Resolving Interpersonal Conflict Flashcards
7 cards from real Situational Judgement Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Resolving Interpersonal Conflict flashcards as text
A conflict between you and a peer has been referred to formal mediation. During the session, the mediator asks you to state your needs. You should:
Answer: Focus on your core interests and what outcome would make the working relationship functional
Stating core interests rather than grievances or positions gives the mediator information needed to find mutually acceptable solutions.
Your team uses a shared inbox, and a colleague regularly responds to messages meant for you without your knowledge, causing client confusion. The best action is to:
Answer: Speak with the colleague privately to agree on clear response protocols
A private conversation to establish clear role boundaries resolves the root cause without damaging team dynamics.
In an SJT scenario, you witness a heated argument between two colleagues in a common area. Neither asks for your help. What is the most appropriate response?
Answer: Calmly let them know a private space is available and check in with each afterward
Offering a private space reduces public escalation while respecting the parties' autonomy to resolve the conflict themselves.
A team member tells you they feel personally attacked by feedback you gave them in a performance review. What is the best way to respond?
Answer: Acknowledge their feelings, clarify your intent, and discuss how you can give feedback more effectively in the future
Validating feelings, clarifying intent, and improving the feedback process together addresses the emotional response without abandoning the performance conversation.
You work remotely and a conflict with a colleague has been escalating through text-based messages. What is the most effective next step?
Answer: Switch to a video call to allow for clearer communication and real-time dialogue
Switching to a richer communication channel like video reduces misinterpretation and allows both parties to respond to emotional cues in real time.
Which of the following statements best describes the difference between compromise and collaboration in conflict resolution?
Answer: Compromise means each party gives up something; collaboration seeks a solution that fully satisfies both parties' core needs
Compromise results in partial satisfaction for both parties, while collaboration (integrative bargaining) aims for a solution that meets everyone's core interests fully.
You are managing a conflict between two senior employees who both believe they have authority over a project decision. The most effective first step is to:
Answer: Review existing role definitions and organizational charts to clarify decision-making authority
Clarifying role boundaries and decision authority through existing documentation removes ambiguity, which is often the root cause of authority conflicts.