If you felt a policy was causing more harm than good, how would you suggest making changes to that policy?
"Well, I'd approach my supervisor, and express my concerns, sharing everything I know about how the said policy and its negative impact. I'd then ask several questions surrounding why this policy was in place and ask if this has been addressed or tackled before. This way I could perhaps trouble shoot the situation further. I'd ask them if anything like my suggestions have been attempted before. I'd again share why I felt it was prudent to bring it up, and would ask if they felt it was a priority to address this now, or at another time in the near future. I want to support my team in every way I can, and that includes trusting in the priorities set by our leaders. But I'm responsible for my actions and inactions. So if there is a concern, it is incumbent on me to bring it to our leaders' attention, and let them decide."
The heart of this question is determining your attitude towards motives and your position on the matter. They'll be evaluating your experience level with how effective your communication is. Your answer will also offer insights into how sound your judgement is, while revealing your personal integrity, your values and ethics.
A common mistake for an employee to make is to assume why a policy is in place before asking clarifying questions. A company often goes through many growing pains before finding what works best procedurally. Sometimes, a policy is replaced through innovation. Other times, an implementing an imperfect policy is the best solution available. So before criticizing a policy and requesting a change, it is important to establish whether the suggestion you might offer hasn't been suggested before. Too often that very suggestion may have already been tried and failed, inevitably replaced with the very policy you're suggesting replacing. So, before making any suggestions for improvements, it is necessary to fact gather and explore its potential before approaching your supervisors with your suggestion. This will reflect that you are thorough in your approach and exemplify a strong work ethic.
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 would talk to my supervisor about this policy to try to understand why it is still being used. I would explain the reasons why I believe it should be changed, giving concrete everyday situations that support my point of view. Making it clear to the supervisor that the changes would always be aimed at the best of the company.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! Trying to understand the existing policy better is a great first step. Talking to your supervisor and giving concrete examples is a good way to show why you feel the policy is causing harm. Would you follow up later to see if the policy had been changed?
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