How do you get along with others at work?

Question

Rachelle Enns · Accepted Answer

"I get along great with my co-workers. I am sure to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed or taking time to listen to someone who is having a challenging day. The other day one of my co-workers was overloaded with tasks. As soon as I noticed, I offered to take on some of their work. We collaborated on his backlog of work and ended up catching him up by the end of the day. My colleague was thankful that I noticed their need and was generous with my time."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

The interviewer wants to gauge if you can maintain healthy relationships in the workplace. They want to know more about the team dynamics you've encountered and how you approach communicating with your co-workers. The goal of your response is to highlight that your approach to getting along with others aligns with the hiring company's workplace culture.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Avoid exaggerated and/or generic responses like, 'I get along well with everyone at all times because I show them respect.' Rarely do we get along with everyone all of the time, so a response like that could indicate to the interviewer that you are being untruthful or you are passive and avoid conflict at all costs. Generic statements like, 'I show them respect' fail to provide a complete picture of your approach. Instead, describe the specific ways that you show respect to others.

It's also essential to avoid turning this question into an opportunity to speak poorly of others or comment judgmentally about other people's work styles.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Some of the ways you can get along with your co-workers include: - Making an effort to develop personal connections with them right away
- Asking them about themselves and their lives more often than you talk about yourself
- Being a positive communicator rather than someone who is negative or likes to gossip
- Acting as a helpful and approachable resourceBe prepared to discuss actions you have taken in the workplace to develop healthy and respectful co-worker relationships.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Think about the co-worker relationships that you've enjoyed the most and found the most fulfilling. Then, consider the actions you took to contribute to those positive relationships. Look for common themes that show you are a good team player who respects others.

When expressing how you get along with others at work, consider telling a story highlighting these traits and qualities in action. Then, make a connection between your approach to building workplace relationships and how it aligns with the hiring company's workplace/team environment.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"I put conscious effort into getting along with others at work. I am a conscious communicator who is self-aware. For instance, I recently sensed that my manager was having an exceptionally stressful day. I exuded extra kindness towards them that day and was proactive in my tasks. Later, my manager thanked me for noticing that they needed an extra boost that day. It feels great to exude kindness, and you can rest assured that I will bring my positive nature to this team every day."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"As a manager, I have led diverse personalities, and I can work well with a wide range of individuals. If I do not see eye-to-eye with someone at first, I will take the time to get to know them and find common ground. Recently one of our top sales reps was transferred to my team. This individual's personality is gregarious; however, after spending a few days with this person and remaining open to their approaches, I began to enjoy the passion they bring to the company genuinely. Rather than criticize this person's character, I realized that I appreciated the core of who they are. The lesson was that when I have a connection to someone, it's much easier to build a healthy working relationship. So, I first look for that link rather than criticize their personality."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"I get along well with my coworkers and strive to be a strong communicator in all situations. If a concern comes up, I'm sure to address the issue promptly so the situation doesn't impact the work environment. For instance, my manager approached me last week to discuss why I missed my sales target for the week. I'd beaten my target by 12%; however, our tracking system encountered a glitch, not showing a few of my sales. Rather than becoming frustrated with my manager for questioning my work and results, I patiently explained the situation and assured them that I had exceeded my goals. I strive to be a team player in all situations. More than anything, I want always to be a positive and respectful contributor, regardless of misunderstandings that may arise."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"It's important to me that I get along with others at work and that everyone feels comfortable in their work environment. Last month one of our retail managers was having a tough time and, unfortunately, was taking the situation out on myself and the other sales rep working the floor with me that day. I focused on doing my job well, greeting our customers, helping the other sales rep, and keeping a positive attitude throughout the day. I got down to work without allowing our manager's behavior to impact my day. Later that week, my co-worker thanked me for helping make their day easier. It felt great that my positive nature was appreciated and that it made an impact."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"A large part of my role as a teacher is to find common ground with a range of individuals and stakeholders, including my fellow educators, supervisors, students, and the students' families. I am mindful to look for the best in others. Even when there are moments of disagreement, I see the situation from the other persons' perspective - especially if it's a student. For example, I welcomed a new student to my class part-way through the school year. This student struggled to get along with other classmates and lacked respect in the classroom. Rather than get frustrated and assume this student would always be a problem, I booked a meeting with her and her parents. We discussed how challenging it was for her to move schools mid-year, and I asked what I could do to support them with the transition. We brainstormed a few ideas, created an action plan, and committed to sticking to the plan. The alternative was disciplining the student without keeping the lines of communication open which would have caused a rift between me, the student, and her parents. This story is one example of how I work to create a collaborative environment rather than allow a negative relationship to form."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"I enjoy people and like to find common ground. Despite differences that might occur, I still appreciate everyone for their individuality. My agency recently implemented 360 peer feedback. In my latest performance review, my co-workers shared their appreciation for how I focus on accomplishing tasks and reaching goals as a collective group. I was complimented for my positive contributions and listening more than I speak. I am sure to back up my opinions with facts or examples, and when I see an opportunity to help, I do."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along great with others with work. It is important to build a positive relationship with those around you because a positive work environment is crucial to obtain a common goal successfully. Having played sports the majority of my life, I understand the importance of supporting your fellow teammates to the best of your ability."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I work well with others and tend to build relationships outside the workplace."

