The aim of this question is to find out with which project management methodologies a candidate is familiar. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Knowledge of the most widely used project management methods
• Ability to use terms associated with project management methods
• Understanding of the pros and cons of each method

Here's an example of a strong answer:  'In previous project management roles, I've used Agile, Scrum, Six Sigma, Lean, and Waterfall. Although many of these methods are part of the Agile practice, each has its distinct uses for project management. I've worked with each of these methodologies, combining them when necessary to ensure a project is completed in the most efficient way.'

The aim of this question is to determine if the candidate is more comfortable with a linear or more adaptable project management process. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Explanation or understanding of each method
• Description of using a linear process that moves from one task to another
• Focus on cross-functional teams

Here's an example of a strong answer: 'I prefer using the Agile method because it fits the incremental approach of technological projects but also allows for adaptation as the project progresses. Agile incorporates distinct sub-methods, like Scrum, which I enjoy using for smaller projects. Although Waterfall can be effective in some industries, the dynamic tasks involved in IT projects make Agile a more useful methodology.'

The aim of this question is to determine how a candidate would evaluate a potential project. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Strong analysis capabilities
• Experience creating a feasibility report for an IT project
• Presentation abilities

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'Feasibility studies are important to determine if a project is worth completing. In my previous role, I conducted feasibility studies for projects to determine if they would increase revenue or cause a challenge for company resources. Feasibility studies also help me determine if more research is needed to determine the potential success of a project.'

The aim of this question is to determine a candidate's interpersonal skills and management style. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Ability to assess the specific skills of each team member
• Confidence in delegating tasks
• Good communication skills

Here's an example of a strong answer: 'Once I know a project's goals and deadlines, I list each aspect of the job to determine the team members who should be allocated to each task. Next, I'd choose the most qualified people for a project by assessing each team member's individual skills. I'd also analyse the way they interact with other team members to defer any potential conflicts among the group.'

The aim of this question is to identify how the job candidate defines and addresses customer service in the role of IT project manager. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Sees customer service as a priority
• Understands the role of the customer in IT project management
• Able to adapt project tasks or revise project goals and implement new plans

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'If a client suddenly required changes during a project, I would first clarify exactly what the client needed and why. Once I understood the requested changes, I would meet with my team to discuss the new project requirements. I feel it's important to stay flexible to address customer needs while still maintaining our team's focus on the overall project goals.'

The aim of this question is to determine how a candidate would manage internal projects or work for a client that is meant for public purchase. What to look for in a successful answer: 

• Clear ideas on how to complete a project for public consumption
• Plan to monitor project team members
• Sense of importance in adhering to schedules and deadlines

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'I would plan for a new product release by first building a schedule and setting deadlines for the project. I would also set up regular inspections with my team to determine if their work is consistent and on schedule to release the product on time.'

The aim of this question is to learn more about a candidate's background and special areas of expertise through certification and education. What to look for in a successful answer: 

• IT qualifications
• Background in computer science or a related field
• Additional project management certifications 

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'I earned my bachelor's degree in computer science from XYZ  University and served in an internship with Worldwide IT during my senior year. After graduating, I worked as an IT associate for Worldwide IT, gaining my Agile and Six Sigma certifications while completing internal IT tasks. After completing my Master's in Business Administration from MNO College, I earned a Scrum Master certification."

The aim of this question is to understand the candidate's ability to communicate with various areas within an organisation. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Strong communication abilities
• Values teamwork
• Understands interconnected nature of project management to other departments

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'Communicating with others both within and outside of my team is an important part of a project manager's role. It's important to establish professional relationships built on mutual trust and respect for the other team member's abilities and role within the organisation. When I need to address a project concern with a different department, I try to communicate clearly what I need and how the other department can contribute using their knowledge and skills.'

The aim of this question is to determine what qualities the candidate possesses that would make them an effective project manager. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Confident tone
• Strong leadership skills
• Ability to mentor and grow others

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'My leadership attributes come from my strong communication skills, my ability to solve problems think creatively, and my belief in guiding others to grow through mentoring and delegating tasks. I like to ask questions and let others speak first before I share my ideas. Gathering input is important before making a decision as a leader. I also like to share my vision for the project and help others find their own ideas that move our vision forward.'

The aim of this question is to identify how the candidate would interact with team members once in the role of IT project manager. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Ability to listen to and empathise with others
• Concern for the needs of others
• Team focus

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'I believe communication and collaboration are both tools for effective teamwork. I would encourage my team members to share productive feedback by using appropriate company channels and meeting times. I would also empower team members to feel comfortable and open to discussing their ideas through team-building activities that humanise the workplace and foster positive relationships between team members.'

The aim of this question is to determine the financial experience a candidate brings to their prospective role as a project manager. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Financial responsibility
• Ability to estimate project budgets
• Expertise in budget management

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'In previous project management roles, I've created budget estimates for both clients and internal team members. I've also had experience planning and tracking expenses for project tasks and outcomes. In my first position with Worldwide IT, I worked with the project manager to create estimates for project expenses regarding software development, testing, and installation.'

The aim of this question is to find out how the candidate has corrected projects that haven't fulfiled the requirements for completion. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Able to identify project deficiencies
• Able to communicate with team members regarding unmet expectations
• Understands how to revise and restart projects as necessary

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'When a project exceeds budget limits, fails to meet deadlines, or shows other inconsistencies, it's important to stop and identify how to correct the problem. In past projects, after finding an area of the project that didn't meet expectations, I would gather my team to discuss solutions to the problem. Working together, we would revise our project guidelines and reassess often before project completion.'

The aim of this question is to determine if the candidate is familiar with using a decision support system. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Knowledge of how to apply a DSS 
• Experience using structured or unstructured decision support systems
• Ability to integrate a DSS into current processes

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'In my previous position, I used DSS software as part of the collaborative process for each project. Using a DSS provides structured support for teams as they work to complete a project, and I've successfully used it to support IT project development.'

The aim of this question is to determine what areas the candidate expects to grow within their position. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Honest assessment of role and abilities
• Willingness to admit difficult aspects of this position
• Ability to address areas that may cause conflict

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'I believe the most challenging part of this position is balancing a client's expectations with the actual work of the project. Even for internal work, executive leadership wants to see projects completed in a timely manner while adhering to a budget and accounting for any mistakes or miscalculations. Aside from the technical aspects of this position, managing teams can also pose a challenge due to managing people with varying personalities and backgrounds.'

The aim of this question is to identify how the candidate would make processes more efficient when leading as an IT project manager. What to look for in a successful answer:

• Shows understanding of Lean methodology
• Values efficiency and waste reduction
• Able to identify areas for optimisation

Here is an example of a strong answer: 'Lean management techniques value waste reduction to maximise productivity and successful project outcomes. I would incorporate various parts of Lean management to use our resources more effectively, such as optimising tasks and using fewer resources while completing a project.'