MinuteClinic seeks to hire those with strong problem-solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess. Display to the interviewer that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace. Talk about a time you were creative, proactive, and displayed the leadership qualities required to resolve a workplace issue.

If you are new to the industry and do not have a workplace example, provide an example from school that shows your ability to resolve a problem. Working in the healthcare industry requires quick-thinking individuals who can stay calm and professional when problems arise.

"In my most recent position, we had a consistent problem with employees arriving late for their shifts or calling in sick at the very last moment. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style that management usually takes, I decided to track the results using an accountability reward system. For 180 days, I rewarded my employees for coming to work 10 minutes early. I also added a bonus for every month with zero sick days. Ultimately, we awarded those with perfect attendance a $600 bonus. In the end, the bonus cost us less money than the cost of lowered productivity due to absent employees. The program was successful, and upper management chose to keep it implemented for another six months. We will re-assess in December, but it seems to work very well."

"I worked in a clinic where the primary population was low income. We had a lot of concerns with patients not showing up for appointments when expected. The staff wanted to start double-booking patient time slots. Instead, I got permission to spend a day in a highly-rated clinic serving the same population. Instead of scheduling, they had these 'drop-in mornings' with a common waiting room. I took these methods and incorporated them into our setting. We did that twice weekly, which completely solved our scheduling problem."