How to Answer: How would you handle the situation if you had a team member who constantly seemed to be abandoning his post and leaving unfinished work?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Medical Laboratory Technician job interview.
34. How would you handle the situation if you had a team member who constantly seemed to be abandoning his post and leaving unfinished work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Although this is not meant to be a "trick question," it is important to remember to answer carefully. The interviewer understands that it takes a team effort to make a lab run efficiently. Further, he knows that if one person does not fulfill his responsibilities, it can cause a strain on others. What the interviewer is looking for is your ability to address a possibly tense situation with professionalism while maintaining as much order as possible within your role.
Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019
Entry Level Example
"It can be frustrating when others don't do their job, as we all work together as a team to get things done. However, it is not my job to correct another employee. If the situation is truly one that seems to be habitual and it is affecting my work or the overall production of my team, I will report my concerns to my supervisor and trust them to manage the situation."
Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019
Answer Example
"There are times when everyone feels a bit inadequate or as if they can't finish a job. That's understandable. If a coworker was constantly leaving a job incomplete, however, I think it may be better left to the lab manager to address the issue. In this case, I would ask to speak to my supervisor privately and voice my concerns. I would remember to not be judgmental, as the supervisor may already be aware and taking measures to correct the situation. I will continue to do my job as assigned and offer assistance to others, when I am able."
Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019
Experienced Example
"Unfortunately, situations like this may arise in any work environment. I have learned, throughout my career, to not pass judgment too quickly. There are often times that a person is going through something personally and it affects their work before they even realize it. I would like to think that I could kindly offer support to my coworker and see if we can work as a team to get things accomplished and caught up. If that approach does not work, I will notify my lab manager and let it be handled by them."
Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019
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