IDEXX Laboratories Mock Interview
Master 30 IDEXX Laboratories interview questions covering diagnostics, veterinary innovation, and science-driven problem solving.
Question 21 of 30
How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?
How to Answer
Example Answer
Example Answer 2
Community Answers
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to people that you work with and for whom you care. Whether it is providing a less than positive work review or terminating someone, giving bad news is not an easy task. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of duty in a transparent, concise, and professional manner.
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I certainly do not enjoy communicating bad news to a co-worker, but I do have experience in doing so. When this type of task is required of me, I make sure to practice empathy. Truth is always key, so I will be honest and clear when communicating the news. For instance, if I am to terminate someone's employment, I will not sugar coat the reasons why. It's best they know so that they can learn from the experience."
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I am very to-the-point when it comes to my communication skills. Good or bad news, there is always a way to improve the situation and create something good from it. After delivering bad news, I will work with my coworker to find a viable solution."
Interview Coach
Jaymie
A real coach, not AI. I read every answer myself and write back with personalized feedback.
Typically responds within 24 hours.
0 - Character Count
Anonymous Answer
It is always hard to give bad news especially when you have to terminate someone's job. I try to show empathy but I am also direct. I had an employee that I was trying to mentor and guide. She was really struggling to try to learn how we did things at our clinic. I did an evaluation with her and I was hoping that would help because she could see what she needed to improve. No improvement so it was decided she was going to be let go. I called her into the office I explained to her that it was not working out and she was being let go. I asked her if she had any questions-all she said was thank you for the chance. I told her that if she used some of the things she learned working here will help with her next job.
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent response! Providing a specific example like this makes your answer meaningful to the interviewer and shows that you know how to handle this type of difficult situation. It's also good that you mention that you try to be empathetic and direct. Nice job!
Unlock All 30 IDEXX Laboratories Questions
Unlock expert responses for veterinary diagnostics and life sciences interviews.
Get StartedJump to Question