Describe a conflict situation you faced at work. How did you solve it?
"There was a relatively new employee who joined our division. They were assigned a particularly challenging project that fell into my field of expertise. I offered to help them and provided some insights and suggestions, but that triggered some unexpected defensiveness. I backed off, said I hadn't meant to overstep my bounds, and offered any help should they decide to reach out. A few days later, they apologized. This person came in from a pretty-dog-eat-dog shark-tank environment and was accustomed to others trying to take credit for their accomplishments by suggesting they'd been responsible for their development. When they realized that wasn't my way of doing things, they reached out and asked for some help, and I was more than willing. I didn't take it personally. I just felt bad that they'd had such an unfortunate experience at work that led to such distrust."
Interviewers ask this question to determine what you view as a conflict and how skillfully you confront it. Your answer will speak to your general attitude while offering insights into your problem-solving and interpersonal skills. It will reveal your emotional intelligence and effectiveness in diplomacy, mediation, and negotiation. Avoid coming across as negative when discussing the subject of your answer. Avoid any situation that could convey you have issues with those in positions of authority and avoid situations lacking a positive resolution.
When a person recalls instances of conflict, they'll revisit the emotions associated with that memory. They may narrow their eyes, fold their arms, and furrow their brow. They may stutter or stammer, take long pauses, and shake their head. Or, they may straighten their back, look down their nose, and try to come across as firm, ridged, and strong. However, these behaviors could convey defensiveness, such as insecure, closed-off, unapproachable, hostile, or disinterested. The assessment vendor's algorithm will watch for any or all of these cues. So posture yourself as emotionally mature, levelheaded, confident, and relaxed. Speak clearly while avoiding speech crutches and long pauses.
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