How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with colleagues or other healthcare professionals?
Theme: Conflict Resolution Role: Physical Therapist Function: Medical
Interview Question for Physical Therapist: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Physical Therapist: Help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility 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 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 open and honest communication when dealing with conflicts or disagreements. I strive to address issues directly and respectfully, seeking to understand the other person's perspective
- Active listening: I actively listen to my colleagues or healthcare professionals involved in the conflict, allowing them to express their concerns and opinions without interruption. This helps me gain a better understanding of their viewpoint
- Seeking common ground: I try to find common ground or shared goals with my colleagues or healthcare professionals to foster collaboration and resolve conflicts. By focusing on our shared objectives, we can work towards a mutually beneficial solution
- Problem-solving: I approach conflicts with a problem-solving mindset. I analyze the situation, identify the underlying issues, and propose potential solutions. I am open to feedback and willing to compromise to reach a resolution
- Mediation & diplomacy: If conflicts escalate or become complex, I am willing to act as a mediator or seek assistance from a supervisor or higher authority. I believe in maintaining professionalism and diplomacy throughout the conflict resolution process
- Learning from conflicts: I view conflicts as opportunities for growth and learning. After resolving a conflict, I reflect on the experience, identify areas for improvement, and strive to enhance my communication and collaboration skills
- Maintaining relationships: Regardless of the outcome, I make an effort to maintain positive relationships with my colleagues or healthcare professionals involved in the conflict. I understand the importance of teamwork and the impact it has on patient care
- Conflict prevention: To minimize conflicts, I proactively establish clear lines of communication, set expectations, and encourage open dialogue within the healthcare team. I believe that prevention is key to maintaining a harmonious work environment
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Interpersonal skills: Assessing how well you can handle conflicts and disagreements with colleagues or other healthcare professionals
- Teamwork: Evaluating your ability to work collaboratively and maintain positive relationships in a healthcare setting
- Conflict resolution: Determining your approach to resolving conflicts and finding common ground with others
- Professionalism: Examining your professionalism and ability to maintain a respectful and constructive attitude in challenging situations
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Blaming others: Avoid blaming others for conflicts or disagreements as it shows a lack of accountability and teamwork
- Lack of communication skills: Avoid mentioning difficulties in effectively communicating with colleagues or healthcare professionals as it raises concerns about collaboration and patient care
- Inflexibility: Avoid indicating an unwillingness to compromise or adapt to different perspectives, as it suggests difficulty in working as part of a team
- Aggressiveness: Avoid displaying aggressive or confrontational behavior when dealing with conflicts, as it raises concerns about professionalism and patient safety
- Avoidance: Avoid mentioning a tendency to avoid conflicts altogether, as it may indicate an inability to address and resolve issues effectively