How to Answer: Tell me about a time you improved communication between yourself and a co-worker or client.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Caterpillar job interview.
26. Tell me about a time you improved communication between yourself and a co-worker or client.
What You Need to Know
Possessing the skills needed to improve communication in the workplace is a desirable asset. Advertise your ability to enhance communication in the workplace. Share how you approach identifying opportunities to enhance clear communication. Provide specific examples where you used advanced skills to clarify by non-defensively asking questions, mirroring what was being communicated to you, and how a consensus was reached.
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I have one particular client who was an exceptionally brief communicator. If I asked two questions, he would answer just one. I learned that he would not acknowledge anything for which he did not have a direct answer. I began to ask him questions in a different way. For example, I would say, 'Do you have an answer for me on question X?' and he would say yes or no. We would then go from there. This solution was an effective method of communication for that particular client."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Recently, we worked with a client who continued to change the direction of our work. Our team was heading down one path, and before we knew it, the client expected us to go another direction. We resolved to hold a weekly status touch base call to ensure two-way communication with our team and the client. When work was not done, we could explain why and if the client wanted changes made, we could catch them before wasting time and resources."
Written by Kevin Downey on August 8th, 2022