A coworker continues to arrive late to the scheduled meeting each week. What should be done?

Question Analysis

The question is asking how you would handle a situation where a coworker consistently arrives late to meetings. It's a behavioral question that tests your interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and professionalism. The interviewer wants to understand how you address recurring issues, communicate with colleagues, and maintain team productivity.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role, we had a weekly team meeting that was critical for coordinating our efforts. One of my teammates consistently arrived late, which disrupted the flow of the meeting and caused us to lose valuable time.

Task: I wanted to find a way to address this issue without causing any discomfort or conflict, ensuring that our meetings could proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Action: I approached my coworker privately after one of our meetings. I expressed understanding and asked if there were any particular reasons for their tardiness. It turned out that another meeting often ran late, making it difficult for them to be on time. Together, we discussed possible solutions, including adjusting our meeting time slightly to accommodate their schedule. I also suggested setting reminders.

Result: My coworker appreciated the understanding approach and agreed to try the suggested solutions. We adjusted the meeting time, and since then, they have been punctual. This not only improved our meeting efficiency but also strengthened our team dynamics and communication.