What was your best learning experience interview answer

1. 17.

   Tell me about a time when you had to learn something new within a short deadline.

   The interviewer wants assurance that you can learn new skills under pressure. The goal of your response is to show the hiring authority that you are willing to put in the effort required to learn new skills, even when it may seem difficult. This question also presents an excellent opportunity to express that you accept workplace changes with poise.

   Think about a time you learned a new task or responsibility with little advanced notice. Perhaps your company implemented new software on which you had to give yourself a crash course. Maybe you needed to learn and implement a new procedure without notice. Perhaps your employer asked you to attend a workshop at the last minute, or you had to study for a policy exam. These make great real-life examples of times you had to learn something new within a short deadline. Discuss your diligence and actions to learn the content, task, or responsibility within a short timeline.

   Behavioral-based interview questions that begin with 'Tell me about a time...' are best answered using the STAR method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Organizing your response using this framework will ensure that you provide the interviewer with the right amount of information and detail to form a compelling answer.

   Avoid giving a general answer regarding your ability to learn new skills quickly. Stay away from vague statements like, 'This happens to me every day! I am often learning new tasks on the job, and I am always up for a new challenge.'

   

   Christine's Answer

   "(Situation) In my most recent role, I was unfamiliar with the hospital record-keeping system at first. (Task) After a few days of on-the-job training, I was able to maintain the hospital record-keeping system, but I still wasn't happy with my fluency. (Action) I found tutorials online and spent evenings training myself to improve. (Result) I became fluent in the program in no time flat. It was nice to dive in, learn the system well, and have that sense of accomplishment early on in my role."

   

   Rachelle's Admin Example Answer

   "(Situation) When I first began my administration career, I started as a temporary employee with a temp agency. (Task) Because I was placed in a variety of roles that changed weekly and sometimes even daily, I often jumped into positions where there was a lot to learn in a short time. Deadlines were often extremely tight, and technology changed frequently. (Action) I utilized and maximized my resources to the fullest, often learning technical tasks through YouTube tutorials the night before. (Result) I learned plenty of programs and software, and best of all, had fun doing it!"

   

   Rachelle's Marketing Example Answer

   "(Situation) Our agency implemented a new design program recently. (Task) I needed to know the ins and outs of this design program to work effectively on my largest client project. (Action) I hunkered down, put a sign on my cubicle that said, 'Do not feed the animals,' and got to work researching and learning. (Result) Everyone understood that I needed some time, and they reserved calling my name for urgent requests only. I was able to learn the program in just one day, an accomplishment that I am quite proud of."

   

   Rachelle's Retail Example Answer

   "(Situation) Last year, I earned a promotion to assistant manager with two weeks' notice. (Task) While earning a promotion was super exciting, the promotion was in an entirely different department. From the employees to the merchandise, everything was all brand new to me. (Action) I took the bull by the horns and got to work, learning everything I could about the collections, what sold well, and team dynamics. I wanted to be as efficient as possible right out the gate. I also recognized that I should seek the guidance of the current staff so they knew I valued their knowledge. (Result) Leading with an eager mind and humble heart, I got down to business and up to speed within a week."

   

   Rachelle's Teacher Example Answer

   "(Situation) One instance that stands out is my work with a new student I had this year. This student has special needs, and his parents asked that he attend my Spanish class. (Task) As an experienced teacher, I often have moments of learning on the fly and know that I need to be flexible with all learning levels. (Action) I needed to learn overnight how to best include this student in my classroom without hindering his or the other students' learning. I wanted him to be successful. I read his IEP cover to cover and spoke with his aide and his parents to better understand his needs. (Result) The next day, this student stayed for Spanish and had a huge grin on his face throughout the lesson. It was so rewarding to see how he connected well with the curriculum and the other students."

   

   Rachelle's Sales Example Answer

   "(Situation) When I started my first car sales position in 2010, I took a salary cut for a highly commissioned opportunity. (Task) I had to hit the ground running to start earning commissions ASAP. I also had to learn about the car industry as quickly as possible so that I could start making appointments and sales. (Action) I spent the first week of this new job shadowing everyone I could, reading industry-related publications, and taking myself through the customer journey and sales cycle. I wanted to understand the entire experience from the customer's perspective. (Result) By the following week, I felt ready and was making appointments and running demos."

