15 Stress Interview Questions & Answers
1. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you can appropriately handle the stress related to this job. Discuss how you can thrive, even during the most stressful times. You can keep your answer brief. If you can, provide an example of a time when you implemented a stress-management technique in your current role.
Answer Example
"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on a deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
Admin
"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
Manager
"I am quite resilient to stress and believe this is because of my eight-plus years' experience being in a management role in a fast-paced environment. Under times of extreme stress, I make sure to give myself a breather whether that be a quick walk around the block or a couple of minutes on the phone with my wife who is great at bringing me back down to earth."
Marketing
"Stress is often one of my drivers. When facing tight deadlines, I tend to concentrate even better. It's an odd characteristic, I admit, but it works for me!"
Retail
"I have experienced high-stress level many times in a retail environment. These times of stress might be when I have an overly aggressive and angry client to deal with, or during peak times like Black Friday or holiday sales. To keep myself grounded, I ensure that I come to work well-rested. Also, I bring a book to read during my lunch breaks. It's an escape for me, to read a book, versus spending spare time on social media."
Sales
"If I am stressed, I will take a look at the situation from the outside and narrow down what component of the situation is problematic. By sourcing the core of the issue, I feel much more equipped to tackle and conquer the situation."
Teacher
"As a seasoned educator, there are particular brands of stress that I think I am immune to by now! I can keep calm in emergency situations, for instance, and am not one to raise my voice in the classroom is someone is misbehaving. The 'count to 10' rule is simple but also useful for me."
User-Submitted Answer
"Whenever I am stressed, I tend to take a few moments to identify what is causing me stress. In sales, we're always going to have stress, but to understand where the stress is coming from allows me to specifically work on making the changes needed to mitigate and minimize the stressful circumstance that is affecting me."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Kevin Downey Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent start! By exhibiting a high EQ you set yourself as a desirable asset. However, don't forget to communicate what kind of changes have you made in the past to help you mitigate or minimize stress.
"Stress is instinctual. The trick is having your stress rather than letting your stress having you. It’s a choice, really. What’s that expression? No one can hold over you what you already own? So, I own my stress and it doesn’t have a hold over me. This wasn’t always the case, though. But, a long time ago, I learned to take a few moments to examine the cause of my stress. In understanding the source of my stress, I am better equipped to address it appropriately. Stress is something of a fire that needs to be put out, otherwise it might interfere with your performance. So, once I identify my stress, I seek the appropriate stress reliever. Whether it is taking action, or taking a micro-break and calling my kids on the phone, or listing to that song that always turns me around. But the stress reliever I’ve found has to correlate with the cause."
2. Which parts of your current position brings you the most stress?
How to Answer
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. (IE: a bus driver should not find driving to be the most stressful part of the job).
Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are taken care of."
Admin
"I am currently taking a technical writing course in the evenings and weekends so, taking these classes around my current hours is tough and causing me a bit of stress; hence, why I am seeking a new position with more workable hours."
Manager
"I currently have a couple of delinquent team members who are on the brink of termination. I have tried to save them a few times, but now the HR department has become involved. I never like to see people leave, but you cannot force others to have a strong work ethic. The turnover in our plant is currently my biggest stressor."
Marketing
"I am just beginning to take on more enterprise level clients who are a cause of stress, but I would say the good kind of stress - for the most part. I want everything to be perfect, so I work a bit slower on these projects than usual. I do realize that most of the stress and pressure that I feel is coming from within."
Retail
"We are having troubles with loss prevention efforts right now, so I would say that biggest stressor for me, at the moment, comes with month-end inventory counts. I cringe at the numbers, and then I have to submit them to our head office. I have asked for additional cameras, and even security at the door, but they won't invest in these efforts."
Sales
"My targets are pretty inflated at the moment, despite the bad economic situation. Every year, we have an automatic 15% increase in our targets when in reality, many of my big clients are clawing back on their spending this year. It stresses me out because I have doubled my cold calling numbers and spend 30% more time on the road, but the numbers just aren't adding up yet."
Teacher
"Budget cuts are stressful for any teacher; however, our district has been hit especially hard this year. I have to be very conscious of my lesson plans and the materials used, and have had to cut back on field trips which is an unfortunate fact for the kids."
