Assistant project managers will need to work in teams, likely with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. While it is easy for candidates to speak about times when they have led their crews well and delivered results, there will always be times when something falls through the cracks. An applicant’s answer to this question will tell you about their ability to be resilient when things do not go as planned. What to look for in an answer:

• Candidate has a clear example and answers question directly
• Applicant shows strong logic in walking the interviewer through how they solved the problem
• Candidate shows creativity and a willingness to take on responsibilities beyond what was originally designated to them

Many assistant project managers will work directly with analysts and other reporters who may not speak directly to the head project manager. There may be circumstances in which the project lead has a different vision than your candidate, so they will need to know how to navigate these situations effectively. This question will show how the applicant handles conflict and how they may resolve a disagreement. What to look for in an answer:

• Applicant does not show aggression or anger at the thought of being in disagreement
• Candidate is reasonable in working out a solution
• Assistant manager does not accept the project manager’s decision blindly

Your 2025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05assistant project manager will likely be the team’s go-to person for information regarding timelines, deadlines and budgets. They will need to be savvy with technology and be able to manage assignments on tight schedules. You are going to need someone who is able to navigate between several staff members, clients and possibly even tasks at the same time. The answer to this question will allow you to gain a sense of whether the candidate has been successful in using project management software in the past. What to look for in an answer:

• Identifies one or multiple project management software programs
• Explains their level of experience with each application
• Describes what they’ve used the program to achieve

You want to look for candidates who have a proven track record of success in the field so that they can continue to provide value for your company. Applicants who have prepared strong answers about some of their successful assignments will help you gain a better understanding of what is on their resume as well as allow you to see if they will fit well into your project team. What to look for in an answer:

• Candidate recalls specific facts and figures about the project
• Clearly explains their role in the assignment
• Quantifies the magnitude of success in the project

Your 2025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05assistant project manager will be the glue that ties all members of your team together. They will be the one to work with your entry-level employees and relay important data to their superiors. They will also be the one to arrange key internal and external meetings. Thus, how they handle work relationships and deal with team members is critical to the long-term success of your project. What to look for in an answer:

• Recalls a time they worked with a teammate they did not get along with
• Explains how they handled disagreements and ensured the project continued without mishap
• Does not attempt to avoid answering the question

Project management methodologies can significantly influence project output, and assistant project managers should know how to use them even if they do not have experience in being project leads. An employer can use this question to find out the on-the-job training and skills of candidates. An ideal assistant project manager applicant will articulate experience in major project management methodologies, such as Agile, Lean Practices and PMI's PMBOK. A candidate's answer should emphasize:

• Understanding of key project management methodologies
• Project management and communication skills
• Suitable training for the position