   

   Rachelle's Manager Example Answer

   "(Situation) Our company recently implemented a new SAP system. (Task) Not only was I tasked with learning the system, but I also needed to train my team of five on the use of the system. (Action) I had two weeks to learn and train, so I took a lot of the modules home, watched a plethora of tutorials online, and even utilized some how-to videos on YouTube. (Result) In the end, I met the goal and was proud of myself for learning a complicated concept under such a tight deadline."

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Working as head bartender at TGI Fridays, part of my role was to ensure my team, and I was always up to date with new cocktails/ promotions. As the Christmas season was rapidly approaching, there was several new products and promotions to learn. I took home the latest product information and spent some time learning them and coming up with fun games/ rhymes to help my team learn them. In result, this created a fun, lively atmosphere on the bar and the Bartenders enthusiastically promoting the new products."

   

   Alexandra's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great answer! Again, you follow the STAR method here, which is very beneficial in a behavioral interview. I love your example - it not only shows how you learned something quickly, but also goes above and beyond to show how you also helped others learn that.

   How would you rate Alexandra's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Recently, I went on exchange and decided to undertake an intro physics unit to improve my problem-solving skills. However, I underestimated the amount of prior knowledge expected, so I was really struggling to keep up with the content in class. We had a test coming up in a couple of weeks, so I couldn't afford to keep falling behind. I decided to rent out a high school physics textbook to go over the class's expected knowledge. I allocated time to go over all the necessary chapters about rotational kinematics and thermodynamics to learn the foundations before each class. I allocated time to go over these chapters again after class to make sure I could understand everything. As a result, I was now up to date with the content, and I managed to score an A+ on the test despite my initial struggles."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow - this is an incredible achievement. You should be very proud of your success. This answer puts a nice spotlight on your diligence and smarts!

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Every training I've ever had in the medical sales industry has been like drinking water from a fire hydrant. I value education because I taught high school for many years before switching to corporate sales, and I know how to learn. When I only have a short amount of time to learn something new, I find that YouTube is an excellent resource."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   That first sentence made me laugh out loud! Hilarious but so accurate. I like that you brought in your high school teaching experience (which I hear from my teacher friends is also like drinking water from a fire hydrant) :) I noticed you have mentioned YouTube a few times now. Try branching out to other resources or, as mentioned earlier, be specific on what channels you subscribe to. YouTube isn't always seen as a serious resource since you can learn to do brain surgery but also watch cat videos.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I first began my Analyst career, I started as a temp with an agency. I was placed in roles that changed weekly and sometimes even daily. I had to learn in a short time and deadlines were often due on short notice. I utilized and maximized my resources to the fullest. I had the opportunity to learn more about the industry and felt successful doing it."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good for you! Years ago, I worked as a temp recruiter and built the utmost respect for those who would adjust well to changing jobs monthly/weekly/daily. This temp work is a great example of adaptability.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I was tasked to take lead in reviewing and negotiating a complex International Software Agreement worth 80 million on behalf of the company. I quickly had to learn more about the technical operations of the software and conduct in-depth research on Software Agreements and give my comments on the draft Agreement. I quickly learned this and had a successful negotiation. In regards to the company's material contracts, this contract was said to have a zero exposure when due diligence was conducted."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Software is a challenging topic, and it sounds like you nailed it! Good response.

   "I was tasked to take the lead in reviewing and negotiating a complex International Software Agreement worth 80 million on behalf of the company. I quickly learned about the technical operations of the software and conduct in-depth research on Software Agreements so that I could give my comments on the draft agreement. I quickly learned and was able to lead a successful negotiation."

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my current role, my manager gave me a project that required me to use the software I was unfamiliar with, I went to the internet and I found tutorials about the software, training myself. I have become very good with the software, confident, and manage to execute my task on time. I was proud of myself for that and my manager was very impressed with the results."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Excellent response! You clearly illustrate your orientation to detail and quick learning capabilities. This specific example shows the interviewer exactly how you approach needing to learn a new skill quickly.

