How do you handle conflict with a coworker or superior?

Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.

"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. Less conflict happens when both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely. Most conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication."

"Conflict doesn't necessarily mean one party is wrong; it just may be that we are coming to the situation with different points of view. If I have a conflict with a coworker or manager, I try to communicate as clearly as possible. I often use reflexive listening to make sure I correctly understand what the other person is saying--it may be as simple as our misunderstanding one another. If we truly disagree, I will calmly work with the other person to find a solution we can both agree to."