Scene to read · Empathy, Communication
No, thank you
You are in your first week as a volunteer at a newcomer welcome center.
In the donations room, Jocelyn, the longtime coordinator, has offered Darnell, who arrived in the country last month, a bag of donated sweaters and jeans. The few suits on the back rail are reserved for the center's job program, which has a waiting list.
The scene
Darnell: You are very kind. But no, thank you. I cannot take these.
Jocelyn: People gave these in good faith. A little gratitude wouldn't hurt, you know.
Darnell: I meant no insult. I have an interview Thursday. I only need a jacket.
Jocelyn: Those are for the job program, and there's a waiting list. I'm sorry.
The two questions
- 1What would you say to Jocelyn and Darnell, and what would you do?
- 2Tell us about a time you realized you had misread what someone needed. What did you learn?
What raters look for
- Empathy
- Recognizes what others feel and need, and lets that shape the response without losing judgment.
- Communication
- Listens first, speaks clearly and respectfully, and adapts the message to the listener.
Answer scenarios like this on the real timers
Answer both questions on the clock, and get each one scored 1–9 the way raters score. Your first set is free, no card.
Practice free