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "For a software development project that I undertook beyond my responsibilities at my company, I realized that using a cloud database was not good enough in and of itself, as it would not allow me to effectively preserve the state of the application after a user stops using the application and logs out, and return that state once the user logs back in. Therefore, I figured that I would also incorporate a local database solution so that the state would be instantly available without having to wait for a response from the cloud, thereby speeding up the application launch and improving user experience. I had only a couple of days to learn this local database solution. In order to do this, I channeled most of my experience with cloud database management, which translated well, and closed the gap by learning about the differences between the two solutions, which turned out to be quite a few. This method allowed me to learn the technology within the allotted time and saved me a lot of headache versus what would have happened if I had sat down and tried to learn it from scratch."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow, this sounds like a heavy undertaking! To give even more perspective, I recommend adding details regarding (approx) how long this would have taken an average individual under a more relaxed deadline.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I started in pharmaceuticals, I was an associate rep. I worked with the territory reps to ensure all their accounts were taken care of. Since I was the #1 associate in my training class, I was given the task of taking over a territory reps' accounts while he went home to visit his family in Indonesia. I had a week to not only learn his entire book of business, but introduce myself to them, and learn how they did business as they were all foreign-based pharmacies that spoke very little English. I was expected to maintain his business and not lose any accounts while he was gone for four weeks. However, I exceeded expectations and grew some of the accounts. I was promoted shortly after doing this to my own territory."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Bravo! It seems that everything you put your mind to turns to gold "” very strong example.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "As the Department Coordinator for the School of Education, the Dean wanted me to take on additional responsibility. To implement, issue, and maintain a new course evaluation system. I was the lead on the project. I had to work with Department Chairs to code all course id numbers into the system, create the survey, and maintain all users in the new course evaluation system. I had to learn a brand new system within three months and train all new users. The implementation was successful, and we were able to issue our first course evaluations with no errors."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow! This sounds like a huge project, and it sounds like you had to learn a lot very quickly! This is a great example to provide for a question like this. The interviewer will be impressed by your ability to learn quickly and to take charge.

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "___ college has recently just moved their application process to another system. This is quite a complex system that needs 2 years to build. I was actually the first "superuser" for the system. I have been trained how to use the system in 2 weeks' time and then provide training for other team members. It was short notice at that time but we did not have many options since semester 1 is approaching and the new system has been delayed to launch more than 6 months. I grabbed all the opportunities and times I got within 2 weeks to ask questions, test the system, writing down testing scenarios and test the system functions, provide feedback, and document the process. I was able to train the rest of the team to go through the process and at this stage, we are confident using the system as a whole team."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Excellent response. You clearly demonstrate how you successfully learned a new system in a short period of time and then trained the rest of your team. This shows that you are a quick learner, smart, and a leader who can teach others. Nice!

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In one of my previous roles, I asked to join a team that builds a mobile card game using a programming language Java that I wasn't familiar with. After 2 weeks, I was able to implement my first task very easily because I did deep learning for multiple Java tutorials and I tried different websites that helped me to solve some tasks that mock real situations using this programming language, and that helped me to understand this language in a better way."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow, very impressive. This is a terrific example, but I'd add some context. Were they short on Java resources? Were you the only person who could learn Java?

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I joined my first job with ____, I had been given the task of hosting a yoga class for the next quarter. Due to my background, I had little to no knowledge of Yoga. I decided to take the challenge head-on and research through youtube and online resources. I hosted the class and had the second-highest attendance of the quarter."

   

   Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great answer! You follow the STAR method, and your example demonstrates the ability to learn new skills in a short amount of time, and accept new challenges in the workplace. Good for you! However, it is not clear from your response why you had little to no knowledge of yoga due to your background. Consider revisiting that part of your response to provide the interviewer with more information.

   How would you rate Chad's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my current role, I've had to quickly adapt to recruiting and admissions structures, software, and timelines. The information provided by that team has been great, but I needed more so I could train my faculty in participating in both National Portfolio Days and reviews. Researching best practices, I was able to quickly and thoroughly understand the rhythm of the job, and provide guidance to my faculty to bring both teams together."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is a rich example to draw from and you've made a good start. If you revised by showing (rather than telling) what and how you learned, that would help the interviewer see your work in action and apply it to the needs of the job. Try using the STAR format which stands for situation, task, action, and result. The STAR format is a useful guideline for structuring narratives. If you'd like to learn more, we have a guide here: https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/Master Behavioral-Based Interviews Using The Star Method/

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "A few years ago, I worked in the _________. Everything was all brand new to me. I was unfamiliar with their internal banking system at first. After a few days on the job training, I was able to maintain the banking system, but I still wasn't happy with my fluency. So, I got to business and learned everything I could about the system processes and team dynamics. I wanted to be as efficient as possible and I also recognized that I should seek the guidance of the current staff, so they knew I valued their knowledge. Leading with an eager mind and humble heart, I got down to business and up to speed within a week."

