Tell us about a time when you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement with a fellow veterinary team member.

Sample answer to the question

I once had a conflict with a fellow veterinary team member regarding the treatment plan for a horse. We disagreed on the course of action, as I believed the horse needed surgery while my colleague thought it could be treated with medication alone. To resolve the conflict, we decided to gather more information and consult with a senior veterinarian. We presented our arguments and the senior veterinarian helped us come to a consensus. In the end, we agreed on a combination of surgery and medication, which turned out to be the best approach for the horse's condition.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Junior Equine Veterinarian, I encountered a conflict with a fellow team member regarding the treatment plan for a horse with a complex leg injury. While I believed that surgery was necessary to ensure a successful outcome, my colleague argued for a conservative management approach with medication and stall rest. To address this conflict, we decided to hold a meeting with the senior veterinarian to present our respective cases. During the meeting, I utilized my clinical skills and problem-solving abilities to present a detailed analysis of the horse's condition, emphasizing the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option. I also actively listened to my colleague's perspective and acknowledged the value of their expertise. With effective communication and collaboration, we reached a consensus on a comprehensive treatment plan that involved a combination of surgery, medication, and rehabilitation. As a result, the horse successfully recovered and returned to its normal activities.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more detailed account of the conflict and resolution process. It highlights the candidate's specific contributions in utilizing their clinical skills, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and collaboration skills. The outcome of the situation is clearly stated, showcasing the candidate's ability to resolve conflicts effectively. However, the solid answer can still be further improved by incorporating more specific details about the candidate's time management and organizational skills, as mentioned in the job description.

An exceptional answer

As a Junior Equine Veterinarian, I encountered a conflict with a fellow team member regarding the treatment approach for a horse with a severe colic episode. My colleague proposed immediate surgical intervention, while I recommended a conservative approach with medical management and close monitoring. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I initiated an open and respectful dialogue with my colleague, understanding their concerns and perspectives. To further evaluate the case, I efficiently utilized my clinical skills and problem-solving abilities to perform a thorough physical examination, interpret diagnostic tests, and assess the horse's response to medical interventions. With a comprehensive understanding of the horse's condition and medical literature supporting my approach, I presented a well-reasoned argument to my colleague, emphasizing the potential risks and benefits of both treatment options. Importantly, I emphasized the need for timely decision-making and the importance of the horse's well-being. Through collaborative discussions and mutual respect, we reached a consensus to proceed with the conservative approach, closely monitoring the horse's progress. Ultimately, the horse responded positively to the medical management, avoiding the need for surgical intervention and making a full recovery within a few days.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates exceptional skills in conflict resolution, problem-solving abilities, clinical expertise, and effective communication. The candidate showcases their ability to efficiently gather and analyze relevant information to support their proposed treatment plan. Additionally, the candidate's emphasis on collaboration, timely decision-making, and the horse's well-being reflects their strong values and professionalism as a veterinary team member. The outcome of the situation further strengthens their credibility and showcases their ability to make sound judgments. The answer aligns with the job description by highlighting the candidate's clinical skills, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and collaboration skills. However, to further enhance the answer, the candidate can provide more specific examples highlighting their time management and organizational skills during the conflict resolution process.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you had conflicts or disagreements with fellow team members and consider the outcomes.
Highlight your clinical skills specific to equine care, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and collaboration skills in your answer.
Emphasize the importance of patient well-being and demonstrate a patient-centered approach in conflict resolution.
Provide specific examples and details about your role, actions, and the outcomes of conflicts or disagreements.
Consider how conflicts or disagreements can be opportunities for growth and improvement, both professionally and in the context of a veterinary team.

What interviewers are evaluating

Clinical skills specific to equine care
Problem-solving abilities
Communication skills
Collaboration skills