Blog > Disagreement with Supervisor Interview Question

May 29th, 2022

Disagreeing with a supervisor during an interview is never easy. It’s a tricky situation that requires a lot of finesse and diplomacy. Demonstrating one’s ability to handle such a situation can be an opportunity to showcase analytical and communication skills, but it can also be a double-edged sword.

First things first, let’s consider why an interviewer might ask this question. They are likely looking for evidence of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. The interviewer is interested in understanding a candidate’s approach to conflict resolution, particularly when it comes to dealing with someone in a position of authority.

In answering this question, it is important to keep a few things in mind. Here are some tips to help navigate this tricky question:

1. Choose an example carefully: It’s crucial to choose an example that is not only relevant but also highlights one’s skills. The example should also be a situation where the candidate had a legitimate reason to disagree with the supervisor.

2. Focus on the positive outcome: The interviewer is more interested in how the situation was handled rather than the disagreement itself. Therefore, the candidate should explain how they approached the situation, whether they attempted to resolve the issue before it escalated, and how the disagreement was resolved in a productive manner.

3. Avoid blaming or bad-mouthing: Even if the supervisor was wrong, it’s important not to throw them under the bus. It’s better to frame the disagreement in a way that emphasizes solutions rather than problems.

4. Show professionalism: The candidate should show that they remain professional and respectful throughout the disagreement. They should demonstrate that they are able to work well with others, even when there is a disagreement.

5. Use the right language and tone: The candidate should be careful not to come across as too aggressive or confrontational. It’s important to use a calm and diplomatic tone in discussing the situation and explaining their viewpoint.

To sum up, the key to answering the question about disagreement with a supervisor during an interview is to remain positive, professional, and diplomatic. The candidate should focus on the outcome and how they approached the situation, rather than the disagreement itself. By demonstrating their ability to handle such situations with tact and diplomacy, the candidate can show their potential employer that they are a valuable team player who can work well under pressure.