What interpersonal skills do you possess that would help you work with different departments?

Sample answer to the question

I possess strong interpersonal skills that would enable me to effectively work with different departments. I am a good listener and communicator, which allows me to understand the needs and concerns of individuals from various departments. I am also adaptable and flexible, able to work well with different personalities and adapt to different work styles. Additionally, I am a team player and believe in building collaborative relationships, which helps me foster a positive working environment and achieve common goals.

A more solid answer

In addition to my strong interpersonal skills such as active listening and effective communication, I have a proven track record of successfully collaborating with different departments. For example, in my previous role as a Compliance Officer at ABC Company, I worked closely with the legal department to ensure that our operations were in compliance with regulatory standards. I facilitated regular meetings with cross-functional teams to review processes, identify gaps, and implement effective solutions. Through open and transparent communication, I built strong working relationships with stakeholders, which resulted in a smoother and more efficient compliance process.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides specific examples of the candidate's experience collaborating with different departments, which demonstrates their interpersonal skills in action. However, it can be further improved with more details and outcomes.

An exceptional answer

I possess exceptional interpersonal skills that have allowed me to effectively work with different departments throughout my career. For instance, in my previous role as a Regulatory Compliance Manager at XYZ Company, I led a cross-functional team consisting of representatives from various departments, including Operations, Legal, and Finance, to ensure compliance with industry regulations. By fostering a collaborative work environment and promoting open communication, I facilitated the sharing of knowledge and best practices among team members. This resulted in improved compliance procedures, reduced risk exposure, and enhanced operational efficiency. Additionally, I actively sought feedback from stakeholders to continuously improve our processes and maintain strong relationships across departments.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides specific and detailed examples of the candidate's interpersonal skills in action, showcasing their ability to work with different departments and drive positive outcomes. The answer also highlights the candidate's proactiveness in seeking feedback and continuous improvement.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences working with different departments and identify specific examples that demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
Practice active listening and effective communication techniques, such as paraphrasing and asking clarifying questions.
Research the industry's regulatory standards and guidelines to understand their impact on different departments and how collaboration is crucial for compliance.
Familiarize yourself with common challenges in working with different departments and think of strategies to overcome them.
Highlight any certifications or training related to collaboration and interpersonal skills in your resume and during the interview.

What interviewers are evaluating

Interpersonal skills
Collaboration