At PepsiCo, we understand that conflict can arise when you work closely with others on a team. Give me an example of a time you had to deal with an issue while working with others.
Responding to conflict can be tricky, especially in a team environment where you want to be sensitive and not step on any toes. This behavioral question gives the interviewer insight into the strategies you've developed over the years to respond to interpersonal conflict.
"During my internship, I was assigned a very stressful group project. The team consisted of four of my peers and myself, and there were personality conflicts among the team from the start. Everyone wanted to be in charge, but no one wanted to do any of the work. I suggested that we all nominate a lead for the project, and the group responded positively to that idea and nominated me. I devised an overview of the project and some milestones we needed to achieve. With the group's feedback, I determined everyone's strengths and delegated the tasks that aligned best with those strengths. When someone on the team was negative, I would redirect them and pull them aside and remind them of the importance of providing constructive input and maintaining a positive attitude."
"My coworker was a great salesman but was careless on the administrative side. He made regular errors and didn't seem to care, which was frustrating because I take pride in the quality of my work. We also worked together on various client work, and I wanted to ensure that our clients always received the best. I asked him how he felt about work and his performance on certain tasks. He got some additional training to get on the same page as the rest of the team."
Share an example of a conflict that you effectively resolved within your department or between you and a co-worker. Explain the situation and how your actions resulted in a resolution or a compromise. Highlight the traits that contributed to your success in handling the problem, such as active listening skills or assertiveness.
"In my current position, there has been a concern with workplace bullying, and a particular group of individuals 'lead the pack,' so to speak. The situation became out of control a few months ago, and I had to involve human resources and conduct a few exit interviews. It is never easy having to terminate employees, but if they cause conflict that gets in the way of a positive work environment, it is the best choice in the end."
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
We are now working on thesis work. Three days ago we had a conflict related to the difficulty of work that should be done by each member. The conflict was solved peacefully. I suggested that we review our commitments and divide our tasks equally based on the strengths of each member. The problem was then solved.
Jaymie's Feedback
This is a good example to share with the interviewer. It showed you took initiative during a conflict to provide solutions that were suitable for all parties and used a good technique of matching tasks with team member strengths. If you can, close out your response with the success of the project. Did you earn a good grade? Also, it can be helpful to share how your techniques and skills in conflict resolution at school will translate into the workplace.
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