Question: Describe a time when one of your subordinates raised an issue that they could not solve on their own. How did you support or assist them?

Alternative Question Phrasing:

What problems has one of your staff or colleagues brought to you recently? How did you assist them?

Follow-up questions:

Question Details:

Question Type:

Behavioral

Skills:

Basic – Critical Thinking,Basic – Monitoring (Making observations of self and environment),Basic – Science and Logic,Complex Problem Solving,Systems Analysis

Abilities:

Cognitive – Deductive Reasoning,Cognitive – Originality,Cognitive – Problem Sensitivity (Problem Recognition),Cognitive – Speed of Closure (Thinking Speed)

Other Factors:

Management Level,Personality-Job Fit,Personality-Organization Fit,Personality-Team Fit

Work Activity (Task):

Information Input – Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings,Interacting with Others – Assisting and Caring for Others,Interacting with Others – Coaching and Developing Others,Interacting with Others – Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates,Interacting with Others – Provide Consultation and Advice to Others,Mental Processes – Analyzing Data or Information,Mental Processes – Developing Objectives and Strategies,Mental Processes – Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Work Context (Person-Job/Team/Org Fit):

Interpersonal Relationships – Coordinate or Lead Others,Interpersonal Relationships – Responsibility for Outcomes and Results of Others

Work Style (Person-Job Fit):

Analytical Thinking,Approachability,Attention to Detail,Compassion/Concern for Others,Cooperation,Dependability,Leadership/Command,Politeness

Question Frequency

Question Difficulty

What to look for in an answer:

If the candidate can look at the problem from a broader perspective.
If the candidate shows their problem solving skills by following a positive approach.
If the candidate has not only solved the problem but trained the team member to become well equipped to solve such problems in the future.

Red Flags to Watch For:

If the candidate’s problem solving skills seem to be poor with no proper steps.
If the candidate refuses to help the subordinate directly and wants them to find their way to better equip themselves.

Sample Answer:

N/A

Question Source: https://www.totaljobs.com/advice/most-common-competency-based-interview-questions