Have you ever disagreed with a close colleague on a work issue? How did you work through that disagreement?

Question

Rachelle Enns · Accepted Answer

"A couple of years ago, I worked on a project team on an RFP for a new lab systems provider. After we reviewed the presentations and data from four different providers, we were in a deadlock between the top two and couldn't come to an agreement. Some conversations on the pros and cons got a bit heated, so I took the initiative to ask if we could have one last demo from each provider and for us as a team to use a hard rating scale on several items. I worked through setting up the second demos from each vendor and creating an evaluation form and system to use. The process worked great, and we selected a great new vendor that we still use today."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

To consider you for further interviews after your HireVue session, the hiring team at Pfizer wants to understand your conflict resolution skills. The goal of your response is to provide evidence that you can handle and resolve conflict professionally in alignment with the values and culture at Pfizer.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Conflict happens in any workplace, so the goal of your response is not to deny conflict. Instead, it's to show that you can move through conflict constructively.

Finding common ground with a coworker, despite disagreeing with them, shows the hiring managers at Pfizer that your desire to collaborate is stronger than your need to be correct. Overcoming disagreements in the workplace also highlights your ability to problem-solve while facing a difference of opinion.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Even though you may have great relationships with your coworkers, there will be times when you don't 100% agree. Think of a conflict or disagreement with a coworker where you responded professionally and worked toward a solution.

When asked to 'Talk about a time when...,' it's important to remember that the hiring managers are looking for a specific story-based example that highlights your professional behavior in challenging interpersonal situations.

Using the STAR interview method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), you can form an easy-to-follow and engaging story-based response.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

The average HireVue interview takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. This one-way video interview typically includes three to five questions. Depending on the hiring company's parameters, the HireVue platform will generally give you 30 seconds to prepare a response and up to two minutes to answer each question. It's important to note that HireVue stops recording as soon as your time limit is up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.

Anonymous User · Answer

"While working at ______ in neurology, I was consulted on a client whom I believed to be having an acute stroke. I wanted a CT scan with contrast, however, her nephrologist was adamantly against it since the contrast is damaging to the kidneys. Instead of arguing the importance of the brain over the kidney, I expedited an emergent MRI as they are not harmful to the kidneys. I try to welcome collaboration and teamwork for the best possible patient outcomes."

Have you ever disagreed with a close colleague on a work issue? How did you work through that disagreement?

How to Answer: Have you ever disagreed with a close colleague on a work issue? How did you work through that disagreement?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Pfizer job interview.

3. Have you ever disagreed with a close colleague on a work issue? How did you work through that disagreement?

The Goal

Pro Tip

How to Answer

What You Need to Know

Answer Example

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback