How to Answer: What is the most challenging part of supervising biological technicians and junior scientists?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Biological Scientist job interview.
13. What is the most challenging part of supervising biological technicians and junior scientists?
How to Answer
As a biological scientist in a leadership position, you may find that you have difficulties with your employees. A few challenges you may face are balancing being the boss and being a friend, interpersonal conflict on a team or having employees with bad attitudes. Show the interviewer that you are capable of handling challenging leadership situations. If you have not been in a leadership role, talk about an example you have had in the past from a great supervisor. State that you would like to emulate that person's leadership style.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I have not been in a leadership position as of yet; however, I have had some great leaders as examples in my past. My most recent supervisor was excellent at keeping the peace in a high-stakes environment. He knew everyone's motivators and worked with those when he wanted better performance."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"The most challenging thing about supervising technicians and other junior scientists is figuring out what style of communication works for each person. Also, finding out everyone's motivators can be a challenge at first."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced
"I love being a leader and the challenges that come with it. I would say that the most challenging aspect of leading other scientists is to get past everyone's ego. I am not negatively mentioning this - it's just a simple fact the when you have a room full of highly educated people, and Ph.D.'s, ego's can get in the way. I overcome this by showing up with a humble attitude and being a practical example to my team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Also, finding out everyone's motivators can be a challenge at first."
Stephanie's Feedback