   

   Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great example! You make good use of the STAR framework to organize your response, which is highly beneficial when answering behavioral questions. To further strengthen your response, I recommend expanding on the methods you used to learn about the system processes and team dynamics. What did you do in addition to seeking the guidance of the current staff?

   How would you rate Chad's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I was hired as a server at ________ in college, the first thing I was assigned to do was study restaurant specific material on the menu and service standards, then pass a test on those subjects. I set a goal to study for 30 minutes each night and was able to pass my test within a week of getting started."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   You have provided a strong example of a time when you had to quickly learn something new. Great job!

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I transition from my role as RN to the position of an NP, the computer documentation system was a bit different from what I was used to and I needed to learn the system in a short period of time. I made friends with one of the IT personnel who came to help me during my lunch break. With that help, I was able to learn the system faster than expected."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great example! This clearly illustrates how you used creativity and maximized your resources (example: befriending the IT personnel) in order to achieve your desired outcome.

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I was studying, I was working in a marketing company as a distribution team member. At that time they had, vacancies arise for assisting accounting for the distribution team. So I went to the owner of the company and asked him to give me a chance for that position, he agreed and asked me to learn new software within a half-hour, I did agree as I needed experience in my field. Finally, I made it. I learn the software and I got my first permanent job."

   

   Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Your answer demonstrates ambition and an ability to learn new skills under pressure. Good for you! Are you able to share any specific tools or techniques you utilized to learn the new software in such a short period of time?

   How would you rate Chad's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   ""(Situation) In one research project, I use survey data from training providers to create a measure of provider quality. Until recently, I subjectively selected the most important variables among the large set of available information to create a quality index. Knowing that there exist machine learning methods for variable selection in the field, I was not satisfied by my subjective approach. (Task) Thus, I wanted to improve the measurement of provider quality. I faced a deadline for submission of the research paper for a conference which was two weeks later and this created some time pressure. (Action) In order to learn about machine learning algorithms and their application, I decided to book an online course provided by Stanford University in which I could work through the material at high speed and train myself to a deeper level of knowledge. After working through 20 hours of material, videos, and coding exercises that were automatically reviewed and graded, I knew how I could improve my analysis. (Result) The application of an algorithm for dimensionality reduction improved the analysis a lot and the paper was accepted for presentation at the conference. My approach of learning and applying a state-of-the-art method will help to sell the paper in a future publication process and increases my skill set which is beneficial in all of my future projects.""

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Excellent! This answer definitely shows how you learned something new within a short deadline. It also shows that you were able to identify a weakness in your research process, uncover a quick and thorough way to learn more about how to fix this issue, and follow through by submitting a paper with improved analysis. The interviewer will undoubtedly be impressed. Great job!

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "For my recent job at ______, since it is a rotational program, the turnover time is quite short. We have one week to learn all the responsibilities of the previous employee. I began by scheduling meetings, asking for work instructions or any documents out there, and discussing plans with my new supervisor. I stayed on late and started early to ensure it would be a smooth transition. It resulted in me understanding my new responsibilities and being prepared to complete the job solo."

   

   Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Excellent! Your answer definitely demonstrates how you had to learn something new within a short deadline. It also shows that you take initiative, and have a strong work ethic. To further strengthen your response, consider adding additional details to ensure the interviewer has the full scope. For example, you could discuss the number of positions that you ultimately rotated through and had to learn.

   How would you rate Chad's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "20 minutes before opening a disaster recovery site I was put in charge of crowd control. Thousands of people were lined up, and there was a 1/4 mile distance to get to the offices. I assigned a team to work the parking traffic flow and another team to bus the seniors and disabled clients to the site. We were able to move 15,000 - 30,000 people daily with no safety incidents or traffic accidents."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is a really strong example of a time when you had to think quickly on your feet. And ultimately you were successful in handling this large and potentially very stressful job. Great job! Perhaps you can talk a bit more about how you decided what to do. Did you research crowd control on your phone? Did you ask someone more experienced than you in this area for advice? Did you just go with your gut and use your logic?

