Tell me about a time when you had to finish a project with someone you didn't get along with.

Question Analysis

This question is asking you to describe a past experience where you successfully completed a project despite having a challenging relationship with a team member. The interviewer wants to assess your ability to work collaboratively, handle conflict, and maintain professionalism in difficult situations. It's essential to highlight your conflict resolution skills, adaptability, and focus on achieving results.

Answer

Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, I was assigned to lead a critical project with a tight deadline. One team member, Alex, and I had a history of disagreements due to differing working styles and communication preferences.

Task: Despite our differences, it was crucial to collaborate effectively to meet the project's objectives and deliver results on time.

Action: I initiated a one-on-one meeting with Alex to discuss our working relationship and identify ways we could improve our collaboration. During this conversation, I actively listened to Alex's concerns and shared my own, focusing on finding common ground. We agreed to set clear communication protocols and regular check-ins to ensure alignment throughout the project.

Result: By addressing our differences openly and establishing a mutual understanding, we were able to work together more effectively. The project was completed on schedule, and our improved teamwork contributed to a successful outcome. This experience taught me the importance of proactive communication and flexibility when working with diverse personalities.