When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.

"I understand that people like to talk about themselves. The best way that I can create new relationships with others is by asking them about themselves. Hopefully, we find common ground and make a quick connection!"

"I show up on time and dressed appropriately. I spend as much time as I can getting to know my new coworkers and telling them about myself and my family, and asking them about theirs. It is important to understand people on a bit of a personal level to know how to approach them."

"Salespeople love to talk so, when I first start a new job, I ask them about themselves and what makes them successful. This method nearly always opens up the floodgates, and I can make a fast connection."

"I like to ask my new colleagues for their best marketing tip, and also what they are currently working on. Creative types like to bounce ideas off of others which makes these two questions a very effective way to get to know others in the industry."

"When I have a new team, I will hold a team-wide meeting and allow my new staff to ask me any questions they want. I let them voice their biggest concerns and present ideas to me about what we can do to fix them. This introduction builds a form of trust that most managers do not bother forming."

The interviewer would like to know how you plan to start relationships with your new co-workers. Due to a wide variety of personalities, coworker connections can take time to form. How do you ensure that you have a strong line of communication with your co-workers and supervisors, right from the start?

Here are some ideas for getting started on the right foot:

- Be willing to accept feedback and help
- Offer to join a committee or volunteer assistance in some way
- Do not have an air of entitlement or act as though you know the ins and outs immediately
- Avoid all company gossip, at all cost
- Be thankful for the equipment that you have. Don't complain about your used computer or your slow dial out line!
- Be early on your first day (and every day after that!)
- Come dressed appropriately

"I understand that some relationships come quickly and others take time to nurture. When starting a new job all that I can do is be my true self and let my personality, integrity, and reliability speak for itself."

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.