Tell me how you get information from an unresponsive coworker

Interviews are not just about showcasing your skills and experiences; they’re also about demonstrating how you handle challenging situations. A common question interviewers ask is, “Tell me about a time you needed to get information from someone who wasn’t very responsive. What did you do?” This question is critical as it reveals your problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Why Do Interviewers Ask This Question?

Interviewers are interested in how you navigate workplace challenges, particularly in communication and collaboration. They want to assess:

• Your initiative in dealing with difficult situations.
• Your ability to communicate effectively and assertively.
• How you maintain professionalism under stress.
• Your problem-solving and negotiation skills.

The STAR Method: Structuring Your Answer

The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is an excellent way to structure your response to behavioral interview questions. It ensures clarity and conciseness, providing a comprehensive narrative of your experience.

Situation

Start by setting the context. Describe the scenario where you needed to get information from an unresponsive colleague or stakeholder.

Task

Explain what your responsibility was in that situation and why you needed the information.

Action

Detail the steps you took to get the required information. This is where you highlight your communication and problem-solving skills.

Result

Conclude with the outcome. What happened as a result of your actions?

Example Answers

Example 1: The Proactive Approach

• Situation: “In my last role as a project manager, I was coordinating a team where one engineer was notoriously slow in responding to emails, delaying our progress.”
• Task: “I needed his technical input for a client proposal we were drafting.”
• Action: “I scheduled a short face-to-face meeting with him to discuss the urgency and importance of the proposal. I also offered to assist with any workload challenges he was facing.”
• Result: “He appreciated the direct communication and provided the necessary input the same day. This not only helped us meet our proposal deadline but also improved our future interactions.”

Example 2: Creative Communication

• Situation: “While working as a marketing analyst, I needed weekly updates from a sales manager who was often traveling and hard to reach.”
• Task: “The updates were crucial for our marketing strategies.”
• Action: “I proposed a system of regular brief updates through a shared mobile app, allowing for more flexible communication.”
• Result: “The manager was able to provide timely updates more consistently, enhancing the effectiveness of our marketing campaigns.”

Takeaway Messages

• Initiative and Adaptability: Show that you can take the initiative and adapt your communication approach to different people and situations.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrate your ability to find solutions to interpersonal and communication challenges.
• Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor in your interactions, even in challenging situations.

Answering this question effectively can significantly impact your interview’s success, showcasing your ability to navigate complex professional scenarios with tact and efficiency.