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You just nailed a few interview questions for your dream job and you’re feeling great.

Then suddenly you’re asked: “How would you handle a coworker who takes credit for your ideas?”

You’re instantly transported back to the time when your colleague Johnny took all the praise for your hard work.

A woman with red eyes in apocalyptic scene. The text reads: 'Me watching someone take all the credit for my hard work.'

Don’t let that old rage reignite. Stop and consider: what are they really asking?

It's About Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Interviewers will ask questions involving conflicts or problems. They want to hear if you would handle such situations in a respectful and efficient manner.

These questions provide potential employers with insights into your emotional intelligence (EQ).

They aim to measure your ability to:

  • Collaborate with others

  • Adapt to change or uncertainty

  • Resolve conflict

  • Manage stress

So, don’t let that credit-stealing Johnny get in your way.

Donald Glover cries out, 'My Emotions! My Emotions!' while his eyes are closed.

Show them you are emotionally intelligent!

Did you know?

You can also use the acronym EI for emotional intelligence. Different people prefer different terminology. EQ and EI refer to emotional and social intelligence. Both involve the ability to understand and manage emotions.

Strategies to Answer the Question

This question is likely being asked to assess your EQ and interpersonal skills.

A man nods and says, 'Hmm.'

Show the employer that when faced with a conflict in the workplace you can:

  1. Stay composed — you take the time to calm down so you don't engage in a conversation when your feelings are escalated.

  2. Evaluate the situation — you're able to consider the circumstances and empathize with your coworker in an unbiased way.

  3. Communicate professionally — you can establish an open dialogue to maintain a respectful working environment.

  4. Focus on constructive solutions — you're open to brainstorming solutions together to avoid the situation repeating in the future.

Did you know?

"49% of conflict is a result of personality clashes and 'warring egos'."

Show Off Your Emotional Intelligence!

Aubrey Plaza sits as a guest on a late night talk show. She leans forward, smiles, and rests her chin on her hand.

How Does This Sound?

“If I were in that situation, I'd definitely want to take a moment to cool off and gather my thoughts before responding. It's important not to jump to conclusions. Rather than assuming that the person intentionally took credit for my work, I'd consider that it might have been a mistake.

Once I've had a chance to calm down and think things through, I'd set up a meeting with the person involved. During the meeting, I'd approach the situation with curiosity and ask them some questions to gain a better understanding of what happened.

It's crucial to communicate that receiving proper credit is important to me, and I'd express my hope that we can collaborate effectively on future projects."

Quiz

This answer shows the person (select all that apply):

Tips To Avoid in Your Response

Avoid doing these things in your interview:

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Pointing Fingers

Using language that blames others can give the impression that you're unable to work collaboratively.

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Responding With Negativity

Using negative language will give the impression that you don't focus on constructive solutions.

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Dismissing the Importance of Communication

Saying that you wouldn't let it bother you can give the impression that you avoid conflict and are unwilling to address the issue directly.

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Saying You Went Immediately to Your Boss

Going straight to your boss gives the impression that you don't try to resolve issues directly first.

Did you know?

"Learning how to respond to emotional intelligence interview questions can help you...improve your chances of getting the job."

What Not to Say

A confused puppy looks around. Animated question marks appear above its head.

What's Wrong With This Response?

"If a coworker took credit for my idea, I would feel betrayed. It's disheartening to see someone else getting recognition for something I worked hard on. But I wouldn't want to cause any problems between us.

If it were the first time it happened, I would probably ignore it and wait to see if it happened again. If it happened again, I would go to HR to seek advice to resolve the issue."

Quiz

Why should you avoid answers like this? Select all that apply:

Take Action

It's a good chance that you already have or will encounter conflict in the workplace such as someone taking credit for your hard work.

Remember, this is a chance to show how well you handle yourself in such situations.

A woman interviewing another woman at a table.Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

Prepare yourself:

License:

This Byte has been authored by

CS

Courtney Sidsworth

English as an Additional Language Teacher

M.Ed. in Curriculum Desig

English

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