How to answer this HR question?

Question

Ok, I always get asked this question in interviews by HR people...."tell me about a time you had a conflict with a co-worker and how was it resolved?"
Here's the problem, I can't really recall a time I had a conflict, or if I did it must have been so insignificant to be remembered......do I lie and make up a story to satisfy HR, or do I honestly answer that I haven't really had any significant conflicts?

Answer 1

I would answer it just like you said..
I would not use the phrase significant conflicts because then they will ask you what insignificant or minor conflicts you've had.
You may not work in a field where there are many... you might even describe to them how you "avoid" any potential conflicts instead.

Good Luck Job Hunting!

Answer 2

Not all questions in an interview can be answered. Instead of making up a story - use it to accentuate the positives.

Tell them about how you consider yourself a person who works through conflict and very rarely has conflicts with co-workers. Each person has their own unique qualities that contribute to the organization's goals.

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Answer 3

Never lie. You can tell the HR person exactly what you said in your question. My guess is that most people don't have problems with co-workers as that is the fastest way to get fired. I don't mean a heated discussion, but yelling, name calling, and other aggressive behavior is what he is actually asking. They are looking for team players.

Answer 4

Make up a lie. I am going to be honest, I don't believe that you have never had a conflict. Small conflicts are normal...they build character. Find sometime when you didn't get along with someone, or disagreed, and handled it professionally.

Answer 5

Tell the truth.