What are the best ways to showcase your problem-solving skills in a volunteering interview?

Identifying what exactly the problem is is a great way to show that you are good at solving problems. Big tip: try to anticipate the problem of the question, this will demonstrate not only good conflict resolution skills but also quick thinking! Identificar qual exatamente é o problema é uma ótima forma de mostrar que você é bom em resolver problemas. Dica maior: tente antecipar qual o problema da pergunta, isso demonstrará não só boas habilidades de resolução de conflitos como também agilidade de pensamento!

Showcasing problem-solving skills during a volunteering interview is essential to demonstrate your ability to address challenges and contribute effectively. Here are some effective ways to highlight your problem-solving skills: 1. Narrate Relevant Stories 2. Highlight Achievements 3. Structured Approach 4. Adaptability and Creativity 5. Collaborative Problem-Solving 6. Communication Skills 7. Learning from Mistakes 8. Stay Positive and Confident 9. Ask Questions 10. Follow-up

Within computer science there is a method of problem solving called DIVIDE AND YOU WILL WIN. Obviously, when faced with a problem of complexity X, it is better to approach it from a holistic perspective, contemplating the inter-dependencies between each division but obviously more at the micro level. By solving a complex problem from simpler sub-problems we simplify the macro problem and approach it from a more unitary perspective, being able to establish the relevant interrelationships between these sub-units and generate the global solution. We optimize time, effort and resources. But not a panacea. Other soft skills come into play (intuition, intelligence, experience). In the end, ¿methodological or raw form approach?

When choosing a solution from a pool of possible solutions, what we have to consider is that no solution (in general) is 100% effective or perfect. In this choice there are aspects that we must consider: 1. If it minimizes the level of criticality of the problem. 2. How many resources it is going to consume (time, material and human resources). 3. For social environments, the most appropriate solution is the most cost-effective. 4. It is important to measure the IMPACT both direct and tangential or indirect. 5. Pros and cons. 6. Foresee contingency plans in case the solution adopted is not the correct one. 7. Is it reversible by minimizing the damage produced? 8. Consider at the strategic level the influence on CHANGE MANAGEMENT.

The implementation and monitoring of a project, regardless of its nature (social (volun), business) is a critical aspect. Implementation implicitly implies a margin of error to which we can accommodate both (human, environmental, economic impact). The first is particularly sensitive (consequences). We must aim to minimize this error as much as possible (NGOs do not usually have too many resources (human, material, economic)). Performance review through KPIs helps us to evaluate this implementation and make the necessary adjustments. It is therefore important to have management skills for this type of actions and to show them in the interview.

This can't be emphasized more! However, don't wait for the interview to use the STAR method — use it in your CV/resume, your cover letter, and even your portfolio. This way you can positively influence your interviewer in your favor even before the interview begins.

Having previous and diverse volunteer experience (groups and environment) is an important add-on when facing a volunteer interview. it is important to observe how the different components of the resume align with the volunteer experience.The "LEARNING BY DOING" methodology. In fact there is a Chinese proverb attributed to Confucius: "I hear and forget, I see and remember, I do and learn". The most efficient way to face new challenges is precisely to have practiced enough in solving problems related to the social environment. As a result of this practice, frustrations and lessons are learned that will help us in the future to apply activities that may require advanced skills or a greater knowledge of the social context.

Describe specific volunteer experiences where you tackled challenges, emphasizing collaborative problem-solving and quantifiable outcomes. Highlight adaptability, lessons learned, and effective communication. Relate these experiences to the organization's potential challenges, showcasing initiative and a growth mindset. Ask insightful questions about the role to demonstrate proactive problem-solving readiness.

One thing I've found helpful is illustrating instances of working collaboratively with team members to solve problems. Additionally, highlighting how the ideas I contributed worked towards achieving a common goal is also helpful.