Scene to read · Empathy, Communication
Fifty here, fifty there
You work part-time at the front counter of an apartment leasing office.
Ataahua, a tenant of eleven years, is paying her third fifty-dollar late fee in four months; under her lease the fees are valid. The office has an autopay option that would prevent them, but staff are told not to advise tenants on their finances unless asked. The property manager, Hector, is beside you.
The scene
Ataahua: Late again, I know. These night shifts have me turned around. What's the damage?
Hector: Rent plus the fifty, Ataahua. We'll ring it up and print your receipt.
Ataahua: Fifty here, fifty there. Don't look so worried. I manage my own money fine.
Hector: Nobody's saying otherwise. We never comment on that here. Just the payment, okay?
The two questions
- 1What would you do, and what would you say to Ataahua?
- 2Describe a time you offered help that nobody had asked for. How did you decide to, and how was it received?
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
