How to Answer: What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Vanderbilt University Medical Center job interview.
3. What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Stress can often be a regular part of the day-to-day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (i.e., a healthcare professional should not find facing illness the most stressful part of the job).
Written by Krista Wenz on August 28th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to hear what you find stressful and what you do to manage your stress. The interviewer understands this profession is stressful and wants to know that you can handle the pressures of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on August 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I find it stressful when the schedule is running behind. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that our patients and clients get the proper, timely help they need. To minimize this stressful part of my career, I organize the workday in a time management system so all staff members can see what appointments we have for the day and the time allowed for each patient."
Written by Krista Wenz on August 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"To be completely transparent, I probably bring myself the most stress because of my innate desire to be the best. I strive for perfection too often, which causes undue stress on myself. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."