Describe a situation where you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement within a team.

JUNIOR LEVEL
Describe a situation where you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement within a team.
Sample answer to the question:
In my previous job as a healthcare coordinator, I was part of a team responsible for implementing a new care management program for patients with chronic conditions. During the planning phase, there was a conflict between two team members regarding the best approach to engage patients in the program. One team member believed in using phone calls as the primary mode of communication, while the other favored email and text messages. To resolve the conflict, I facilitated a team meeting where both team members presented their arguments and supporting evidence. We then had an open discussion, allowing everyone to express their opinions and concerns. After considering the pros and cons of each approach, we reached a consensus to adopt a multi-channel communication strategy, including phone calls, emails, and text messages, based on patient preferences. This solution ensured that we could effectively reach and engage a diverse patient population, leading to successful implementation of the care management program.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my previous role as a healthcare coordinator, our team faced a conflict when deciding on the best approach to engage patients in a new care management program. One team member advocated for using phone calls, citing the importance of personal connection, while another team member preferred email and text messages, emphasizing convenience and efficiency. As the team lead, I recognized the importance of finding a solution that would meet the needs of both patients and team members. To resolve the conflict, I scheduled a team meeting dedicated to discussing the issue. Each team member presented their arguments and supporting evidence, and we had an open and respectful discussion. I encouraged active listening and ensured that everyone had an opportunity to express their opinions and concerns. After considering the pros and cons of each approach, we reached a consensus to adopt a multi-channel communication strategy. This approach allowed us to accommodate patient preferences while maintaining efficiency in reaching a larger patient population. We implemented the program using a combination of phone calls, emails, and text messages. The resolution of the conflict had a positive impact on the team dynamics, as everyone felt heard and valued. It also resulted in the successful implementation of the care management program and improved patient engagement.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer provides more specific details about the conflict, the conflict resolution process, and the impact of the resolution on the team and the project. It highlights the candidate's role as a team lead and their ability to facilitate open and respectful discussions. However, it can still be improved by discussing the specific outcomes and metrics that were achieved as a result of the successful implementation of the care management program.
An example of a exceptional answer:
During my previous role as a healthcare coordinator, our team encountered a conflict regarding the communication approach for a new care management program. One team member believed in the power of personal connection through phone calls, emphasizing the importance of building trust and rapport with patients. On the other hand, another team member advocated for using email and text messages to reach a larger patient population efficiently. Recognizing the significance of patient engagement and team collaboration, I took the initiative to address the conflict proactively. I facilitated a team meeting, ensuring that all views were heard and respected. We conducted a brainstorming session, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each communication method. By analyzing existing patient data and discussing team members' experiences, we identified the need for a multi-channel communication strategy that would cater to individual patient preferences. This solution included personalized phone calls for patients who valued human interaction, while leveraging technology for automated email and text message reminders. We also developed metrics to measure patient engagement, such as response rates and utilization of care management services. The outcome of our resolution was transformative. We successfully implemented the care management program and saw a significant increase in patient participation and adherence to care plans. The conflict resolution process improved the team's collaboration and communication skills, allowing us to not only achieve our goals but also surpass them. Through open dialogue and data-driven decision-making, we created an environment of trust, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer provides a more detailed and comprehensive description of the conflict resolution process. It demonstrates the candidate's proactive approach to addressing conflicts, their ability to facilitate brainstorming sessions, and their focus on data-driven decision-making. It also highlights the specific outcomes and metrics achieved as a result of the conflict resolution, showing the candidate's impact on the team's performance and the successful implementation of the care management program.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Familiarize yourself with different conflict resolution strategies and approaches, such as collaborative problem-solving and consensus-building.
  • Reflect on past experiences where you successfully resolved conflicts within a team and consider the specific impact of the resolution on the project or team dynamics.
  • Practice active listening and effective communication skills, as they are essential for facilitating open and respectful discussions during conflict resolution.
  • Consider the role of data and evidence in decision-making. Think about how you can leverage data to support your arguments and reach a consensus.
  • Demonstrate your ability to balance different perspectives and find solutions that meet the needs of all stakeholders.
  • Highlight the positive outcomes and metrics achieved as a result of your conflict resolution skills, such as improved team collaboration, project success, or measurable performance improvements.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Collaboration and Communication
  • Problem-Solving
  • Decision-Making

Want content like this in your inbox?
Sign Up for our Newsletter

By clicking "Sign up" you consent and agree to Jobya's Terms & Privacy policies

Related Interview Questions