3. What could your current employer do for you that would have prevented you from looking for a job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you would like to change about your current position. There is a multitude of reasons why an employee would want to leave their current job, and the interviewer wants to know that they will not be the next place of employment that you quit. Can they meet your expectations? Talk to the interviewer about your reasons for moving on and what could have prevented you from starting your employment search. Be sure to avoid speaking negatively about your current employer.
Answer Example
"What prompted my search was a reduction in hours and a pending lay off in the fall due to lack of business. I am satisfied with the majority of aspects when it comes to my current position, but it just isn't providing for me financially."
Admin
"My current employer is relocating to another state, and I am not interested in making a move. I could do my job remote; however, my boss is not offering that option at this time."
Manager
"I would not say that I am looking solely because of something that my current employer is doing wrong. I have outgrown my role, and there is no opportunity for advancement in sight. I am passively seeking at this time and do want to make a move to a much larger organization, like yours, where opportunities for growth are more readily available."
Marketing
"I am seeking an opportunity with a company that has a specific Content Marketing department, which my current, smaller agency does not have. My core skills are in content and copywriting so I would like to focus my career on those particular areas."
Retail
"The hours in my current position are no longer working for me. Split shifts were recently introduced now, to save on hiring, and my schedule is all over the place. I do wish that my current employer would have more interest in the work/life balance of its associates."
Sales
"I travel about 65% of the time in my current role. Also, this travel is primarily overnight travel. My territory is vast. I have asked to split the state of Texas with another territory sales rep, but my request became denied because it meant hiring another person. I am seeking a role with approximately 30% overnight travel."
Teacher
"Between inflated class sizes and incredibly huge budget cuts, I am not sure what more they could do. It isn't the fault of the Principal or faculty. I truly appreciate all they do for me which is why I want to leave on excellent terms when the time comes."
User-Submitted Answer
"They could have shown appreciation for the teams involved in making the company great. With a lot of recent turnovers, we find that people love what they do, but leadership, guidance, encouragement, and the "give a shit" factor were not present. This is primarily why I am looking outside of the organization for a role with a company who shows a level of true core values."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You make some highly valid points; however, depending on your interviewer and the overall vibe, this answer could come across as cynical/disdain. There is a way to position this transition in a more positive light, and that is by focusing on what you did to make your former company a better place to be. I have provided an example below.
"I am looking for a new role with a company that shares my core values, such as a commitment to continued leadership and employee encouragement. With my current employer, I feel that most days, I output more for my teams than the company leaders, which can become discouraging. I look forward to joining an organization like yours that encourages growth, development, and collaboration (or list the new company's core values and steer your answer in that direction)."
4. Looking at your resume, you've had a number of job changes, what would make me think that you will stay with our company?
How to Answer
Most hiring managers will consider more than two jobs in the past five years to be frequent movement. Take some time to explain your career progression to the interviewer. Be sure to avoid speaking poorly of any of your previous employers. This question is not the time to ramble on about how your former company did you wrong. Short and sweet is most appropriate here.
Answer Example
"Leaving Company X was due to a merger, and my role eliminated. Company Y was a seasonal role, and I am now looking for a new position because my contract with Company Z is complete this March."
Admin
"In my career, I have made moves to advance in my field of expertise. I am looking for a company that I can grow with long-term, and contribute value to, for many years to come."
Manager
"I have had a couple of unexpected moves in the last few years. You will see that my tenure, before the latest two positions, was solid. Company ABC went bankrupt shortly after I joined. Unfortunately, they did not disclose to me that they were in financial trouble before I joined their organization. Most recently, with Company XYZ, they decided to move their headquarters to Texas, and I am not able to relocate my family."
Marketing
"The last two positions on my resume were internships and not long-term positions. The role before that was to get me through school. I am now looking for a full-time role related to my new Marketing degree."
Retail
"I wish that I would have vetted my last two companies a bit better before joining them. One offered a very toxic environment which is why I left after just three months. The other went into receivership and closed their doors."
Sales
"I am seeking a position where sales targets come from facts and not just a whim! I have unfortunately joined a couple of startups and the first year's goals were simply not realistic or achievable. This frustration has led me to believe that my skills are better suited for a larger organization with historical numbers and results to rely on."
Teacher
"I have relocated a few times, as my husband is a soldier and his posts have changed frequently. He will be working in this area for the next 5-8 years, and I look forward to enjoying long-term employment."
