How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with colleagues in the laboratory?
Theme: Skills, Conflict Resolution Role: Medical Laboratory Scientist Function: Medical
Interview Question for Medical Laboratory Scientist: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Medical Laboratory Scientist: Perform laboratory tests and analyze results This role falls within the Medical function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Skills, Conflict Resolution with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Approach to conflicts: I believe in addressing conflicts directly and professionally. I would initiate a conversation with the colleague involved to understand their perspective and express my own. Open communication is key to resolving conflicts
- Active listening: During conflicts, I actively listen to my colleagues to understand their concerns and viewpoints. This helps me empathize with their position and find common ground for a resolution
- Seeking compromise: I believe in finding a middle ground when conflicts arise. I would propose potential solutions that accommodate both parties' needs and work towards a compromise that benefits the team
- Maintaining professionalism: In conflicts, I always maintain a professional demeanor. I avoid personal attacks and focus on the issue at hand. I strive to keep emotions in check and approach conflicts with a calm and rational mindset
- Conflict resolution skills: I have developed strong conflict resolution skills through my experience. These include active listening, effective communication, problem-solving, and negotiation. I am confident in my ability to navigate conflicts and find mutually beneficial resolutions
- Seeking mediation if needed: If a conflict cannot be resolved through direct communication, I would seek mediation from a supervisor or a neutral third party. Mediation can provide an unbiased perspective and help facilitate a fair resolution
- Learning from conflicts: I see conflicts as opportunities for growth and learning. After resolving a conflict, I reflect on the situation to identify areas for improvement. This helps me develop better strategies for preventing and managing conflicts in the future
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Conflict resolution skills: Assessing your ability to handle conflicts and disagreements in a professional manner
- Teamwork & collaboration: Evaluating your approach to working with colleagues and maintaining a positive work environment
- Communication skills: Understanding how effectively you communicate and resolve conflicts with colleagues
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Blaming others: Avoid blaming colleagues or pointing fingers when discussing conflicts
- Lack of communication skills: Avoid mentioning difficulties in communicating or collaborating with colleagues
- Inflexibility: Avoid showing an unwillingness to compromise or adapt to different perspectives
- Aggressiveness: Avoid mentioning confrontational or aggressive behavior towards colleagues
- Avoidance of conflicts: Avoid stating that conflicts are always avoided or ignored rather than addressed
- Inability to resolve conflicts: Avoid admitting an inability to find resolutions or work through conflicts effectively