Scene to read · Empathy, Professionalism
Charged by the pound
You are the part-time studio assistant who processes firing charges at a community pottery studio.
In the studio office beside a shelf of fired work, manager Simona has just shown Solange, a retired member, an unexpectedly large firing bill. Members agreed to share firing costs by the weight of their work; Solange makes large sculptures but fires only occasionally and lives on a pension. You process charges, while Simona must approve any adjustments.
The scene
Solange: That's more than I expected. Could you help me manage this bill?
Simona: Weight keeps costs fair, though I understand this is difficult for you.
Solange: I can't pay it now. Smaller pieces aren't what I usually make.
Simona: We can discuss an exception, but I'd need to approve any adjustment.
The two questions
- 1What would you do, and what would you say to Solange and Simona?
- 2Tell us about a time you had to apply a rule fairly while being sensitive to someone's difficult circumstances. What did you do?
What raters look for
- Empathy
- Recognizes what others feel and need, and lets that shape the response without losing judgment.
- Professionalism
- Is reliable, respects boundaries and confidentiality, and holds a consistent standard under pressure.
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
