Tell me about a project where a key dependency slipped. How did you rework the schedule?

What the interviewer is looking for

• This question tests scheduling & dependencies. Builds realistic timelines, tracks the critical path and cross-team dependencies, and replans quickly when something slips.
• Strong answers: Assesses impact on the critical path, explores options like resequencing or adding resources, communicates early, and resets the plan.
• Likely follow-up: How did you prevent that from happening again?

Another way it may be asked: Think of a time another team or supplier was late and it affected your project. What did you do?

A structure to follow: Answer, explain, example, limits

1. Step 1

   Answer

   Give your direct answer in the first sentence so the interviewer knows where you are going.

2. Step 2

   Explain

   Say how it works or why you would do it that way, in plain words before jargon.

3. Step 3

   Example

   Anchor it in something you have actually done or seen, with the detail that shows hands-on experience.

4. Step 4

   Limits

   Say when your approach would not be the right one. It shows judgement.

This is guidance on shape, not a script. Use your own real experience and facts; never invent details to fill a gap. See the STAR guide and answer frameworks.

Common slips

• Reciting a definition without showing you have applied it.
• Using terms you cannot explain if asked a level deeper.
• Claiming experience beyond what you can discuss in detail.

How to practise it

Say the answer in 90 seconds, then answer the follow-up as if it were a new question.

Related questions

• How would you keep track of tasks and deadlines across a team of six people?
• If you were handed a new project with a deadline and only a rough goal, what would you do in your first week?
• A team member keeps missing deadlines on your project. How would you approach that conversation?
• How do you identify risks early on a project, and how do you track them once you have?
• Describe a time a stakeholder asked for extra scope late in a project. What did you do?

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