How to Answer: What would cause you to lose your temper with a customer?
15. What would cause you to lose your temper with a customer?
How to Answer
You will want to approach this question as a hypothetical one. Hopefully, you have never become downright angry with a client! The interviewer would like to see that you possess self-control and professionalism, even during the most challenging situations. Give the interviewer an example of what may cause you to become upset but assure them that you would never lose your temper with a client on the job. You can also discuss the ways that you maintain your composure whether that be taking a quick break, going for a walk, or having a quick laugh with a coworker.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Thank goodness I have never lost my temper with a customer. I am very easy going, but I would be more likely not to be if a customer were disrespecting a team member or becoming verbally abusive in any way."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Admin Example
"I cannot imagine losing my cool at work, but if anything pushed me to the edge, it would be a client with racist or misogynistic comments. I have zero tolerance for any behavior like that and would for sure say something to them. With that said, it would not be with a lost temper - it would be with a stern tone. If I am feeling a shorter fuse, in the workplace or at home, I will take a few deep breaths and remind myself that the situation is not as serious as it may feel in the moment."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Manager Example
"If I feel that my patience level with a client is reaching a breaking point, I will let them know that I need to run into a meeting and will call them back in 30 minutes. This time, and break, would give me the space that I needed to compose myself and come up with a better approach. I will always remain professional in the workplace."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Marketing Example
"Losing my temper is something that I do not do very often at all. I am a calm and collected individual for the most part. With that said, if a customer were pushing me that hard I would find a way to get myself some distance and room to breathe so that I could come back to the situation with a fresh set of eyes and a better attitude."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Retail Example
"I have seen coworkers lose their temper on customers and it is always uncomfortable to witness. I have never lost my temper on a client. I do not like communicating with people who are aggressive and interrupt a lot, but I can always walk away from an uncomfortable situation, choosing not to engage with the customer."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Sales Example
"In sales, customers often make a lot of demands, wanting to negotiate terms, and sometimes in very rude or unreasonable ways. No matter the circumstances, it is never okay to lose your temper on a customer. If I felt that I was getting close to an unprofessional move, or comment, I would ask a co-worker or my boss to help me out with the situation. Asking for help can show maturity, and is not a sign of weakness."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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