How to Answer: How do you deal with difficult people?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Facebook job interview.
2. How do you deal with difficult people?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Difficult situations are part of any job, but this is especially the case for a Market Specialist since you'll be moderating content on one of the world's largest social media platforms. The interviewer is asking this question to understand your approach to dealing with difficult people and/or stressful situations.
Written by Tiffany McPherson on May 25th, 2022
How to Answer
Focus your answer on describing your process for navigating difficult situations. It's ideal if you can include a brief example of a difficult situation you handled well.
Written by Tiffany McPherson on May 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm no stranger to handling difficult situations or people. During college, I worked as an office assistant at a law firm where I often ran the front office. It wasn't uncommon for a client to come through the doors really upset about a lost case or some aspect of their representation. I had a solid method for dealing with these situations that included staying calm, being respectful, and thinking logically about the facts. For instance, if a person came in demanding to see an attorney who was in a meeting, immediately telling them that wasn't possible typically made them even angrier. Instead, I empathized with the client, heard them out, and made sure they knew I was taking them seriously. Then, I'd let them know I needed to check the attorney's availability and to please allow me a few moments. Even when I returned and said they would have to schedule a meeting for another time, my initial interaction with the client typically helped deescalate the situation enough that they would agree. As a Market Specialist at Facebook, I'd rely on my ability to stay calm and be logical to help me navigate any difficult situations I encounter."
Written by Tiffany McPherson on May 25th, 2022