What sources do you turn to when solving a complicated problem?
The interviewer wants to know that you can think outside the box or ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem. Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals, and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, or colleagues to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
"When faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's a moral rather than a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
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
If I don't have the answer, I look to co-workers, paper and online information, and friends and family.
Alexandra's Feedback
Great answer!
Anonymous Answer
When a complicated problem occurs that I cannot solve myself, I will look for help from coworkers and managers. For example, I notice that there are always two cashiers at a cash register. When a customer asks about something that I have not known yet, I will ask my coworker for help. If the customer is still not satisfied with the answer, I will move the customer to another place so that we do not obstruct customers waiting behind, and look to a manager to solve the issue.
Chad's Feedback
Great answer! You do well to demonstrate your problem-solving capability in your response, as well as your observation skills. Including the fact that you would ask the customer to step aside to further discuss the issue, in order not to hold up the line, is a smart addition. Well done!
Unlock all 40 Costco questions
Prepare for Costco's culture-focused questions that test member-first thinking.
Get Started