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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.
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader. Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time. Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.

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.
"What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree; however, you have to communicate your thoughts professionally and ultimately comply with the leader's decision on a particular issue."

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 have had team members disagree with decisions that I have made as a manager, and it does not bother me unless they are disrespectful about the situation. I think it's great to face challenging thoughts in the workplace and I welcome varying trains of thought. In fact, I believe that sometimes disagreeing with the leader is the strongest sign of a good team member. If someone disagrees with me because they have the greater good of the team and/or the company in mind, then I want to hear that. And as a strong leader, I need to hear it."

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Anonymous Answer
Absolutely, as long as there is respect and communication most disagreements can be resolved or mitigated. Even if a disagreement isn't resolved or mitigated a good team player will maintain a professional level of respect and support the leader's decision with a positive attitude.

Stephanie's Feedback
This is a very strengths-focused approach! This reflects a commitment to mutual respect and communication, as well as flexibility and positivity that is critical in the workplace. Good work!
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30 Questions & Answers • Occidental Petroleum Corporation

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