I want to hear about a time when you had to work together on a project with a coworker who you didn't like.

Question Analysis

This behavioral interview question aims to assess your ability to work collaboratively, even in situations where you may not personally get along with a colleague. It tests your interpersonal skills, adaptability, problem-solving ability, and professionalism. The interviewer is interested in how you handle conflict or personal differences in a work setting and whether you prioritize the team's success over personal feelings.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role at XYZ Company, I was assigned to work on a high-profile project with a coworker with whom I had frequent disagreements. We had different working styles and often found ourselves in conflict over how to approach tasks.

Task: Our task was to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for a new product launch. It was crucial for us to deliver a cohesive and effective strategy to meet the tight deadline and ensure the product's success in the market.

Action: Recognizing the importance of the project, I decided to initiate an open and honest conversation with my coworker. I suggested that we focus on our shared goals rather than our differences. We agreed to divide the project tasks based on our strengths and set up regular check-ins to ensure alignment. I made a conscious effort to actively listen to their ideas and provide constructive feedback.

Result: As a result of our improved communication and collaboration, we successfully developed a marketing strategy that was well-received by the management. The product launch exceeded initial sales expectations, and our teamwork was acknowledged as a key factor in its success. Through this experience, I learned the value of setting aside personal differences to achieve a common goal and how effective communication can enhance team dynamics.