How do you handle stress and pressure?

"Through my eight years of experience working as a veterinary assistant, I have learned a great deal about the stress associated with helping animals. An animal cannot speak to you and tell you what they need, and when they are in distress - this can be upsetting. I keep myself collected in the workplace by keeping my eye on the prize, which is a healthy, happy animal."

Imagine you are helping a person adopt a dog. You are concentrating on completing their paperwork but in the meantime, dogs are barking loudly in the background and a new volunteer has just informed you that one of the dogs appears to be in distress.

Sometimes working at an animal shelter is a tough job! Since shelters are non-profits, you often have volunteers to manage as well.

Share with the interviewer that you know how to stay calm under pressure. You are capable of handling the most stressful situations because you have learned tools like deep breathing to help to remain calm.

"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 to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."