As an Allergist, difficult situations come up with patients, outside agencies and other medical professionals. The interviewer wants to hire a person who can work well, deliver on time as well as handle the difficult situations that might come across in their professional life. The interviewer wants to see that you have resilience, problem-solving skills, initiative and the ability to work around less-than desirable situations. Don't bring up a catastrophe that resulted in personal or professional failure. We recommend sticking to a story with a happy ending. Skip the situational story about a personal clash with a co-worker. Tell the interviewer about a professional challenge that places you in a positive light.

"I had a patient complaint to address. After hearing the patients concern it turned out it was a miscommunication. I was able to identify their concern, re-work my delivery while providing the information in a clearer way for the patient to understand. The situation taught me that even though my patients may tell me they understand sometimes they don't. I've made a point to take a few extra minutes with each client to assure they understand before sending them on their way."