Scene to read · Empathy, Professionalism
Ten past ten
You work the morning shift in a hotel breakfast room.
Breakfast ended at ten, and the room must be reset for a conference lunch at noon. Yesterday one late plate turned into twenty, the setup ran late, and Trinh, your supervisor, was written up for it. At ten past ten Marisela, a guest in her seventies just off an overnight flight, comes in as you carry the last pastry tray toward the kitchen.
The scene
Marisela: I just landed. I haven't eaten since yesterday. Anything at all, even toast?
Trinh: I'm so sorry, ma'am. Breakfast closed at ten. The café opens at eleven.
Marisela: Eleven. I understand. It's only that I'm a little shaky.
Trinh: I wish I could. If I say yes once, I can't say no to the next table.
The two questions
- 1What would you do, and what would you say to Marisela and Trinh?
- 2How do you show compassion to one person without being unfair to everyone who followed the rule?
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
