How do you handle stress on the job?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Experienced Example

The interviewer asks this question to determine if you are someone who can handle stress on the job. Working at Walgreens can be stressful and fast-paced, and the interviewer wants to determine if you will be a good fit for the team if hired. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to handle pressure in the workplace and the techniques you used to minimize job stressors. Then share your knowledge of 'Journey Live,' Walgreens "Web-based platform and mobile app" for "managing stress, reducing anxiety, improving work-life balance, getting better sleep and more." Assure them of how to take advantage of similar tools and techniques.

Focus on letting the interviewer know you understand how to decompress away from work so you are ready to handle the pressures of your job mentally. When employees understand the stress factor of their job and have healthy ways to relieve stress, they are less apt to burn out or become sick or injured from stress.

You want to avoid saying you do not handle stress well. If you cannot deal with the job stressors, the interviewer will determine you may not be a good fit for Walgreens. If you feel you need to work on handling stress better, it might be good to research ways to manage stress before your interview.

"I keep working. Stress is energy, and it adds to my sense of urgency. But I never let my stress turn my emotions against me. I just turn it into energy. Like an extra jot of caffeine to keep going. What's that expression? Sometimes the only way out is going all the way through. It's like that."

"I understand this job is stressful, and I am prepared for that. If I feel overly stressed, I will discuss this with my supervisor. In addition, I eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise, and spend time with my family on my days off. Taking care of myself mentally and physically prepares me to handle stressful situations."