How to Answer: What is the most challenging situation you have faced as an Admin Assistant? How did you overcome it?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Admin Assistant job interview.
1. What is the most challenging situation you have faced as an Admin Assistant? How did you overcome it?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you react when it comes to workplace challenges. They also want to see what you consider to be a problematic situation. For instance, if the most challenging situation is that a colleague has eaten your lunch, chances are, the interviewer will see you as unable to handle substantial workplace challenges.
Use a relatable example, and be sure to highlight what you did to overcome the situation or make the best of it. If you are new to your admin career, you can give an example from another job. You could also discuss a situation you faced while volunteering or participating on a team or committee. This question is not the time to complain about your jobs or co-workers. Keep your response as positive as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 22nd, 2020
Entry Level
"While working as a server, a guest had a severe allergic reaction to one of the dishes he ordered. I followed our policy to call 911 and not interfere with any medical assistance unless fully trained, which I was not. It was a terrifying situation; still, I took on the role of keeping other guests calm and contained the situation on an emotional level. Luckily, the guest was okay in the end!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"A few years ago, my company went through an acquisition which put nearly all of our administrative team out of work. Being the most senior Admin Assistant on the team, I was the last to be let go, which meant that when someone was laid off, I would take over their responsibilities. It was a very disheartening and upsetting situation; however, I promised myself that I would remain collected and professional through my final moments with the company. They offered me a glowing reference, which I greatly appreciate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 22nd, 2020
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