Tell me about a time a teammate's actions led to unexpected results. What did you do about it?

This question aims to explore your problem-solving, adaptability, and team collaboration skills. When an interviewer asks you about a time a teammate's actions led to unexpected results, they are looking to learn about how you handle unexpected circumstances, specifically those that stem from someone else's actions. They also want to understand your interpersonal skills and how you handle the situation whether you confronted the person or talked through the issue to achieve a resolution. So, it's crucial to highlight your role in resolving the issue, your reaction, and your problem-solving skills.

To answer this question, follow these steps:

• Describe a brief context of when the situation occurred.
• Explain what the teammate’s actions were and why they were unexpected.
• State the impact of the teammate's actions on the project or team.
• Describe how you addressed the situation, what actions you took, and why.
• Explain the ultimate outcome, highlighting any lessons learned or how the experience improved your teamwork or problem-solving skills.

In my previous role as a project manager at XYZ Company, I was in charge of a team developing a new software product. Midway through the project, a teammate, without discussing with the team, decided to make significant changes to the coding, thinking it would enhance the product. This resulted in an unexpected setback, causing system instability and project delay.

I immediately noticed the mishap and pulled the teammate aside. I calmly explained the effect of his actions on the project and rest of the team. Specifically, I pointed out how it disrupted our timeline and caused instability in the system we were developing.

We then worked together to rectify the modifications made and bring the project back on track. The experience underscored the importance of effective communication within the team. It became a learning point for all of us, and we eventually completed the project successfully, albeit a little behind schedule.

While working as an assistant manager in a restaurant, a coworker decided to drastically alter the layout of the dining area, thinking it would improve the flow of service. It resulted in disarray, and patrons complained about the confusion it caused. Notifying the manager would have taken up more time, hence I took the initiative to address it.

I sat down with my teammate, expressing understanding for their intent, but also explaining the negative impact of their hasty decision. I proposed that we immediately reorganize the dining area to its original setup to avoid further upset amongst our customers.

To avoid such inconsistencies in the future, we introduced a procedural change where any alterations needed to be discussed in team meetings before implementation. As a result, our team communication improved, we avoided impromptu disruptions, and we achieved better service flow.