You observe that a colleague always arrives late to a weekly meeting. What would you do?

Question Analysis

This question is assessing your ability to handle workplace challenges, particularly those involving interpersonal relationships and team dynamics. It evaluates your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and how you manage potential conflicts or disruptions in a professional setting. The interviewer wants to see how you balance empathy and assertiveness while maintaining productivity and team morale.

Answer

To answer this question, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is effective:

• Situation: In our weekly team meetings, I noticed that one of my colleagues consistently arrived late, which sometimes caused delays in our agenda discussions and affected team productivity.

• Task: I felt it was important to address the issue to ensure meetings started on time and everyone was present to contribute effectively. My task was to find a way to communicate this concern without creating tension or discomfort for my colleague.

• Action: I approached my colleague privately and initiated a friendly conversation. I expressed understanding of their situation and asked if there were any issues causing the delays. I offered to help if possible and suggested that perhaps we could adjust the meeting time if that would make it easier for everyone to attend punctually.

• Result: My colleague appreciated the conversation and explained that they had a recurring commitment just before our meeting. We collaboratively adjusted the meeting time slightly, which suited everyone, and from then on, meetings started on time with full attendance. This not only improved our meeting efficiency but also strengthened our team communication and morale.

This approach demonstrates your ability to address issues diplomatically, showing empathy, and contributing to a solution that benefits the team as a whole.