Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a team member.

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess your conflict resolution skills and your ability to work effectively in a team. The interviewer is looking for insights into how you handle disagreements, maintain professionalism, and work towards a resolution that benefits the team. They want to see evidence of your communication skills, empathy, and ability to collaborate under challenging circumstances.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project coordinator, I was part of a team working on a high-priority project with a tight deadline. A disagreement arose with a team member regarding the approach to be taken for a critical part of the project.

Task: My responsibility was to ensure that the project progressed smoothly and that all team members were aligned in their strategies and objectives. It was crucial to resolve the disagreement quickly to avoid any delays.

Action: I initiated a one-on-one conversation with the team member to understand their perspective better. I actively listened to their concerns and shared my viewpoint as well. We both agreed to focus on the project's goals rather than personal preferences. I suggested we explore a hybrid approach, combining elements of both our ideas. We also decided to present both options to the team for feedback.

Result: The hybrid approach we developed was well-received by the team, and it led to an innovative solution that enhanced the project's outcome. The project was completed on time, and the experience strengthened our working relationship, improving overall team dynamics.