Canadian National Railway Company values problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Tell me about a time you solved a significant issue in the workplace.
The interviewer wants assurances that you're capable of problem-solving, and emotional maturity, while working in a high-pressure or high-stakes environment. Problem-solving and troubleshooting are fundamental requirements in the rail transport industry. Volunteer when you solved a high-stakes issue at work, and the steps you took to follow it through to a positive outcome.
"Recently, it was clear that our operational and field staff felt taken for granted and disregarded by the corporate office. Not only did they feel devalued due to budget cuts and layoffs, but morale was also low from some issues surrounding our union's collective agreements and recent changes. Rather than just let these feelings fester, I decided to listen to the ops staff and then bridge the gap with corporate and the union. By sitting down and having a conversation, and laying out a more effective way of delegating work, promoting those who worked hard, and helping our operational and field staff to feel more job security; everyone walked out feeling better about the job, situation, and their coworkers."
"I problem solve quite often at work, primarily with customer resolution. Just yesterday, I worked with a transport customer who was unhappy with a significant delay in their shipment. Through patient communication, I was able to resolve the complaint and create another returning customer."
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Anonymous Answer
I've been on a project where many trades were working in the same area, with minimal communication between them all. We had seven trucks scheduled to haul material to a site, a couple of hours into the haul we were notified that a paving crew needed to shut down the road. I was able to talk with the site superintendent, my customer, and my employees to come up with a safe alternative route on-site and still maintain my customer's needs for material for that day.
Rachelle's Feedback
A very good example of problem solving and troubleshooting! You seem highly confident in your ability to offer recommendations in the workplace.
