What would you do if there was a conflict between two vendors at an event?
Event managers are expected to be able to think quickly and handle difficult situations. It’s likely that you’ll have to manage the expectations of multiple vendors and stakeholders at any given event. If a conflict arises, it’s important to be able to quickly assess the situation and resolve it in a way that is satisfactory to all involved. This question helps interviewers gauge your problem-solving skills and see how you’d handle a stressful situation.
How to Answer : Start by emphasizing that you always strive to be a professional and maintain a positive attitude, no matter what. Then explain the steps you would take if faced with such a situation. You could start by talking to both vendors separately to understand their point of view, then work with them to come up with a solution that works for everyone. Showing that you’re able to remain calm under pressure and think quickly on your feet will demonstrate to the interviewer that you have the skills necessary for the role.
Example Answer : I understand that conflicts can arise between vendors, and my priority is always to ensure that the event runs smoothly and all stakeholders are satisfied. If I encountered a conflict between two vendors, I would first take some time to understand both of their perspectives and their needs. Then I would work with them to come up with a solution that meets their needs while still allowing the event to proceed as planned. I would also make sure to document the entire process so that similar situations can be avoided in the future.
