Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult person. How did you handle it?
From your work history, picture a coworker who didn't carry their weight or had a difficult personality. Maybe they were unmotivated or preoccupied with their personal life. Think about what bothered you about this person and how you were affected by their behavior. Most importantly, the interviewer wants to know if you let this person's behavior affect you and your work performance.
Avoid taking this as an opportunity to complain about someone; instead, view it as an opportunity to showcase your ability to deal with difficult people while maintaining your productivity and professionalism. This will give the interviewer insight into your personality and your problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict-resolution skills.
"In my previous position, I did have a coworker who didn't pull their weight. This situation created more work for the rest of the team. It didn't take much time before our manager noticed this particular individual was slacking. In most instances, underachievers will weed themselves out over time, and it's rarely worth making a fuss over."
"In my first position out of college, I worked with a person who enjoyed gossip in the workplace. I found that I could redirect her to work by giving a quick reply and then asking her a pointed work question, which would get her back on task. There were a few key takeaways from this experience. I learned how to concentrate among chatter or disruption better than before, and I perfected my skills at refocusing someone else on the task at hand."
"Difficult people simply make me work harder! I enjoy trying to understand where they are coming from and then what techniques I can apply to help them improve their behavior or resolve a situation. Most difficult people want to be heard, so I listen, empathize, and direct them in the direction we need to go."
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 am one who respects other people's views and diversities. I also do not feel anyone is unapproachable. we only need to patiently study their space and know when it's best to have a conversation. most people tagged difficult have trust issues which may not be their fault. I always try to reassure them when the opportunity presents itself. It always works.
Marcie's Feedback
It's great that you're confident in your ability to work with someone who is considered difficult. Make sure to include a specific example here, though, of a time when you successfully worked with someone who had different views than you. Providing an example will prove to the interviewer that you are truly capable in this area. Good job!
Anonymous Answer
I worked with a coworker that was often distracted and not contributing. I tried to lead by example and soon he started doing more.
Marcie's Feedback
Consider using the STAR method to answer this question. Clearly explain the situation, task, action, and result so the interviewer gets a good picture of what transpired and how you overcame working with a difficult person. When you say you led by example, what exactly did you do? More details will make this a much stronger response. Good job!
Unlock all 35 MRI Technologist questions
Prepare for technical scenarios and patient interaction questions that radiology managers expect.
Get Started