User-Submitted Answer
"Each position has been essential to my career growth and development. I have been promoted within 2 times over; I have been given challenges and successfully met them. If I am offered a role with your company, I know that our core values align. With consideration of a relocation, I do not take moving my family to a new area lightly and know that if we agree, we will be partners in business for many years."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your answer should instill a lot of confidence with the interviewer. You sound ready to make a difference and grow within the organization. When mentioning core values and their alignment, be sure to offer up some specifics on what those are and how they will be a benefit.
5. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if they will need to compete with other companies when it comes to hiring you. It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if they are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far without disclosing every single detail.
Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in the final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
Admin
"I am in the process of exploring opportunities at companies that appeal to me; however, I am choosy about where my applications go. I am very excited about this particular opportunity and look forward to the next round of interviews."
Manager
"I have been passively seeking a new role for the past few weeks. I am putting feelers out there, but it needs to be a position where I can see a long-term fit, like this one!"
Marketing
"I am applying to other jobs, and am actively interviewing. I do have a strong interest in your role and am wondering what your timeline looks like for the next round of interviews?"
Retail
"I have put out a few application the past couple of days and expect to be getting some calls in the next day or so. There are a lot of retail opportunities open this time of year."
Sales
"It's safe to say that it's a candidate's market right now, with so many available opportunities. With that said, I am only applying to the best roles with companies with which I can grow. I look forward to further discussing your opportunity here at Company ABC."
Teacher
"I have not applied to any other roles at this time but will be taking a closer look at other openings in the next few days. When I heard there was a position open with your district I had to jump on the opportunity to apply!"
6. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employments, what were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like an explanation for the gaps in your resume. There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume, and it's best, to be honest about what you were doing. Keep your answer short and sweet, and ensure the interviewer that you did not allow your industry knowledge to become stale, or redundant, during that time.
Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for six months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
Admin
"Thank you for addressing this with me. There is a gap where I took some time to further my education. During that time, I completed my Bachelor of Business Administration."
Manager
"I was on short-term medical leave from 2011-2012 after suffering major injuries in a car accident. I recovered very well and kept in contact with my team during that time, but unfortunately, my job was not waiting for me once I was cleared to return to work."
Marketing
"There are two gaps in my resume. One, after going through a lay off when my company went through a merger. The second gap was when I relocated to Denver. I found it challenging to find a new role, but I did some freelance work to pay my bills."
Retail
"Most of the roles on my resume are seasonal. I worked part-time during the school year and then took summers to travel. This pattern gave me an immense amount of international experience. I have been to Thailand Spain and Greece. Now that I have completed my degree, I will be staying put."
Sales
"I went on paternity leave for sixteen weeks after my son was born. My employer at the time did not understand my need to take paternity, so I lost my job. It took me a few months to find gainful employment again since software sales is a very tough market to gain employment in."
Teacher
"After graduating with my Bachelor's of Education, I worked a variety of substitute teaching roles but could not find anything in my district permanent, or long term. Although I was active, it does not show well on my resume."
7. How long have you been looking for a job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have been looking for a job for quite some time or if you are new to the market. Talk to the interviewer about your job search. Have you been on the lookout for a long time? How successful has your search been? You can also ask the interviewer how quickly they are hoping to hire.
Answer Example
"I have been on the search for perhaps a month or so. I am now just beginning to become more aggressive in my job search. How quickly are you looking to make a decision?"
Admin
"I am a passive job seeker who is keeping abreast of opportunities that are right for me. I think it's best to look for a new position while currently working. It prevents rash decisions made out of desperation."
Manager
"I have had my ear to the ground for new opportunities but have not been serious about a role until this opportunity came up."
Marketing
"Knowing my expected graduation date being this May, I have been looking for roles that will start this summer. The advanced timeframe has hindered my success a little bit, but I like to be on-the-ball rather than panicking for a job too late in the year."
Retail
"I just started my search this week! Your job posting was the very first opportunity to catch my eye, and I feel so lucky to be here interviewing with you today!"
Sales
"SaaS sales is a tough market so, knowing that I wanted to make a move in the new year, I have had my eye out for the past few months. I have alerts set up and probably apply to only 1/3 of the roles that come to my inbox."
Teacher
"I have been looking for a new job since this summer. I have been working as a substitute teacher and tutor in the meantime."
