Tell me a time you faced conflict in a team.
"A recent policy change went into effect. The person who shared my cubicle was grousing about it, casting shade on the policy. I didn't agree with their perspective and didn't feel their negative outlook was doing them any good. Instead of bringing it up to my coworker, I stopped my supervisor the next time they happened by. Without naming any names, I told them the policy wasn't being perceived well by some. I asked several questions as to why they implemented the policy change. This allowed our supervisor to correct the misconception, framing it in the positive light it deserved. Change can be hard, but not all change is bad. After the supervisor finished and left, my coworker thanked me for clearing it up."
Are you part of the problem or part of the solution, working towards a communal end goal? This question aims to get a glimpse of your mediation and negotiation skills. Your answer will offer insights into what you consider a conflict and how you confront it, defensively or with diplomacy which attests to your soft skills.
Often when a person recalls a conflict situation, the emotions of that moment rise to the surface and are re-experienced. This will cause them to narrow their eyes, fold their arms, and furrow their brow. The assessment vendor's algorithm will study you for any such 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.
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