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I was working as a lead coordinator, one of my colleagues had an emergency in his back home country and he needed to travel in the next two days. I was assigned to his project, which required a specialized test called SPIROMETRY. And I had never done this test before. I had to learn in one day as my colleague will be leaving and also I need to conduct a spirometry test on one patient. My colleague taught me to how to perform this test, I took notes of the procedure and stayed long hours to learn. I searched, how to perform the spirometry on youtube and finally, I was confident enough to perform this test without any supervision."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is an excellent example! (This example would actually also work for question #31.)

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I first joined, the flexible office facility was at nearly 55% occupied and in disarray. My job was mainly leasing and customer-facing role, but I quickly realized I needed to get a marketing and relationship management strategy in place. We assessed the market and competitor pricing and then I quickly learned Adobe Suite to utilize updated photographs., information, flyers, pricing to actively market the space. We ended up increasing occupancy up to nearly 85-90% consistently through my term and many of the leasing strategies have stayed through to today."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow! This is a great stat to include in your answer. Your example clearly shows your ability to quickly learn something new and then use those skills to succeed. Excellent response.

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I returned to school to earn my graduate degree, I was very unfamiliar with some of the computer programs that we had to use for our classes. After a few days, and asking my student colleagues for help while using the programs, I managed to fumble my way through. However, I wasn't happy with my fluency. I devoted weekend time to studying online tutorials and taking classes to get more familiar with the programs. I am happy to report that I am now fluent and I look forward to using the programs now."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This shows your commitment and willingness to go the extra mile when needed. I'm glad that your hard work paid off and that you now feel well versed in this program!

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "At one of our grocery stores, we had made a sizeable investment into adding gas pumps outside. This was a huge project that mainly my boss had handled, but when they were about completed we remembered that you had to have a certified manager to operate gas pumps. I rushed off to a certification course and passed the test to become certified and started learning how to manage this new adventure. The result was we were able to operate and did it successfully regardless of the short learning curve."

   

   Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Your answer demonstrates a can-do attitude and an ability to absorb information and learn new skills under pressure. Good for you! If possible, discuss any specific strategies or techniques you utilized to learn the course material in a short timeframe and successfully pass the certification course.

   How would you rate Chad's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I had to meet deadline after deadline on a daily basis in my last job. I had to resolve issues generated in systems during workflow with appropriate solutions, in one moment there is one or no problem, and within a few minutes the system is brimming with problems. My Area manager and superior wanted to resolve these problems ASAP for on-time shipment. But I love this busy area, such pressure and deadlines motivated me to learn and work faster, to not waste time on any unnecessary tasks and movement. I think that I eventually became very efficient in my work and hope I will benefit from it in the new job as well."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great response! It sounds like you work very well under pressure, which is such an important skill set to have.

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I had to learn how to manage our inventory with a short deadline. I had to learn how to order supplies and also how to use the software."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great example. I'd recommend relying on the STAR method to answer this question. Structure your answer so you're discussing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result. I've given you an approach to answering below, and if you'd like to learn more, we have a guide here: https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/Master Behavioral-Based Interviews Using The Star Method/

   "Recently, I had to learn how to manage a new inventory system in a matter of weeks. It was critical that I learn it quickly because (here, talk about why you had to become proficient. What are the consequences if you didn't understand the system by the deadline?). I approached the task by (here, talk about the steps you took to learn the system. Did you read up on it? Ask for a tutorial? Learn by doing?). I eventually learned (here, again talk about specifics) and was fully proficient by the deadline."

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "While implementing the EGRC Archer, I had no knowledge about the system and the framework, I had to learn while running the project, then guide the team to implement the system, I divided my time between understanding the requirements and mapping them to the needed technical details by going through all the educational materials, as result, we were to make it as a successful story and deliver the system within the given deadline."

   

   Marcie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good example! It sounds like you had to teach yourself the system and framework while simultaneously running the project, which is impressive. Just make sure to include enough details about the project that the interviewer can understand the end result and how much you had to learn.

   How would you rate Marcie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my most recent role, I was unfamiliar with their record-keeping system at first. After a few days of on the job training, I was able to maintain the record-keeping system, but I still wasn't happy with my fluency. I found tutorials online and spent evenings training myself to a deeper level of knowledge. I became fluent in the program in no time flat. It was nice to dive in, learn the system well, and have that sense of accomplishment early on in my role where I was able to show current employees time saving techniques."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is a solid example, but since the question itself mentions a short deadline, you may wish to share a few more details about the timeline involved and why it was so important for you to learn this information on an abbreviated timeline.

