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Can you share a time when you had to change how you explained something technical to people who aren’t tech-savvy?
The person asking the question wants to know if you can simplify tech talk and adjust based on who you’re speaking to. They want to see if you’re good at reading the room and making tech stuff understandable for everyone.
- Use simple language, avoiding technical jargon when speaking to non-technical stakeholders.
- Incorporate analogies and visuals to make technical concepts easier to understand.
- Be open to questions and address any misunderstandings from the audience.
- Highlight the practical implications or benefits of the technical concepts for the audience.
- Adapt your communication style based on the audience's level of technical understanding.
- Share the outcome or success of your adapted communication.
- Do not suggest that you struggled to communicate effectively.
- Avoid expressing any unwillingness to adapt your communication style.
- Don't leave the non-technical stakeholders confused or unsatisfied in your example.
- Avoid using too much technical jargon.
- Don't assume prior technical knowledge on the part of your audience.
Sample Answer 1
During a project, I had to present the technical details of a new feature to our marketing team, who had limited technical knowledge. To ensure effective communication, I adapted my approach by using simple language, analogies, and visual aids to explain the concept. I also encouraged questions and made sure to address any misunderstandings. The marketing team appreciated my efforts, and they were able to understand the feature's benefits and incorporate it into their promotional materials.
Sample Answer 2
I once had to explain the potential impact of a technical issue to our client, who was not well-versed in software development. To communicate effectively, I adjusted my communication style by avoiding technical jargon and focusing on the issue's practical implications for their business. I used clear examples and visuals to illustrate my points, and I made sure to answer any questions they had. By adapting my communication style, I was able to help the client understand the issue and its potential impact, which allowed us to collaboratively develop a plan to address the problem.