How do you deal with uncomfortable situations?
CBP wants to know that you can keep your cool in situations and handle discomfort with professionalism and poise. Often, the work environment of a CBP agent can be challenging, tense, stressful, and uncomfortable. Exhibit professional resilience and an ability to maturely weather uncomfortable situations. Discuss your approach, and if possible, give an example that puts a spotlight on your ability to react appropriately to discomfort.
"When working in a potentially tense environment such as border patrol, I understand that many uncomfortable situations can arise. I have had my share of eye-opening situations, and I could argue that having raised two kids, I am no stranger to discomfort! In the workplace, if an uncomfortable situation arises, I face the issue head-on, but tactfully. Sweeping things under the rug or turning a blind eye is never the answer. I have no problem being open with my colleagues. I am sure that, within CBP, there are many opportunities to rely on each other through uncomfortable or stressful situations."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Uncomfortable situations are a common part of my current job. I understand the importance of removing my feelings and behaving in a professional manner.
An uncomfortable situation that comes to mind is when I had to make a death notification to a family member of a deceased relative. This made me feel very uncomfortable especially because the notification was being made to someone who I have never met before and I had to tell them that their son passed way. I removed my personal feelings from the situation and conducted my job. Even though the family member was filled with grief, he thanked me for my honesty. That is just one of the many uncomfortable situations that I was tasked with completing daily.
Cindy's Feedback
Super job on this question. It would have been easy to mishandle by letting emotion get in the way.
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