Tell us about a time you experienced a conflict with a coworker or a client.
"I recently worked with a client with strong opinions about how their annuities should be re-invested. A friend had given them insider tips on some risky stocks they insisted could make them a lot of money overnight. I didn't think this was a good approach, and they grew angry with me for not doing as I was told. I explained that I was only motivated to act in their best interests and implored them to hear me out. So they agreed to meet me for lunch. I brought my laptop and created a presentation on the history of this stock and how it had behaved recently. I educated them on its shaky hostile takeover, which quickly shifted into another merger and acquisition after another deal to unload this property fell through. I informed them that a big stock dump selling for cheap could further risk their capital. They came out of that lunch very grateful for my clear communication and presentation. They picked up the tab for lunch, and that was that."
One of Prudential's core values is 'Respect for Each Other.' This question tests your conflict management skills (nondefensive communication, mediation, negotiation, diplomacy, and empathy) and what you consider a conflict. Your answer will potentially reveal your emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, whether you were the source of the conflict, and whether you take ownership of your part in it.
Often when a person recalls a conflict situation, the emotions of that moment rise to the surface and be re-experienced. That will cause them to narrow their eyes, fold their arms, and furrow their brow. The assessment vendor's algorithm will study you for defensive cues while you recall your experience with a conflict at work. You'll want to come across as emotionally mature and not regress into the emotion of that conflict when reflecting upon it. So avoid any defensive behavior, posturing, movements, or gestures that could be interpreted as insecure, closed-off, unapproachable, hostile, or disinterested. You may think coming across as a strong figure could be beneficial, but true strength comes from within. Therefore, you want to come across as confident and relaxed.
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 experienced a conflict with a coworker over the summer when interning at the lobbying firm. I was receiving instructions from this coworker and he provided me with instructions that turned out to be incorrect which led me to present the boss with information that she didn't need. Even though I was given the wrong instructions, I just redid the task with the proper information.
Jaymie's Feedback
This would be a frustrating situation to be in. Did you have a follow-up conversation with your coworker? If so, share those details with the interviewer to showcase your communication skills. Also, share what you learned from this conflict and how it impacted your work after that situation.
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