How to Answer: Talk about a time where you faced difficulty reaching a consensus in a time sensitive situation.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Entry-Level Manager job interview.
10. Talk about a time where you faced difficulty reaching a consensus in a time sensitive situation.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some new managers end up struggling with asserting themselves in work environments that have more of a democratic approach, and where efforts are made to make sure everyone's voice is heard. The interviewer wants to see how capable you are at acting decisively, without taking an autocratic approach. They need to see that you can lead with confidence while engaging your team and retaining their trust. As Michelle Obama put it, "People who are truly strong lift others up. People who are truly powerful bring others together." So think about a time when members of your team voiced doubt about the approach you wanted to take as a leader. Showcase your strong communication skills, and how you got everyone to adopt your approach.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 27th, 2024
Answer Example
"There was a morning where things were going really well. One employee had a personal conflict that was causing them a certain degree of stress, and they were advocating for being allowed to get off work early since things seemed to be going so smoothly. I assured them if everything continued to go well, and our schedule allowed for it, I would consider it. So they put in a maximum effort. But, later, we got word our last delivery truck wouldn't be arriving at the warehouse until after our shift ended. So, when I suggested we take on several of the mid-shifts duties to ensure they would be able to shift priorities and handle the shipment, this employee voiced dissent, and got another employee aligned with their arguments. Despite their arguments, it was clear their true motive was getting off work early, despite how it would impact our other teams. So, I gave a speech about how we always help out our teams, even those teammates we don't see or often work with, and we always do the right thing. Otherwise, we shouldn't expect them to repay the favor in our hour of need. This rallied most of the team, and we took a vote, and when that single employee was the only dissenter, they fell silent and got to work."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 27th, 2024