What behaviors, attitudes, or traits would you attribute to generating conflict at work?
Dealing with stressful high-stakes situations is part of any national defense job. How you answer this question will help your interviewer assess how adeptly you manage your stress, or help others on your team deal with theirs. They're also curious how likely you are to generate or perpetuate conflict versus deescalating conflict through non-defensive communication and diplomacy. Lastly, this question will help your interviewer determine how well you work with others, and how effectively you'll work with the members of their teams at the NSA. Your aim is to discuss how adeptly you are able to work with any personality type, and how comfortable you are working in a diverse environment with a variety of perspectives.
"A bad attitude, projecting stress, a lack of accountability, dishonesty, and disrespect. I was raised by proud parents and grandparents, who are emotionally mature and raised me to be the same. So, I expect of others what I expect of myself. That being said, I will always help others strive to be the best version of themselves if that is what they're striving for. I also was raised to show respect for all people that I work closely with and expect the same shown to me. I've worked with a couple of colleagues during my career that weren't honest and transparent in their work and I was never hesitant to call them out on those issues, respectfully and with empathy. I never contribute to conflict and have strong mediation and diplomacy skills. The last time I witnessed a colleague treating another disrespectfully, I called them out on it in private. I trust my communication made an impact since within minutes they apologized to that individual. We need to work together as a team."
When delivering your answer, focus on your communication skills, your influencing and negotiation skills, your interpersonal skills, and your resilience even in the most stressful situations. Many of these fall under the skill sets they require from their employees. So, model your response according to their values and expectations. "Remaining optimistic and persistent, even under adversity, treating others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect, persuading others, building consensus through negotiation, and gaining cooperation from others to obtain information and accomplish goals, considering varied backgrounds, work experience, and organizational roles in working with others."
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
I don't really mind their different personalities, they can be bold or meek, or friendly. If they are good at their job, then I am satisfied with them. if we work in a team, and we get into a conflict, we should communicate properly and try to negotiate towards a common ground.
Marcie's Feedback
Your answer shows that you are open to working with different personalities, which is great. You might consider mentioning a few traits that turn you off like when others don't pull their weight or are rude and inconsiderate.
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