Can you describe a time when you had to work with a difficult team member or stakeholder on a project? How did you handle the situation, and what was the outcome?

Yes, in my previous role as a Backend Developer at XYZ Company, I had to work with a team member who had a different approach to problem-solving. This team member often took a longer time to complete assigned tasks and failed to communicate effectively with the rest of the team.

To handle this situation, I first tried to understand the root cause of the issue and had a one-on-one conversation with the team member to understand their challenges. I also provided them with the necessary support and resources to help them catch up with the team and provided them with regular feedback.

Moreover, to ensure effective communication and collaboration within the team, I scheduled regular team meetings to discuss progress and hurdles, and provided clear instructions and guidelines to the team member whenever necessary.

This approach paid off, and the team member was able to improve their performance, and the project was completed successfully by the deadline.

In conclusion, working with difficult team members or stakeholders is an inevitable part of every project, and it is essential to handle such situations with compassion, support, and consistency.

Some relevant citations to this topic include:

• Forbes - How to Deal with a Difficult Person at Work
• Corporate Finance Institute - Teamwork Skills in the Workplace
• The Balance Careers - Tips for Managing Difficult Employees