How would you handle a teammate who is not doing their share of the work?
First talk to them privately to understand why, then agree on clear tasks and deadlines. If nothing changes, raise it with the lead or guide, focusing on the work, not blame.
Explain it simply
Every group project has this problem. The interviewer wants to see that you neither silently do all the work yourself nor run to complain on day one.
Start with a private conversation; often there is a reason, like a family issue or feeling lost. Split the tasks clearly, write down who owns what and by when, and check in. Only if that fails, involve the guide or manager, sticking to facts about the work.
Example
Situation: In Varun's mini project, one member skipped three meetings in a row.
Task: Get the project back on track without a fight.
Action: He calls the member privately and learns he is unsure about the frontend part he was given. Varun pairs with him for an hour, then the team writes a shared task list with deadlines on their WhatsApp group. When one task slips again, Varun informs the guide, presenting the task list.
Result: The teammate finishes his part, the project is submitted on time, and the guide notes Varun's handling.
What to say in the interview
"I'd first talk to them one-on-one to understand why. Then I'd agree on clear tasks and deadlines. If it still doesn't work, I'd involve the lead with facts about the work."
Common mistakes
- Doing all their work yourself and staying silent.
- Complaining to the guide before talking to the person.
- Making it personal rather than about the task.