What is your approach to ensuring strong communication among your teams and between departments?
Your interviewer is curious about how skilled a communicator you are. How you answer this question may inform them of your experience level, and how effectively you will work with, and support the efforts of, your superiors and your employer. Communication encompasses far more than how you relay information to others. It also covers how effectively you listen, whether you seek clarification, whether you process information emotionally or situationally, and how empathic you are when communicating with others. How you answer will also inform them of what kind of team player you are, as well as your leadership potential.
Successful communication between departments is key to the success of any team, especially for BNSF Railway, regardless of what department you are working in. Communication breakdowns can have dire consequences in the rail transport industry, which could potentially impact the safety of employees, customers, members of the public, BNSF's reputation, or the cargo being transported. Communication is a frequent job requirement for most of their advertised positions. "Interface with [your] team and other departments to effectively coordinate safe operations. Lead crew discussions on how to approach others about safety, relay information about safety, ways to minimize risk, and create a culture of safety compliance."
"I tend to over-communicate in all situations. Especially in high-pressure situations, where clear communication is imperative. You can never take someone's word for it when they tell you they understand. You may not have had their full attention, or they may not have heard you correctly. You also don't know how distracted they are when they're hurriedly communicating something to you, or how they may have interpreted what you are trying to say. And, even when you communicate clearly, and later they say you didn't, then who is truly to blame? So, I am the type of person who always takes responsibility for my actions. And working for the railroads, where the stakes are high and safety is the number one priority, I over-communicate. I hold their attention until I am absolutely sure the message sent is the message received, whether I am actively listening to what is being communicated to me and seeking clarity, or the other way around."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I encourage healthy communication in the workplace by letting everyone know it is ok to ask questions especially when it comes to efficiency and safety. I am my brother and sister's keeper and a healthy line of communication helps prevent injury bc all injuries are preventable, no injury is acceptable. Safety is a way of life.
Marcie's Feedback
It's great that you encourage your team members to ask questions. Other things you can do to improve communication are to be an active listener, recognize that people have different communication styles, hold regular team meetings, and give constructive feedback. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
"I show my co-workers the importance of communication through my willingness to ask questions or seek clarification. I do not pretend to have an answer just to look smart. By creating an environment where it's safe to ask questions or ask for clarification, our customer service has improved, we have more on-time deliveries, and fewer workplace accidents."
Marcie's Feedback
Great! The interviewer will be happy to hear that you are willing to ask questions and seek clarification. You might also talk about being an active listener, recognizing that people have different communication styles, paying attention to your body language, and providing/being open to constructive criticism. If there's a specific example you can also include of a time when you encouraged/facilitated healthy communication in your workplace, definitely mention that as well. Good job!
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