Judgement Test Question 73 – An experienced colleague takes over an urgent task
Read the scenario and rate every action independently. Several actions can receive the same rating.
On this page
Scenario
An urgent briefing is due tomorrow. Priya, the most experienced colleague, immediately takes all the important sections and says newer staff will slow her down. She can probably complete the briefing alone, but two colleagues have capacity and need experience of this work. Priya is already handling another deadline and becomes frustrated when anyone questions her approach. The newer colleagues now wait for instructions and avoid offering ideas. You lead the task, remain accountable for quality and timing, and need to use Priya's expertise without making the team dependent on her.
Rate the actions
For each action, choose Counterproductive, Ineffective, Fairly Effective or Effective.
Action A
Tell Priya to step back and require the newer colleagues to complete every section so they learn under pressure.
Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective
Action B
Allow Priya to complete the briefing because the deadline is immediate and she is the safest person to deliver it.
Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective
Action C
Divide the briefing into clear sections. Let Priya lead the most complex part, give suitable sections to the other colleagues and set review points before final submission.
Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective
Action D
Ask the team to decide among themselves who will complete each section and return to you when the briefing is ready.
Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective
Click to reveal the answer
- Action A: Counterproductive
- Action B: Fairly Effective
- Action C: Effective
- Action D: Ineffective
Members can unlock the detailed explanation for all four actions, including why each response helps, falls short or makes the situation worse.
Join our careers service to read more...
If everyone knew the best tricks and tips then they would no longer work! That is why the best guidance is for members only.
Subscribe to open the locked section on this page and get access to the full Civil Service Careers premium library.
Get help with applications, interviews, behaviours, personal statements, CVs, tests, workplace problems, promotions, and career decisions, all written for people who want a better result.
Already subscribed? Log in