How do you handle disagreements with colleagues or opposing counsel in a professional manner?

Sample answer to the question

When faced with disagreements with colleagues or opposing counsel, I believe in approaching the situation with professionalism and open-mindedness. I start by actively listening to their perspective and understanding their reasoning behind it. I then share my own viewpoint, presenting it in a calm and respectful manner. I believe in finding common ground and exploring possible solutions together. If the disagreement persists, I am willing to engage in constructive dialogue and seek guidance from supervisors or mentors to find a resolution. Overall, I prioritize maintaining a positive and collaborative working relationship while upholding ethical and legal standards.

A more solid answer

When faced with disagreements with colleagues or opposing counsel, I have developed a systematic approach to address conflicts in a professional manner. Firstly, I ensure that I have a thorough understanding of the opposing viewpoint by actively listening and asking clarifying questions. This allows me to empathize with their perspective and demonstrate my open-mindedness. Next, I present my own viewpoint by articulating it clearly and providing supporting evidence or legal precedents when applicable. I prioritize maintaining a respectful and constructive tone throughout the discussion. If the disagreement persists, I am flexible in exploring alternative solutions and compromise. In cases where resolution seems challenging, I seek guidance from supervisors or mentors to gain additional insights and perspectives. I believe in upholding ethical behavior and prioritizing the best interests of all parties involved.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer builds on the basic answer by providing a more detailed and structured approach to handling disagreements. It includes specific strategies such as active listening, presenting clear arguments, and seeking guidance when needed. However, it could benefit from incorporating concrete examples from the candidate's past experiences.

An exceptional answer

Throughout my career as a labor attorney, I have encountered numerous disagreements with colleagues and opposing counsel. In one instance, I was working on a labor dispute case where the opposing counsel strongly disagreed with our client's position. Instead of engaging in a confrontational exchange, I proactively scheduled a meeting with the opposing counsel to discuss the points of contention in detail. During the meeting, I actively listened to their concerns, ensuring they felt heard and respected. I then presented our client's viewpoint by analyzing relevant statutes, case law, and industry practices. I remained calm and composed, fostering a constructive atmosphere. By acknowledging common ground and emphasizing shared goals, we were able to reach a compromise that satisfied both parties. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of open communication and collaboration in handling disagreements professionally.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a specific and impactful example from the candidate's past experiences. It demonstrates their ability to handle disagreements effectively and achieve positive outcomes. The candidate showcases their strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills. The example also highlights their ethical behavior and commitment to maintaining professional relationships. The only room for improvement would be to include another example or two to further strengthen the answer.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you have successfully managed disagreements with colleagues or opposing counsel. Identify the strategies and approaches that worked well for you.
Research effective conflict resolution techniques, such as active listening, assertive communication, and problem-solving.
Familiarize yourself with common labor-related disputes and the legal frameworks surrounding them. This will help you provide relevant and well-informed arguments during disagreements.
Practice presenting your viewpoints in a clear and concise manner, providing supporting evidence or legal precedents when applicable.
Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or mentors on your conflict resolution skills and areas for improvement.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong negotiation and communication skills
Ability to handle conflicts in a professional manner
Ethical behavior
Open-mindedness