8. What is the worst thing you have heard about our company?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have any reservations about joining their organization. Discuss with the interviewer the impression you have had in regards to their company. Do you have any red flags or hesitations? If you do, it is a great idea to express this to the interviewer so that they have a chance to clarify. Be respectful and non-accusatory. Keep your question as light as possible while still getting the answer you need to make yourself comfortable.
Answer Example
"For the most part, I have had a great impression of your company. After researching your organization online, I did read a couple of reviews from previous employees claiming that it was difficult to move up in the organization. Can you clarify that for me?"
Admin
"In reading some of the online reviews about your organization, there was some feedback around high turnover within your company. What is your company doing to improve in this area?"
Manager
"You mentioned earlier that your biggest pain point is the employee turnover in this department the past two years. I have also seen some negative online reviews from disgruntled employees. Could you share with me the current action steps your organization has taken to combat this ongoing issue?"
Marketing
"Your agency was in the news recently for a copywriter that was plagiarizing work for some of your major clients. What steps has this company taken to recover your reputation, and make the necessary amends with your clients?"
Retail
"I have heard from people that your company offers the best customer service, and then I have heard the opposite. I think this is par for the course when you are a huge corporation, with multiple locations. You can't win them all! I will say; however, that all of my experiences as a shopper in Company ABC have been amazing."
Sales
"Some of your Glassdoor reviews show employees who state they did not earn the commission they thought they were, after initially starting with your company. Could you share with me a realistic overview of first years' earnings in this role?"
Teacher
"Budget cuts are a pain point for a lot of teachers, students, and parents. I know that those situations are out of your hands. Could you share with me how you handle a situation such as budget cuts?"
9. How long will it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our team?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are prepared to contribute to their organization right away. If you were to be the successful candidate, when do you expect to make a viable contribution to the organization? Talk to the interviewer about your plan to create a fast impact. If you are interviewing for a sales role, it's a great idea to come to your interview prepared with a 90-day action plan.
Answer Example
"I am interested in making an impact on your organization right away and have already crafted a plan to make that happen. I am a solid business development professional, and I plan to take the territory and expand it to include additional rural areas. These actions should amount to a strong increase in revenue within the first nine months of my onboarding."
Admin
"I am here to hit the ground running! I would like to start making meaningful contributions right away and have already begun to brush up on my QuickBooks skills, as you mentioned this program is used quite often in this role."
Manager
"I am a fast learner and expect that I will have a fast turnaround when it comes to my training. In my previous position, my work made a significant financial contribution to the company, and I plan to do the same here through increasing quality assurance standards and decreasing employee turnover."
Marketing
"I plan to make a meaningful contribution immediately by offering my expertise in content marketing and social media management. Because I have already researched your clientele a great deal, I suspect that my ramp-up time will be insignificant."
Retail
"Because I have worked for your competitor for the past year, I suspect that my impact here will be immediate. I like to learn quickly and will be immersing myself in your training manuals the moment you give me the green light!"
Teacher
"I wish to make a meaningful contribution to my students immediately. It's essential that we start our year off strong. Is there anything in particular that you would like me to prepare, to ensure a smooth start?"
10. Why were you fired or let go from your last job?
How to Answer
This question will only apply to you if you have alluded to being terminated in the past. The interviewer would like to know further details of your termination. Being terminated does not have to be an embarrassing or shameful thing. Many excellent employees have been in a similar situation, in their work history. Be open and honest with the interviewer regarding your dismissal. Be sure to let the interviewer know that you can provide positive references despite a previous termination.
Answer Example
"I was terminated from my last position due to my inability to relocate to the new plant that my company was opening. It was unfortunate, but I am confident that I will find the right fit again shortly. Despite my termination, I can provide you with strong work references."
Admin
"The company I last worked for merged with another organization, and the entire administration department was laid off. I lost my job, along with 45 other people."
Manager
"The reason for my termination is a bit cloudy for me, to be honest. My previous organization said it was due to cut-backs and I was offered a severance package; however, I believe they were in more financial trouble than they let on as the company folded shortly after."
Marketing
"My previous agency decided to focus less on social media management and more on their major clients' print campaigns. Because my specialty is in social media, I believe they felt that I was no longer the best fit. With that said, my former manager is one of my reliable references."
Retail
"I was let go from my previous role because the hours no longer suited my school schedule. The circumstances were unforeseen; however, it ended up being for the best because I was already feeling a lot of pressure from my University workload. I ended up graduating top of my class which was very important to me."
