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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Tell us about a time when you had to address conflicts or disagreements between support team members.

Global Support Manager Interview Questions
Tell us about a time when you had to address conflicts or disagreements between support team members.

Sample answer to the question

One time, there was a disagreement between two team members in the support department over who should handle a particularly difficult customer issue. I gathered both team members and listened to their perspectives to understand the root of the conflict. After gaining insight into the situation, I facilitated a discussion where both parties were able to express their concerns and find common ground. We agreed to collaborate on resolving the customer issue, with each team member contributing their expertise. In the end, we successfully resolved the issue and the customer was satisfied with the outcome.

A more solid answer

During my time as a support team lead, there was a conflict within the team regarding how to handle a complex customer issue. I approached the situation by first individually discussing the concerns of each team member involved. This allowed me to understand their viewpoints and empathize with their frustrations. Next, I organized a team meeting where I facilitated an open and respectful discussion. I encouraged active listening and ensured that everyone had the opportunity to share their ideas. Together, we brainstormed potential solutions and collectively agreed on a plan of action. To help address the conflict and prevent similar situations in the future, I implemented a team-building workshop focused on effective communication and conflict resolution. This training enhanced the team's ability to work collaboratively and resolve issues proactively.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about how the candidate approached the conflict, including individual discussions and a team meeting. It also mentions the implementation of a team-building workshop to improve communication and conflict resolution skills. However, it can still be improved by providing examples of the specific solutions agreed upon and the outcome of implementing the team-building workshop.

An exceptional answer

I encountered a conflict between two support team members who had different approaches to resolving a customer issue. To address the conflict, I first scheduled one-on-one meetings with each team member to gain a comprehensive understanding of their perspectives. During these meetings, I acknowledged their concerns and provided a safe space for open dialogue. After gathering sufficient information, I organized a team meeting to discuss the conflict and present potential solutions. I encouraged active participation from everyone and facilitated a constructive conversation where we explored the merits of each approach. Ultimately, we decided to combine the strengths of both approaches and implemented a new process that incorporated elements from each team member's suggestions. Following this conflict, I recognized the need for ongoing training and development in conflict resolution. I arranged for a professional development session focused on effective communication, conflict management, and collaboration. This session equipped the team with valuable skills and strategies to address conflicts proactively and maintain a harmonious working environment.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates a high level of leadership and problem-solving skills by providing specific details about how the candidate addressed the conflict. It includes individual meetings, a team meeting, and a collaborative decision-making process that resulted in a hybrid solution. Additionally, the answer highlights the candidate's commitment to ongoing training and development in conflict resolution. An even stronger answer could further elaborate on the outcome and impact of implementing the new process and professional development session.

How to prepare for this question

  • Reflect on your past experiences where you successfully resolved conflicts or disagreements within a team.
  • Think about the specific steps you took to address the conflict, such as individual discussions or team meetings.
  • Consider the outcomes and impact of the conflict resolution process, including any implemented changes or improvements.
  • Research effective communication techniques and conflict resolution strategies to enhance your answer.
  • Highlight your ability to foster a collaborative and respectful team environment.
  • Emphasize your commitment to ongoing training and development in conflict resolution.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Leadership and management skills
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Ability to train and develop staff

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