In brief: Establishing effective communication in the workplace is vital for a worker’s performance and essential in today’s competitive market.
Employers value interpersonal skills, also known as personal communication skills, when hiring employees. One question that can help assess these qualities is, “How do others describe you?”
During the interview, the interviewer and the company aim to evaluate not only the candidate’s relevant experience and knowledge but also whether they possess the necessary complementary skills for the job.
To gain insights into the candidate’s lifestyle, psyche, personal traits, and general attitude, the interviewer may ask questions related to how friends and colleagues would describe the interviewee and their relationship with co-workers.
We will discuss the best way to answer the job interview question: “What was your relationship with co-workers?” or “What would your co-workers say about you?”
1. Effective Strategies for Describing Your Relationship with Co-workers in Interviews
To provide a focused response, keep in mind the requirements of the position you are applying for and the kind of person the company is seeking.
You can divide your answer into two parts:
1. Communication Skills:
“Colleagues who have worked closely with me or on my team would describe me as friendly, loyal, cooperative, attentive, respectful, honest, empathetic, caring, and always willing to go the extra mile to help.
People I have supervised would describe me as a supportive coach, attentive listener, strong advocate for their performance, goal-oriented, and someone they are willing to follow.”
2. Other Strengths in Managing/Working Style:
“My co-workers and friends would describe me as a hard worker, determined, good planner, professional, flexible, tolerant, and quick learner.”
2. More Suggested Ways to Answer: Your Relationship with Your Co-workers? Interview Question
Company work is a collective effort, requiring individuals to interact effectively with various types of people in order to succeed professionally. Research has shown that relationships between co-workers are closely tied to job performance.
As a result, interviewers often ask about your relationship with co-workers and teammates to assess your ability to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
They want to ensure that you are comfortable collaborating with others.
Evaluating the Company Atmosphere
To provide an appropriate answer, it is important to evaluate the atmosphere of the interviewing company. Determine whether it is informal, semi-formal, or formal. This assessment will help you frame your response accordingly.
1. Positive Approach:
When answering this question, it is advisable to speak positively about your co-workers while acknowledging the possibility of negative aspects.
Here is a suggested answer:
- “I had an excellent professional relationship with my co-workers, which aligned well with the company’s environment. We fostered a collaborative atmosphere where people supported each other. We worked together as a team to solve problems and acquire new skills to achieve our objectives.”
Here are some specific examples of things you could say when answering this question:
- “My colleagues would describe me as a hard worker who is always willing to go the extra mile. I’m also known for being a team player who is always willing to help out my colleagues.”
- “I’m known for being a good communicator who is able to clearly articulate my ideas. I’m also good at listening to others and understanding their perspectives.”
- “I’m a positive person who is always willing to help out. I’m also known for being a good listener and for being able to build rapport with others.”
2. Highlighting Professional Connections
Emphasize the professional connections you have developed with your co-workers.
For example:
“I have formed lasting friendships with some of my co-workers, who can vouch for my professional capabilities.”
3. Focus on Job Performance not personal relationships
It is important to note that personal relationships and social interactions with co-workers, such as having fun or enjoying social activities together, are not relevant to discuss as they do not directly correlate with job performance.
By considering the company atmosphere, emphasizing positive professional relationships, and focusing on your job performance and teamwork, you can provide a strong answer to the question about your relationship with co-workers.
3. Tips: How Would Your Past Co-workers Describe You?
Here are some tips to help you answer this question effectively:
1. Be Confident: Project confidence and avoid sounding unsure or uncertain about how your colleagues would describe you. Instead of starting your answer with “I think my colleagues would say,” express your certainty.
2. Be Professional: When asked about how your friends would describe you, remember that the interviewer is likely more interested in your colleagues’ perspectives.
Keep the description focused on your professional qualities and avoid incorporating personal factors like being jovial, adventurous, or easy to get along with.
3. Be Concise: When describing how your co-workers would perceive you, provide a concise response without being ambiguous.
Remember that the interviewer could potentially be your future supervisor, so it is important to offer a thoughtful and clear description of how you believe your colleagues would describe you.
4. Be Factual: It is crucial to provide factual and truthful information when answering this or any other interview question. Avoid sharing information that is not true, as it may be discovered later during the hiring process. Remember that much of this information can be cross-checked, and it may even influence decisions made about your candidacy.
Additionally, consider that these questions may also be asked about your referrals, so it is advisable to provide information that is agreeable to all parties involved.
By addressing this question with confidence, professionalism, conciseness, and factual information, you can effectively showcase your interpersonal skills and leave a positive impression on the interviewer.
4. The Importance of Interpersonal Skills in the Workplace
Establishing good communication and fostering positive relationships with colleagues is crucial in today’s competitive job market.
Interpersonal skills, also known as personal communication skills, play a significant role in effective workplace performance. Employers recognize the value of these skills as they contribute to a harmonious work environment, enhanced collaboration, and increased productivity.
Strong interpersonal skills encompass various abilities, such as: active listening, empathy, adaptability, conflict resolution, and teamwork.
These skills enable individuals to interact effectively with coworkers, build trust, and create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
Candidates who demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills during job interviews are often viewed as valuable assets to the organization.
1. The Impact of Positive Relationships on Job Performance
Research has consistently shown that positive relationships among coworkers have a direct impact on job performance.
When colleagues have strong working relationships, they are more likely to collaborate seamlessly, share knowledge and expertise, and support one another’s professional growth.
This synergy leads to improved problem-solving, increased innovation, and better overall team performance.
Furthermore, positive relationships in the workplace contribute to employee satisfaction and engagement.
When individuals feel connected to their colleagues and have a sense of belonging, they are more motivated, productive, and committed to their work.
Employers recognize the significance of fostering positive relationships among their employees, as it creates a conducive environment for individual and organizational success.
2. Building Strong Relationships in the Workplace
Developing and maintaining strong relationships with coworkers requires effort and intention. Here are a few strategies to cultivate positive connections:
a. Effective Communication: Actively listen to others, express your thoughts and ideas clearly, and be open to feedback. Clear and respectful communication fosters understanding and prevents misunderstandings.
b. Collaboration and Teamwork: Encourage collaboration by actively participating in team projects, offering support to colleagues, and recognizing and appreciating their contributions. By working together towards common goals, strong bonds can be formed.
c. Empathy and Understanding: Show empathy towards your coworkers by understanding their perspectives, being supportive during challenging times, and acknowledging their accomplishments.
Empathy builds trust and enhances relationships.
d. Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts or disagreements in a constructive manner.
Seek mutually beneficial solutions, engage in active dialogue, and practice compromise when necessary. Resolving conflicts positively strengthens relationships.
e. Networking and Socializing: Participate in team-building activities, social events, and networking opportunities within the organization.
These activities provide opportunities to connect with colleagues on a more personal level and strengthen relationships outside of work tasks.
By proactively applying these strategies, you can foster strong relationships with coworkers, creating a positive work environment and contributing to your own goals and the organization’s success.
To conclude, when answering questions about your relationship with co-workers during job interviews, focus on highlighting your positive attributes, emphasizing professional connections, and demonstrating your commitment to effective communication and collaboration.