Sales
"Our entire team missed our annual targets which meant automatic cause for dismissal. I am upset that this happened because I am an overachiever; however, I did feel some reprieve knowing that I was one in the entire team that did not reach targets. This situation was the first time I have missed reaching a target, so I have dissected the issue and believe that my pipeline was not solid enough. It won't happen again."
Teacher
"I was a substitute teacher, filling in for another teacher on medical leave. I thought the position would last longer than it did so I was disappointed not to finish out the year. With that said, this school will still offer me a strong reference for my short time there."
11. Can you talk to me about your GPA during undergraduate/graduate school?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like further details on your more significant successes as a post-secondary student. Are you satisfied with your GPA or would you change it if you could? Talk to the interviewer about your post-secondary experience. You can keep your answer brief and to the point.
If you were satisfied with your post-secondary experience: 'I graduated top of my class and am very proud of my accomplishments during University. The experience taught me to study hard and set goals for myself.'
If you were not satisfied with your post-secondary experience: "I feel that my GPA could have been higher; however, I was working full time while attending classes. All in all, I did learn a lot about discipline and commitment."
Answer Example
"I feel that my GPA could have been higher; however, I was working full time while attending classes. All in all, I did learn a lot about discipline and commitment."
Admin
"I would be happy to share with you further details on my post-secondary education. I studied hard in school and averaged a 3.5 GPA in undergraduate and graduate school."
Manager
"I graduated with a 3.6 GPA which I was very proud of achieving. I made the Dean's list and earned various scholarships."
Marketing
"The successes of my post-secondary education set the stage for my success in my career. My GPA could have been better; I graduated with a 3.4 however, the discipline that I learned was incredibly valuable."
Retail
"I am currently running a 3.45 GPA and would like to bring this up to a 3.6 by the end of this year. My post-secondary studies have taught me a great deal about focusing on the tasks at hand."
Sales
"I had a 3.8 GPA but did strive for a 4.0. I understand where I feel short, but I was able to achieve a spot on the football team, and earned two scholarships as well."
Teacher
"I was top of my class with 4.0! I am very proud of my GPA. I genuinely cherished my time in University."
12. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you are satisfied with your interview performance. If your interview were a flop, you would know, and it's much better to address outright your performance than try to sweep it under the rug.
If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: 'I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?'
If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: "I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."
Answer Example
"I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."
Admin
"I feel confident about our discussion today and am looking forward to the next steps in the interview process."
Manager
"I would rate my performance as an 8/10. I am happy how I answered most of the questions; however, I feel that I stumbled a bit on question XYZ. Could I further clarify for you?"
Marketing
"I enjoyed this interview! Thank you for your great questions. Is there anything more I can cover for you today?"
Retail
"I would rate my performance to 90% of my ability. When you asked about my customer service experience, I feel that missed expressing some of my experience in dispute resolution. If you have time, I would like to cover that question further."
Sales
"I hope you enjoyed this interview as much as I did! I would rate my performance as a 9.5/10. The one thing I would do differently is talking a bit more about the current successes that I have in my sales pipeline."
Teacher
"Thank you for asking. I would rate my performance today as an 8/10. There is always room for improvement, and I am sure when I get home today I will recall a couple of additional points that I did not cover today. If this should happen, are you okay with me emailing you some additional information?"
User-Submitted Answer
"It's gone quite well, I'd say. It's been a pleasure to tell you more about myself and to learn more about the company and the position. Is there anything you would like me to clarify from what's been said so far?"
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Perfect response! You sound friendly, open, and enthusiastic. Great question at the end.
13. What advice would you give to a colleague who was stressed out?
How to Answer
Being able to handle stress is one skill but being able to talk your colleagues off the ledge, during their peak times of stress, is an entirely different skill. Discuss with the interviewer what you would say or do to help a coworker cope with stress.
Answer Example
"If I had a colleague who was stressed out I would recommend that they look at the factors that regularly stress them out, and create some boundaries surrounding those stressors. Perhaps a colleague keeps interrupting them, resulting in missed deadlines. These distractions need boundaries so I would start there."
Admin
"I track my stressors and then visit them on a regular basis. I will write them down on a note in my phone and then at the end of the day, or the week; I will try to track the regular offenders. Once I can pinpoint the stressors that occur too regularly, I make a plan to eliminate or at least alleviate them. If I had a colleague, who was stressed out I would share that method with them and help them to implement it if they were interested."