Anonymous User · Answer

"Communicating and helping co-workers are great tools to maintain healthy relationships with them in the office. I am not a computer expert, but I have basic skills. I always help my coworkers if I see somebody having problems doing something on the computer. I greet them by name and discuss work-related matters."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I enjoy the ability to laugh with my co-workers, especially on the tough days. It makes those days a lot more fun. I am passionate about music and animals and have bonded with co-workers on those subjects and shared pictures and CDs with them. I really love being able to support my teammates as well regarding personal and work issues. I appreciate their support too. We all need it."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along really well with my co-workers. I believe that my positive attitude makes me a great team player. I am always honest, loyal, and supportive to my team and the company that I work for."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along well with my co-workers. I have always had this helpful attitude to other members of the team especially if they get overwhelmed with workload. I want to work with a happy attitude and with an open mind to accept and understand that any feedback from the team will make me a better person to do my job."

Anonymous User · Answer

"Overall I get along great with my co-workers. I make an effort to talk with the supervisors about the challenges they are having. I also enjoy playing golf with people from other departments to build relationships outside of my group."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along great with my co-workers as I always try to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive of each team member with their new creative ideas."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I've been blessed to work with great people thus far, so my professional relationships have been great, marked by excellent communication, a sense of humor, and support."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along with my colleagues at work, and I always try to maintain a good atmosphere within my team by being friendly, approachable, and helping everyone, when needed."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along very well with others, I attribute this to my communication skills. Also knowing how to be supportive and understanding towards co-workers is something I try to keep in mind while going through my workday."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I work with other people very well. I am a good listener and supportive teammate. When I communicate with others, I always listen to them carefully and understand their needs. Also, I like to help other people with my knowledge and skill."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I'm always positive and have a listening ear. I think that camaraderie in the workplace is needed to enjoy our jobs and I make sure to always be friendly and work well with others."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along great with my coworkers. I make sure to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed, or just taking some time to listen to someone who is having a challenging day."

Anonymous User · Answer

"As a software engineer, It's common to work with a diverse set of people from tech, to business to design. I know how to adjust my communication to be more technical for the engineers and high level when speaking to business or design. I know the business side focuses on time and business value and design are focused on the visual look to the customer, ignoring the logic. I also know to not argue about trivial details, acknowledge their point of view, and stay positive and smiling."

Anonymous User · Answer

"The workplace is my second home so I want to have a healthy, positive, friendly, and collegial relationship with my work family. Honest and clear communication is the best way to understand each other. It is important to remember everybody has bad days."

Anonymous User · Answer

"- Making an effort to develop personal connections with them right away- Asking them about themselves and their lives more often than you talk about yourself- Being a positive communicator rather than someone who is negative or likes to gossip- Acting as a helpful and approachable resource"

Anonymous User · Answer

"To get along with others as a lab technician, I communicate effectively, am reliable, respect differences, and have a positive attitude. This includes active listening, meeting commitments, treating colleagues with empathy and kindness, and focusing on solutions rather than problems. Using these tips can help build positive relationships in a team environment."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along great with my co-workers! I always try to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed, or if I am taking time to listen to someone who is having a bad day."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along with others by listening to them. I do not offer advice right away because sometimes people want to be heard and understood. If they want advice, then I will offer them my honest opinion. I also would avoid gossiping because it is not good for the company and the people around you. Drama is a waste of time and being unproductive. I would take an interest in others and collaborate in teams."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I have never had an issue when it comes to collaborating with others at work. I am a conscious communicator and am always able to express myself in a kind and professional manner. A positive mindset is a must when working in a customer relations corporation."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I got along with most of my co-workers and developed one of my best friends from working together. We don't work together anymore, but she is still a big part of my life."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I have an excellent relationship with coworkers. I believe if asked, they would describe me as friendly, approachable, and a team player."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I work well in a team. I find I can build genuine connections with others at work."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along great with my coworkers, I always try to be positive, and if someone needs support, I always try to support them."

Anonymous User · Answer

"When I'm at work I will make sure that I'm doing my job and help my coworker if necessary. And I'm a go getter. I like myself to be busy with work."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I have excellent communication skills, a good sense of humor. I have all of the great qualities that make co-worker relationships harmonious and healthy."

Anonymous User · Answer

"In retail, you're going to encounter all kinds of different diversity. With the employees in my time as a manager, I've always been able to work with all diversities. I had great communication with my employees."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I try to maintain a positive attitude.There will always be difficult co-workers. I try to find common ground with them and positively relate to them.I prefer to focus on the skills that they bring to the job so we can work well together."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I am a supportive co-worker and a great team player, and in a hectic health environment like ours, I believe that is important."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I get along really well with others at work. I believe that my laid back personality and overall friendly demeanor make me an ideal teammate and leader."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I have never had an issue with getting along with others at work. I am the type of person who speaks their mind; I try to be honest as often as I can. I like to be friendly to everyone and always give people a smile or wave when I walk by them."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I feel like you should be able to have a good time at work whether you're cracking jokes or getting to know your coworkers on a personal note, just being friendly."

Anonymous User · Answer

"Having worked in another country, I have led a diverse team. There were people from Asia, the Middle East, and the United States, and they all had different values. This was a great experience for me, and I learned a lot about people. People in my culture are very direct. This was sometimes difficult for people to manage, so I was able to adapt to the person."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I have experienced a diverse range of people working in various jobs, and I always get along great with my coworkers. I love getting to know my co-workers and their hobbies. I also love to maintain an optimistic attitude at work, and I believe that's what helps me get along with others."

How do you get along with others at work?

How to Answer: How do you get along with others at work?

9. How do you get along with others at work?

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