How do you typically interact with challenging customers or coworkers on the job?
Because of the co-operative nature of the business at Fonterra, you will likely be working closely with a wide range of individuals in the job you will be interviewing for. Your interviewer is well aware that it's merely human nature for every person to have personality styles that clash with their own, so they want to hear how you have interacted with challenging people in the past in your work.
"In my current job, I am out on the road dealing with a wide variety of customers and I am very flexible in my approach when I face a challenging individual. Some customers can be very demanding and some can be very unhappy at times. My approach is to always keep a smile on my face, listen to what they are saying, and then take action to make the situation right. This is a value I will live daily here at Fonterra as your next sales specialist."
"When I come across a challenging customer or colleague, I continue to be my genuine self. People often come around when they feel the warmth and acceptance from the other person. If someone is especially difficult, I will approach them about the situation and ask how they feel we could better collaborate. These are approaches I would always continue to take as part of the amazing team here at Fonterra."
Prior to your interview, think back to a client who was very difficult to please or a coworker who was incredibly brief in their communication. As you answer, you want to showcase your ability to work harmoniously with people who may have different communication styles or personalities than you and that you'd join the Fonterra team with the ability to work collaboratively with anyone. This question is not the time to speak poorly of a boss, coworker, or client, but rather you should focus your answer more on what you did to turn a challenging situation into a positive one.
