How to Answer: How would you present bad or disappointing news to your team members?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Entry-Level Manager job interview.
33. How would you present bad or disappointing news to your team members?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Since you are new to your management career, the hiring company needs to be sure that you are ready and capable of challenging management-related tasks. Delivering disappointing news to others is one example of a managerial task that takes practice, insight, and emotional intelligence. The interviewer wants to see that your leadership approach will be a fit for their company's culture and that you can handle uncomfortable situations while maintaining a position of authority.
Give an example of a time when you had a challenging conversation. Since you are a new manager, you can use an example from a peer-to-peer relationship, an instance that occurred during your education career, or even a team sport or volunteer experience. Explain what the bad or disappointing news was, how you approached the conversation, and the result of your approach.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I recently read an article by Amy Gallo published on the Harvard Business Review, one of my favorite online resources for management information and skill-building. This article gave a step-by-step approach that I believe is highly effective. First, I prepare ahead of time for the conversation. Then, I speak clearly and directly. The article advised that people often take bad news better if they believe the decision-making process was sound, so my next step is to explain how I reached the decision. The next step is to allow for venting but not a debate. Last, I move the conversation to focus on the future. I had the opportunity to use this framework a few weeks ago when I had to tell my volunteer leader that I was no longer able to commit to three evenings per week at the food bank. I had been a reliable volunteer for four years. I approached her and let her know that my university workload had grown immensely. I explained that I had decided to step down after breaking down the hours I needed to study for my final semester. She expressed her disappointment and asked me to reconsider. I let her know that I was firm on the decision but appreciated her persistence. I let her know that I would be willing to help out at special events in the future and even put the word out for other volunteers to increase their commitment. As I step into my first management position, I will take this framework with me for every challenging conversation I face. I don't believe anyone enjoys delivering bad news, but as a leader, it is part of my job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 16th, 2021