Manager
"I would share the best advice that I have ever received, about stress management. I would advise my colleague to create a list of healthy responses that could be carried out at work. For instance, going for a quick breath of fresh air, running the stairs for 5 minutes, or taking a coffee break. Sometimes just stepping away or giving yourself a distraction is very helpful."
Marketing
"To help a colleague deal with stress, I would recommend that they take the time needed to recharge. It is surprising how many people do not turn their phone off ever, in an entire week, or take the vacation time to which they are entitled. Sometimes a change of pace can fix so many feelings of stress and overwhelm."
Retail
"I would tell my colleague that talking it out can help a lot. I think that if something is bothering you, you should talk to a manager or supervisor as soon as possible. Stress can become elevated when a situation is allowed to brew and grow."
Sales
"Learning how to take things in stride is a skill I am proud to have. I like to remain emotionally neutral when a situation arises so that I can assess and make a plan, with a level head. So, if a colleague were dealing with high amounts of stress, I would begin there."
Teacher
"Our team of teachers and educators are a significant source of support to one another. If a colleague were stressed out, I would take the time to ask them how I can best support them during their stressful time. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple reminder that you are not alone."
14. How do you prevent stress from your personal life entering your professional life?
How to Answer
One of the most significant problems between employees and employer is that outside influences, and stressors, begin to affect work performance and outcomes. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of keeping your cool, and your focus, in the workplace. Discuss the action that you take to ensure professionalism is present at all times.
Answer Example
"When I have a healthy balance in my personal life and responsibilities, I am much better at handling work-related stress. I keep very organized and draw boundaries well. Rest assured, I do not bring my personal life to work with me."
Admin
"Responsibilities management is the key for me when it comes to preventing stress from creeping into areas where it should not. I use a planning app to track my assignments at work, and my responsibilities at home. I promise to myself that I will not postpone an obligation or an assignment. This method has always worked very well for me."
Manager
"I take the time to regroup with my team every morning before our shift officially begins. This way, if any concerns or stressors need to be acknowledged, we do it at that time. Personal stress happens, but it cannot affect work-related performance at any time."
Marketing
"Stress management in the workplace is an incredibly important skill to master. I am assertive, in both my personal and professional life which means that when a stressor comes up, I nip it in the bud before the symptoms creep into areas of my life that it should not."
Retail
"I get a workout in every morning before I head to work. This morning workout is a great stress reliever and assurance that I come to work with a clear mind."
Sales
"I have a significant social support network between my family and friends. If I am feeling overwhelmed with stress, I will talk to someone versus bottle it up. It's important to me that I never misappropriate my feelings of stress."
Teacher
"Because I actively practice a positive mindset, I rarely become overwhelmed with stress to the point where it creeps into my work life. If I am feeling overwhelmed to that degree, I will take a personal day if possible."
15. How did you prepare for this interview?
How to Answer
The interviewer is putting you on the spot just slightly! They want to hear the steps that you took to prepare for your interview today. The wrong answer is that you are winging it! Even if you did not have a lot of time to prep for the meeting, or it was a last-minute booking, chances are you still took the time to search the company online or read through the job description. You can be brief and quickly touch on the ways that you prepared for the meeting.
Answer Example
"I prepared for this interview by researching your company history, and the job description provided to me. I am confident in my candidacy for this role and look forward to showing you my skill set."
Admin
"Since booking this interview yesterday, I have been researching online, both your company history, your reviews, and the requirements of this role."
Manager
"I am well versed in what your company offers and have spoken with a couple of my friends who have worked for your organization in the past. Also, I updated my resume for you since the one you found online was slightly outdated."
Marketing
"I have brought a fresh and updated portfolio of my work for you today. Also, I reviewed the job description in full, and I have a couple of questions prepared, which I would like to discuss at the end of our meeting if time allows."
Retail
"Your organization is one that I have had my eye on for some time now. I am well aware of your company history and took some time this week to get to know your new product line. I feel well prepared for our meeting today."
Sales
"I am aware that you launched a new brand this year, so I have taken significant time to learn about this new brand. I have watched YouTube videos and tutorials on your sales process as well."
Teacher
"I know your school district well, and the neighborhood also. I have spent time researching the student body demographics and feel very prepared to discuss how my background will positively support the goals and mission of this school."