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When I first got started at my current position, I knew very little about the world of consulting in long-term care facilities. I had to focus on what my manager was doing in order for me to pick up on what I needed to do once I am on my own. I asked many questions to my colleagues and thankfully they were very happy to help. But within a few weeks time, I was comfortable performing my tasks independently, and I was recognized for being a quick learner as I later learned that I received the shortest amount of training time among my peers."

   

   Amanda's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This question is the interviewer's way of gaining insight into your method for learning something new because chances are you won't know everything that your new role will require. They want to understand how you learn something new so they can determine how well you would fit with their organization. You can make your answer stronger by talking about the other strategies you used to learn quickly. Did you take notes about processes or regulations? Did you job shadow for a set period of time? Did you memorize any specific information or data?

   How would you rate Amanda's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Our company recently implemented a new open-source DMaap (Data Movement as a platform) system. Not only was I tasked with learning the system, but I also needed to train my team of five on how to use the system. I had two weeks to work with the DMaap team to onboard our application and start using it for reporting. In the end, I met the goal and was proud of myself for learning a complicated concept under such a tight deadline."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good start to your response! The 'Action' piece seems to be missing, so I encourage you to give detail on what you did to meet your goal.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my most recent role, I was unfamiliar with another group's data set. After a few days of an intense self-learn, I was able to analyze the data, but I still wasn't happy with my output. I found tutorials online and spent some time training myself to a deeper level of knowledge. It was nice to dive in, and have that sense of accomplishment. Now I train other co-workers with that information."

   

   Kevin's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Your answer shows an excellent ability to self-learn and seek out the answers you need in order to be successful. I've rephrased the answer to show more of a deliberated approach, adding to why it was important to accomplish.

   "In my most recent role, I was introduced to another group’s data set that I had no training in. I spent a few days analyze the data, but realized it wasn’t enough, so I went deeper and found tutorials online to train myself. Since then I’ve trained other coworkers what I’ve learned which has improved our interdepartmental relations and enhanced our collaborative output."

   How would you rate Kevin's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "At my last job, we received a new inventory management system called OrderInsite. It was a step beyond our previous inventory management system, and the full-time technician was struggling to keep up with the inventory requests. I contacted the corporate office and got login codes for the system and proceeded to learn the new system to assist the technician with inventory drug management where we would ship drugs to other pharmacies. I also took it upon myself to work with the technicians to do our cycle fill count sheets to make sure our physical onhands were up to date. By learning the new system, I was able to get our inventory management up to date by assisting the full-time technician. I also continued to assist on OrderInsite at another location."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This example clearly highlights your willingness to learn new systems. Very good!

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I have had many instances where things must be learned in a short notice. One such instance was when the computer program for scanning meals at the facility was put online; we had to learn the procedure with just minimal training."

   

   Mary's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is a great, specific answer! Make sure to include the result or outcome of having to learn something in such a short amount of time.

   "I have had many instances where things must be learned on short notice. One such instance was when the computer program for scanning meals at the facility was on put online, we had to learn the procedure with very minimal training. I was able to learn the process quickly within a [set period of time] while making little to no errors."

   How would you rate Mary's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In 2008 was my first encounter with the case management area, my experience was in the hospital. It was new for me, and I have to learn it along with the demonstration that I can do it. In the six months of the inception, not only demonstrate that I can do it, the company grow and expand the department, now it is a prominent local company in San Diego."

   

   Alexandra's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good answer! I would suggest expanding your answer to include information about what you did to ensure you learned the information accurately and quickly, and how this led to the growth of the company/department.

   How would you rate Alexandra's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my last position in an international organization, I was offered a position in a task force team that was in charge of a project which required a lot of data collection and analysis, as well as the presentation. As the task force was already late, and I had to hit the ground running. Within a week, I learned how to utilize the basic features of new software for the presentation of graphics, and within a month, I had built a very positive relation with the software consultant seconded to our organization. He was very proud of the way I showcased the software, and more happy to help me with the most technical features. Overall, it was good and successful teamwork."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This answer shows the interviewer that you are highly diligent and able to pick up on new systems quickly. Bravo!

