Unilever Mock Interview
Practice 40 Unilever interview questions covering brand strategy, sustainability, and consumer insights.
Question 28 of 40
How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?
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Kevin Downey has an extensive background in business management, recruiting, branding and marketing. He's volunteered his career coaching services at job fairs, lecturing on interview techniques and crafting winning resumes and cover letters.
Even the most well-meaning coworkers can distract you from getting things done at work from time to time, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are standing in your way. This question is somewhat entrapping in the way it is phrased. Rather than following along with the tone of the phrasing of this question, separate yourself from it. Showcase a high EQ by holding yourself responsible for your actions. If you allow yourself to be distracted from your work, then it is incumbent on you to communicate that you need to free yourself of such distractions. When communicated nondefensively, this shouldn't be a problem. Showcase your ability to set professional boundaries when needed.
Kimberly is a freelance writer and editor with a decade of experience in the education field, including her time as a pre-kindergarten teacher.
"I typically just set a kind but clear boundary and tell my coworker that I need to focus. I will offer an alternate time for a catch-up, over lunch, for example. The sake of workplace culture needs to set aside time to be social with coworkers, so I usually just let them know when I'll be available for a quick break in the day."
Kimberly is a freelance writer and editor with a decade of experience in the education field, including her time as a pre-kindergarten teacher.
"If I have a distracting co-worker, I will point out the distraction right away while remaining kind. I feel it's always best to nip issues in the bud right away before they become out of control."
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I typically said to them that I need to focus on my work right now, but politely explain that I'll be glad to sit and talk later during breaks or lunch maybe. I understand the need to build relationships with other coworkers. But they need to know when I build the line from work and chit chat. They and I need to know work time is work time, and we need to focus on whatever we are doing during this time.
Rachelle's Feedback
It sounds like you have confidence in building boundaries. I recommend rephrasing slightly so that your response doesn't come off as 'They need to...they need...I need...' Try to maintain a balance of boundaries while understanding there is a social aspect to most jobs.
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