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Department of Veterans Affairs Mock Interview

Question 3 of 30 for our Department of Veterans Affairs Mock Interview

Department of Veterans Affairs was updated by on May 4th, 2022. Learn more here.

Question 3 of 30

How do you deal with a bad day?

"It all depends on the definition of a bad day. Dealing with stress because of unexpected obstacles and roadblocks from when things don't go according to plan is one thing. In those situations, you just continue to respond and think on your feet. Resisting being flexible in situations like these can contribute to stress. But being pliable and thinking on your feet works as a coping mechanism for me. However, if it's a situation that's very stressful, like a medical emergency in the family or something so beyond our control that all you can do is roll with the punches, that's what I'll do. We all experience stress, but I've been able to reduce my stress by accepting my situation. Stress can be a paralyzing force. But if you're mobile, if you're moving forward and not freezing up, stress has a tougher time taking root. So, I guess I cope with a bad day by focusing on the output of my attitude. Attitude is everything."

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How to Answer: How do you deal with a bad day?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Department of Veterans Affairs job interview.

  • 3. How do you deal with a bad day?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      This question seeks to gauge how you cope with stress. It also aims to determine what situations you find stressful. Someone who keeps calm under pressure will always be a desirable candidate for any job.

      Written by Kevin Downey on May 4th, 2022

      How to Answer

      Detailing how you keep calm under pressure serves to exemplify emotional maturity. Acknowledging that we face stressful situations every day highlights your ability to take such situations in stride. Having a positive attitude can go a long way in demonstrating the ability to lead by example and foster a positive work environment.

      Written by Kevin Downey on May 4th, 2022

      Answer Example

      "It all depends on the definition of a bad day. Dealing with stress because of unexpected obstacles and roadblocks from when things don't go according to plan is one thing. In those situations, you just continue to respond and think on your feet. Resisting being flexible in situations like these can contribute to stress. But being pliable and thinking on your feet works as a coping mechanism for me. However, if it's a situation that's very stressful, like a medical emergency in the family or something so beyond our control that all you can do is roll with the punches, that's what I'll do. We all experience stress, but I've been able to reduce my stress by accepting my situation. Stress can be a paralyzing force. But if you're mobile, if you're moving forward and not freezing up, stress has a tougher time taking root. So, I guess I cope with a bad day by focusing on the output of my attitude. Attitude is everything."

      Written by Kevin Downey on May 4th, 2022

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "When my day's plan starts to run into obstacles and it starts to get stressful, like a medical emergency. I stay positive and keep moving forward. So overall how I handle a bad day is to keep my head high and stay on my feet."

      Jaymie's Feedback

      Positivity definitely helps get through challenging days!
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