   "In my last position in an international organization, I was offered a role in a task force team in charge of a project which required a lot of data collection and analysis, as well as the presentation. The task force was running behind, so I had to hit the ground running. Within a week, I learned how to utilize the basic features of new software for the presentation of graphics. Within a month, I had built a very positive relationship with the software consultant seconded to our organization. He was very proud of the way I showcased the software and happy to help me with the most technical features. Overall, it was a successful teamwork experience."

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Late the night before my clinical day, my professor emailed the students and told us that we would be removing IVs from patients the following day. We did not practice this in the lab, so I woke up extra early and watched tutorials online and learned the proper, safe technique. I went into my clinical day with confidence and performed well that day."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Awesome! You are so diligent and really seem to take control of your learning.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In my previous role as an Accountant, I was unfamiliar with SunSystems, which is an accounting software the company used. After a few days of on the job training, I was able to navigate my way around it and perform most of my tasks, but I still wasn't happy with my fluency. I found tutorials online and spent evenings training myself to a deeper level of knowledge. It was nice to dive in, learn the system well, and have that sense of accomplishment early on in my role."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Fantastic! Your answer shows strong initiative and a desire to learn continually.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Every day as a consultant! Your clients expect you to be up to speed in no time."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This is very true! In addition to this, be sure to include a specific example as required by behavioral style interview questions. I have provided a starter for you, below.

   "I learn new tasks in a short deadline nearly every day as a consultant! My clients expect me to be up to speed in no time. For instance, just last week...."

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I was asked to be the head nurse at my job with a few days' notice. I did not have any prior training to be a head nurse; however, management would be there for me to ask questions. It was my responsibility to keep the doctor on time, make sure all charts were complete, bloodwork was sent out, etc. I ended up asking questions to make sure everything was complete that needed to be done and did the best that I could with keeping the doctor on time."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   When faced with a challenge, you forged ahead and did your best. This is an excellent example of jumping in and learning something new, even if it was outside of your comfort zone.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I had to learn a new electronic substance abuse assessment within one week. It was not user-friendly so during my free time I would practice and research the assessment. While it was a lot to learn in a short time it was nice to become proficient early on as I used this assessment a lot."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   You're getting there, for sure! The more detail you can provide, the less your interviewer will need to ask follow up questions to gain a full scope of understanding. I have provided a starter for you, below.

   "(Situation) While working for Company ABC...(what was the situation surrounding the introduction of this new assessment?)...(Task) I was asked to learn a new electronic substance abuse assessment in just one week due to (what was the reasoning for the short time frame?). (Action) The new assessment was not user-friendly, so during my free time, I would practice and research the assessment. In total, I spent around # hours, familiarizing myself with the assessment. (Result) While it was a lot to learn in a short time, I was able to reach my employers' one-week goal. It was nice to become proficient early, and I continued to use the assessment regularly."

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "When starting at ______ _____ we were given a 3-day induction. So there was a lot to learn very quickly. I found that I was good at the coaching but was not happy with my slowness in the system. I took some time and wrote out some flow charts which helped me find things more quickly and also in doing so I found that I learned the system more quickly."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Flow charts can certainly be helpful when figuring out a system to maximize efficiency! I recommend more details on Situation, Task, Action, Result to ensure that the interviewer fully understands your story-based example and the context.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I was working on this project for 6 months, and we used the Python framework for test automation. Then our team lead decided to switch to a different framework that is better maintainable and easier to code: Cucumber or Spock. While he was deciding and evaluating all pros and cons of each framework, I started learning both: bought books completed courses for both frameworks. The team lead's choice was Spock. And after he announced it, I was ready for work. I was the first one who started writing code in this new framework and teaching others how to use it."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   This example is fantastic! You show a great ability to look ahead, and take the initiative in your learning. Be sure also to include information on the impact that your effort had on the project. I have provided an example, below.

   "At (Company Name), I was working on a 6-month long project where we used the Python framework for test automation. Mid-project, our team lead decided to switch to a different framework that would be easier to maint and code. The decision was between Cucumber or Spock. While he was determining and evaluating all pros and cons of each framework, I started learning both. I bought books and completed courses for both Cucumber and Spock. The team lead's choice was Spock, and after he announced it, I was ready for work. I was the first one who started writing code in this new framework and began teaching others how to use it. Because of my efforts, we were able to (include a measurable result)."

