How do you handle stress and pressure?
Working as an Arson Investigator can be a stressful career. The interviewer asks this question to determine if you can handle stress on the job or if you will quickly burn out. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to handle pressure in the workplace and techniques you use to minimize job stressors.
Let the interviewer know you understand how to decompress away from work so you are ready to mentally handle the pressures of your job. Members of law enforcement and the fire service are less apt to burn out or become sick or injured from stress if they understand the stress factor of their jobs and have healthy ways to relieve stress.
Avoid saying you do not handle stress well. If you cannot deal with the stressors of the job, the interview will determine you may not be a good fit for the agency. If you have difficulty managing your stress, you may want to find ways to decompress and decrease your stress levels before your interview. You might look into taking up a hobby, exercising, playing a musical instrument, going to a yoga class, getting a massage, or talking with a therapist who can help manage your stress.
"I understand this job is stressful, and I am prepared for that. If I feel overly stressed, I will discuss this with my supervisor or a coworker who can identify with how I feel. In addition, I eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise, and spend time with my family on my days off. Taking care of myself mentally and physically prepares me to handle stressful situations."
