How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within a multidisciplinary team?

JUNIOR LEVEL
How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within a multidisciplinary team?
Sample answer to the question:
When conflicts or disagreements arise within a multidisciplinary team, I believe in open communication and active listening. I strive to understand all perspectives and find common ground. In my previous position, there was a disagreement between the nephrology team and the social work team regarding a patient's treatment plan. I scheduled a meeting with both teams to discuss the issue and encouraged everyone to share their concerns. Through respectful dialogue, we were able to reach a compromise that satisfied all parties involved. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration and seeking input from all team members.
Here is a more solid answer:
When conflicts or disagreements arise within a multidisciplinary team, I employ a three-step approach: communication, active listening, and collaboration. In a previous role, our nephrology team had differing opinions with the social work team regarding a patient's treatment plan. I facilitated a meeting where each team member had the opportunity to voice their concerns and perspectives. By actively listening and seeking to understand their viewpoints, I was able to identify common ground and propose a compromise that addressed everyone's concerns. This experience reinforced the importance of effective communication and collaboration in resolving conflicts within a multidisciplinary team.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer provides a clear three-step approach to handling conflicts within a multidisciplinary team. It also includes a specific example of a conflict situation and highlights the candidate's ability to actively listen and collaborate. To further improve, the answer could include more details on the outcome of the conflict resolution.
An example of a exceptional answer:
Handling conflicts within a multidisciplinary team requires effective communication, active listening, collaboration, and a focus on achieving the best outcome for the patient. In my previous role, there was a conflict between the nephrology team and the social work team regarding a patient's treatment plan. To address the situation, I scheduled a meeting where I encouraged each team member to express their concerns and perspectives. Through active listening and empathetic communication, I was able to understand the underlying issues and facilitate a discussion to find common ground. We reached a consensus on a revised treatment plan that took into account the patient's medical needs and the social work team's concerns. This experience taught me the importance of maintaining a patient-centered approach while fostering a collaborative environment within the team.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer provides a comprehensive approach to handling conflicts within a multidisciplinary team. It highlights the candidate's focus on achieving the best outcome for the patient, as well as their ability to actively listen, empathize, and facilitate a discussion. The answer also emphasizes the importance of a patient-centered approach and fostering a collaborative environment. To further enhance the answer, the candidate could include specific details about the outcome of the conflict resolution and how it positively impacted patient care.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences where you have successfully resolved conflicts within a team.
  • Practice active listening and empathetic communication skills.
  • Familiarize yourself with effective conflict resolution strategies and techniques.
  • Understand the importance of a patient-centered approach in resolving conflicts within a multidisciplinary team.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Collaboration
  • Communication
  • Conflict resolution

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