Describe a meaningful disagreement with someone you still needed to work with closely. Show how you understood their concerns, adjusted your own approach, reached a sound decision, and preserved collaboration regardless of whose proposal prevailed.
## Question
Describe a time you had to work closely with someone who disagreed with your approach. How did you understand their concerns, decide what to do, and continue collaborating after the disagreement?
### Constraints & Assumptions
- Choose a meaningful disagreement with ongoing collaboration.
- Do not assume compromise is always the correct result.
- Explain your own adjustment, not only the other person's change.
- Include the outcome for the work and relationship.
### Clarifying Questions to Ask
- Would you prefer a peer, manager, or cross-functional example?
- Is it acceptable if the other approach was ultimately chosen?
- Should I emphasize technical evidence or communication?
```hint Preserve the shared goal
Make the decision criteria visible and show how both people could commit even if only one approach shipped.
```
### What a Strong Answer Covers
- Fair representation of both positions and the shared objective.
- Direct conversation, evidence, and a clear decision owner.
- Respectful commitment after the decision.
- A concrete result and relationship follow-through.
- Learning about the candidate's own blind spot.
### Follow-up Questions
1. What did you change your mind about?
2. When would you stop seeking consensus?
3. How did you prevent resentment after the decision?
Quick Answer: Describe a meaningful disagreement with someone you still needed to work with closely. Show how you understood their concerns, adjusted your own approach, reached a sound decision, and preserved collaboration regardless of whose proposal prevailed.
Describe a time you had to work closely with someone who disagreed with your approach. How did you understand their concerns, decide what to do, and continue collaborating after the disagreement?
Constraints & Assumptions
Choose a meaningful disagreement with ongoing collaboration.
Do not assume compromise is always the correct result.
Explain your own adjustment, not only the other person's change.
Include the outcome for the work and relationship.
Clarifying Questions to Ask Guidance
Would you prefer a peer, manager, or cross-functional example?
Is it acceptable if the other approach was ultimately chosen?
Should I emphasize technical evidence or communication?
What a Strong Answer Covers Guidance
Fair representation of both positions and the shared objective.
Direct conversation, evidence, and a clear decision owner.
Respectful commitment after the decision.
A concrete result and relationship follow-through.
Learning about the candidate's own blind spot.
Follow-up Questions Guidance
What did you change your mind about?
When would you stop seeking consensus?
How did you prevent resentment after the decision?