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2. Have you had a recent problem-solving meeting? What was the discussion
about?

Sample answer:
Yes, we had a recent meeting concerning strategies on how to cope with the sudden
oil price increase. The cost of raw materials would also be affected by the cost of oil.
Increase in cost of production would result to higher prices for supplies; this would be
unfavorable news for our customers.

3. Can you mention some things to remember during problem solving meet-
ings?

Sample answer:
People should remain calm during such times to be able to think more lucidly. The
most important thing is rooting out the problem. Only after finding the real problem/s
can brainstorming for possible solutions commence. Team members should keep an
open mind all throughout the meeting.

1. There has been a sudden demand for your product; however, they will have
to be delivered by the beginning of the next year. Your employees will not
be enthusiastic about working during the holidays. What should you sug-
gest?

Sample answer:
I understand that the employees would not want to work during the holidays since
they would rather be with their loved ones. Therefore, there should be ample com-
pensation to encourage them to work. The monetary incentives should be more than
the usual overtime pay. Additional non-monetary incentives could also be an alterna-
tive. We should also stress that this big order will be good for the company, and it
could bring more opportunities in the future.

2. There has been a recent case of flu and two of your team’s top negotiators
got ill. A new contract is scheduled to be finalized in a few days. What are
some options?

Sample answer:
I think it would be better if we get the negotiations to go on as planned to maintain
good relationship with our client. Maybe, we could replace the sick top negotiators
with junior members of our team. Most of us have had experience with negotiations
although most have never been the top negotiator. It is essential that the replace-
ments be thoroughly knowledgeable on all the pertinent information. I think we can
choose the replacements from those who have been present during the discussion of
the finer details of the contract. We still have a few days left to prepare them.

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