Have you ever had an issue with a supervisor? How did you handle it?
This question allows you to share an example of how you dealt with a difficult situation between you and your supervisor, highlighting your communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills. Maybe the issue was in their management style or lack of leadership. Or perhaps the problem was a misunderstanding between the two of you. Whatever the cause, remember this helpful hint: the only thing you can control is YOU. No matter the circumstances at work, you can control your reaction. Taking this fact to heart will help you throughout your career.
"During my internship, I had a supervisor who was extremely uptight and not much of a people person. It was difficult to understand what he wanted from me at times because he would get frustrated with my work after he instructed me to do something. I approached him calmly one day and asked him if we could chat. I let him know I was doing my best, but I felt like there was a disconnect, as I was not performing to his standards. I asked him if I was misunderstanding his requests and what I could do to improve. He appreciated my approach, and we resolved the issue by simply learning to communicate better."
"I worked part-time as a server while pursuing my degree. While I had a great personal relationship with my supervisor, there were times when important corporate sales incentives weren't communicated to us in a timely manner, and customers would end up informing me of them. I approached my supervisor each time and would ask him if we had a particular special running that I wasn't aware of. After about the third time doing this, he apologized and assured me that all corporate specials would be posted to a board by our wait station. This immensely helped all of our wait staff moving forward."
"You'll quickly find that I am a very easygoing employee open to constructive feedback at any time. The only issue I've ever had with a supervisor in my career was with one who was reluctant to give feedback. As we were training on a new EMR system, I approached my supervisor to ask for regular weekly meetings following the new system implementation so I could receive feedback on my use of the new system. My supervisor agreed and understood my view of wanting to use it as best as possible."
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
Yes. When I was new in the OR, the learning curve was exceptionally steep. My supervisor at the time was getting frustrated with me and would complain about me to others but never face to face. I would get called into the managers' office, so I had to ask for help on how to approach my supervisor. With time, experience, and direction, I learned how to be more efficient. I asked my supervisor what else she needed before I ever left a room. And I asked her how I could be better in the future. I've never been called in the manager's office since and we have a good relationship now.
Alexandra's Feedback
Great answer! If I were the interviewer I would follow up to ask who did you ask for help on how to approach your supervisor? Did you address the problem directly or just work hard to improve? Overall, great answer showing how you learned and grew as an employee!
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