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

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess your problem-solving skills, ability to address workplace issues, and how you handle interpersonal relationships. It's a common scenario that tests your ability to balance professionalism with empathy. The interviewer is looking for a structured approach to resolving conflicts or issues in a team setting.

Answer

When addressing a situation where a coworker consistently arrives late to meetings, it's important to approach the issue professionally and with empathy. Here's how you can apply the STAR method to structure your answer:

Situation:
In my previous role, we had a weekly team meeting that required everyone's timely participation. I noticed that one of my coworkers was consistently arriving late, which disrupted the flow of the meeting and affected team productivity.

Task:
My responsibility was to ensure the meetings were productive and that everyone was aligned on the team's objectives. I wanted to address the issue without creating tension or discomfort for the coworker.

Action:
I decided to have a private conversation with the coworker to understand if there were any underlying reasons for their tardiness. During the conversation, I expressed the importance of everyone's punctuality for the efficiency of our meetings. I offered support by suggesting flexible solutions, such as adjusting the meeting time or providing reminders.

Result:
The coworker appreciated the private and understanding approach. They explained a personal challenge that affected their punctuality and agreed to the suggested adjustments. As a result, their attendance improved significantly, and the team meetings became more productive and cohesive.

By addressing the issue directly and empathetically, I was able to maintain a positive working relationship while enhancing team effectiveness.