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "There was an upcoming leads review for a new hire's training assessment. I wasn't familiar yet with the policies and processes since I was still new, but I was the training lead so I had to be prepared. I studied the policies, made some homework for myself, and finally assessed what I learned. I also shadowed a session with the other teams to get more context. In the end, I was able to gain familiarity and was able to answer questions during the review."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   It sounds as though you were highly diligent in this situation! When it comes to your study habits and the homework you made for yourself, were there any other study methods that helped you? Diving deeper into those details will allow the interviewer to understand your approach to learning better. At the beginning of your answer, be sure to give enough detail so that the interviewer can place where you were working at the time of this event.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Situation: Our department bought a new instrument. Task: I needed to learn the ins and outs of the instrument and train a team member in one week. Action: I had one week to learn and train, so I took a lot of the modules home, watched a plethora of tutorials online, and even utilized some how-to videos on YouTube. Results: In the end, I met the goal and also learned about a new instrument and software."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Great example and use of the STAR interview method! To make your response more memorable, you may wish to consider sharing a bit more about the instrument (what type of instrument was this? How was it used to improve outcomes?).

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "In each of my jobs, I had to learn new things in a short time, as everyday something new came up. But in my last job as accounts payable, when I started, even if I had a couple of days training and I was able to post invoices, as it was a new system for me, still I was not that confident and year end was approaching and everyone was very busy. I was watching tutorials on YouTube to get more knowledge and learned to do more things like settlements of the payments and reconciliations, downloads of different accounts, post journals, and I was able to help in the year end for my new team."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good! You're showing that you can learn independently, which is an important skill.

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "We once won a new client and I was assigned to work on the account. The client wanted to start work right away and shared with us different requests for different campaigns. I had to learn everything about the client over the weekend to start the work. I started by studying their guidelines book, then made a presentation summarizing all their products and shared it with my coworkers. This was a great way to get us started on our first campaign."

   

   Stephanie's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Excellent! This shows an ability to problem solve, learn new information quickly, and go the extra mile when needed.

   How would you rate Stephanie's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "A couple of months back, my team decided to add a new feature in our database system to support continuous queries for real time applications. There are several existing stream processing systems that support continuous queries such as Spark, Flink, and Storm. I had to learn these systems by myself and teach two of our junior students how to use them in only two weeks time. I spent a complete week familiarizing myself using these systems and created several use case documents. In the next week, I met with them for a couple of hours each day and explained each system in detail. They were able to learn about the system very quickly and were able to develop a streaming application to highlight the limitations of the existing systems."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Wow! You both learned something new and taught it to others! Good example! I would dwell on the "how." How were you able to learn this well enough to teach others?

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "I recall a time that our institution introduced the "SEATS" system to track student attendance. I was tasked to learn this new system and train our team and academic colleagues. There was only limited time for testing before it went live on the first day of the semester. I utilized the resources available to the fullest that comprehended how this system works and completed the "what you should do" guideline for students, lecturers, and administrators. I was quite happy was able to complete the task within a short deadline with good results."

   

   Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Very good answer! To make your response even stronger, mention any positive feedback you received from students or staff on your "what you should do" guideline.

   How would you rate Rachelle's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   ""¢ S: In my final year at university, I conducted an applied economics dissertation, where the first 10% was group work. We were given data sources and attempted to replicate the results of an existing paper. "¢ T: We needed to learn a completely new software from scratch, STATA. "¢ A: I found a variety of tutorials online and spent evenings training myself to a deeper level of understanding. "¢ R: It was good to learn the system early on in the project. It made the entire process easier."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good example. It's not easy to learn a whole new software while trying to complete a project. This answer shows tenacity as well as independent learning skills.

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

   Anonymous Interview Answer

   "Running VNF testing when I had to sub for an unexpected absence, learning the WF management software and creation process, I owned the process in 3 days and stayed with it till completion, weekly sync up calls with all vendors to develop, confirm and validate an overall workflow system."

   

   Cindy's Feedback for the Answer Above

   Good. Add detail about how you managed to learn the process and own it in three days. What were some of the challenges and how did you overcome them?

   How would you rate Cindy's Feedback?

Next Behavioral Interview Question

31 Behavioral Interview Questions