and budget. Interviewers ask this question to assess your process for establishing clear, attainable goals.
What is the most important aspect of project management?
This question helps interviewers evaluate your understanding of project management principles and your management style. In your answer, highlight how your skills and experience align with the essential qualities of project management.
How do you handle conflict between team members?
Successful project management requires the ability to manage different personality traits and working styles. Interviewers ask this question to assess your conflict resolution skills and ability to work with others.
Can you provide an example of a time you offered support to underperforming team members?
It is a project manager’s responsibility to support team members who may be experiencing challenges. Therefore, interviewers ask this question to see how you provide support to others.
What is your leadership style?
Successful project management requires adaptability, flexibility and the ability to work with others. Interviewers ask this question to see your adaptability and how well you work with others.
What was your most successful project?
This question allows you to showcase your passion for project management and highlight your skills. Answer the question by providing an example of a successful project you worked on and the role you played in completing it.
Was your last project a success?
Interviewers ask this question to get a sense of what you’ve recently learned as a project manager. To answer this question, provide an example of a recent project you worked on, if you encountered any difficulties along the way and what you learned from the experience.
Project management interviews can be challenging. However, with preparation and self-reflection, you can give yourself the best chance of success.
Are you looking for a career in project management? Public Service Resumes can help. We offer various services including interview coaching for project management roles.
Article References
Indeed For Employers (15 January 2025) ‘Project Manager Interview Questions’, Indeed For Employers, accessed 3 March 2025.
Indeed (18 February 2023) ‘Project Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)’, Indeed, accessed 3 March 2025.