Describe a time when you had to make quick decisions and think on your feet during a training session or workshop.

Sample answer to the question

During a training session I conducted for new nurses, there was an unexpected power outage that resulted in the loss of all audiovisual equipment. In order to maintain the flow of the session, I quickly adapted and engaged the participants in a group discussion. We utilized whiteboards and flipcharts to brainstorm ideas and problem-solve. This allowed the participants to actively participate and share their own experiences. Despite the sudden change in plans, the session was still successful in meeting the learning objectives.

A more solid answer

During a training session for new nurses, a sudden fire alarm disrupted the session and forced us to evacuate the building. As the designated leader, I swiftly guided the participants to the designated assembly point, ensuring everyone's safety. While waiting for clearance to re-enter the building, I facilitated a discussion to keep the participants engaged and maintain the learning momentum. We utilized the time to review key concepts and answer questions. Once we were allowed back inside, I efficiently adapted the remaining content and delivered it within the shortened timeframe. Despite the unexpected challenges, the session was successful, and the participants expressed gratitude for the smooth handling of the situation.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more detailed and comprehensive description of a situation where the candidate had to make quick decisions and think on their feet. It demonstrates the candidate's strong leadership skills, ability to adapt to unexpected challenges, and effective communication with the participants. However, it can still be improved by including more specific examples of how the candidate assessed the learning needs and utilized teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles.

An exceptional answer

During a workshop on medication administration, one of the participants suddenly started experiencing a severe allergic reaction. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I immediately called for medical assistance and provided first aid to the individual. While ensuring the participant's safety, I calmly addressed the concerns of the other attendees and reassured them that help was on the way. Once medical professionals arrived and took over, I seamlessly transitioned back to the workshop by facilitating a discussion on medication allergies and emergency response protocols. This allowed the participants to apply their knowledge in a real-life scenario and learn from the experience. Despite the unexpected medical emergency, the workshop continued successfully and received positive feedback from the participants.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in demonstrating the candidate's ability to make quick decisions and think on their feet in a training session or workshop. It highlights the candidate's strong clinical skills, ability to remain calm under pressure, and effective handling of both the medical emergency and the continuation of the workshop. The candidate's ability to seamlessly transition back to the original topic and facilitate a meaningful discussion shows their strong teaching and mentoring skills. However, it can still be improved by providing more specific details on how the candidate assessed the learning needs and adapted their teaching methods.

How to prepare for this question

Review your past experiences in training sessions or workshops and identify specific situations where you had to make quick decisions and think on your feet.
Consider examples where you demonstrated strong teaching and mentoring skills, assessed learning needs, and utilized different teaching methods.
Practice describing these situations in a concise and engaging manner, focusing on the actions you took and the outcomes achieved.
Reflect on how you effectively communicated with participants and managed unexpected challenges.
Demonstrate your ability to work independently and as part of a team by highlighting instances where you took initiative while also collaborating with others.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong teaching and mentoring skills
Ability to assess learning needs
Excellent verbal and written communication
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team