What would you do if a co-worker constantly arrives late to a weekly scheduled meeting?

Question Analysis

This question is a behavioral question that seeks to understand how you handle situations involving team dynamics and punctuality. The interviewer is interested in your ability to address recurring issues professionally, your communication skills, and your capability to maintain a productive work environment. They are looking for evidence of problem-solving skills, diplomacy, and your ability to foster a culture of accountability and respect.

Answer

Situation: In a previous role, I noticed that a co-worker was consistently late to our weekly team meetings, which affected the team's productivity and caused frustration among other team members.

Task: I wanted to address the issue without causing conflict, ensure the co-worker understood the importance of punctuality, and help maintain a respectful and efficient team environment.

Action: I decided to approach the situation by having a private, informal conversation with my co-worker. I expressed understanding of any personal challenges they might be facing and shared how their lateness was impacting the team. I asked if there was anything I could do to help them be on time or if they had any suggestions on how we could adjust the meeting schedule to better accommodate everyone.

Result: The co-worker appreciated my approach and explained they were having difficulty with a prior commitment that occasionally overlapped with our meeting time. We agreed to adjust the meeting start time slightly, which resolved the issue. Subsequently, they were punctual for future meetings, and the team's productivity improved. This approach not only resolved the immediate issue but also strengthened our working relationship and enhanced team cohesion.