Tell me about a time you identified a communication breakdown.
Your interviewer is curious about how you navigate communication breakdowns or difficulties and whether you are skilled in non-defensive communication. "Effective communication is crucial in the event of high-stress situations such as aircraft evacuation, security threats, delays, medical emergencies, severe weather conditions, and turbulence." So, after exploring their communication standards and expectations, be ready to explain how you'd employ your skills in a manner that would meet and exceed their expectations.
"Someone had placed their child in an exit row for the extra legroom, yet their child was not capable of helping in the event of an emergency. I explained that they needed to open that seat up for someone capable of assisting in an emergency, but they repeatedly asserted that they paid extra for those seats and had no intention of giving them up. I then changed course and explained that when they paid extra, they had to agree to be able to assist in an emergency; otherwise, they would be reassigned. I empathized with them and expressed that I understood their position. I then offered to move them with their child so they could sit together or that I could switch seats with their child, who could then visit the cockpit mid-flight. They agreed that they would prefer to sit with their child, and I asked a couple who had seats further up the plane if they would switch, and they agreed."
"I worked on a team to solve a problem that could have potential effects on our ability to grow the business and reach our goals, which was integral as we were at risk of a hostile takeover, which has caused a lack of communication between the team as thoughts of job security flood people. I suggested to my department head that we have a team-building event. I wanted to gather everyone to remind them that we are still a team. Each person on the team was tasked with a different aspect, such as gathering data and analyzing it while we got everyone on the same page with everything that was happening. We came together to discuss the results but couldn't seem to agree. We were struggling to listen to each person's opinion. I explained my observation, and I suggested we give each person a chance to talk through their findings and opinions, which helped us take a more collaborative approach and pave one cohesive vision and path forward."
As they detail online, they expect their employees to interact "in a professional and friendly manner with clients, coworkers, and customers of diverse backgrounds. Works with other crew members on a team to ensure all services meet company standards. Takes responsibility and is accountable for commitments and assignments. Displays exceptional interpersonal skills, exercises good judgment, and can resolve conflicts with grace."
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 was the lead on a team project where the members continuously approached me on an individual basis with their findings and thoughts. I found this to be ineffective and counterproductive. I called for a meeting and shared with the group my concerns. I suggested we schedule weekly meetings where everyone would have the opportunity to hear and discuss other members' findings and opinions. I explained that a collaborative approach would be more beneficial and would help in achieving the group goal.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good answer! You took the right steps as a leader, and it shows.
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