How often do you lose your temper? Do you consider yourself to have a short fuse?
This question is for the interviewer to gain greater insight into your personality and whether or not you will be a fit with their team. Talk about your ability to maintain your cool on the job. This is also a great time to offer up some references.
"I can maintain my cool and do not easily lose my temper. In my current position, I am best known for being even-keeled. If you'd like to call my references, they will also attest to this. In law enforcement, I believe it is essential to maintain a calm, in-control presence at all times."
"I have never had a temper; however, I do not hesitate to stick up for myself when needed. I keep myself in check during stressful situations and definitely do not have a short fuse."
"I lost my temper a couple of times earlier in my career as a border patrol officer. As my career progressed and I gained more experience and confidence, my fuse became longer. I can keep myself in check during my shifts, even in the most stressful situations."
Focus on answering both parts of the question. Highlight your ability to maintain a calm demeanor while working in stressful situations. You want the interviewer to understand that you can control your temper and do not have a short fuse.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I am not infinitely patient; however, I am good at maintaining my calm. While studying in college, I became a fan of stoic philosophy. To answer in short, never lose control of myself, seldom become significantly angry, but I do occasionally become irritated. I also understand that yelling or demonstrating anger signifies trying to regain control over a situation that I have lost.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a well-balanced response - good work. Stoicism is gaining in popularity, and rightfully so - it's a valuable practice, especially in your line of work. Have you read The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday?
Anonymous Answer
My first response to negative situations is to put things into perspective or applying emotional intelligence characteristics as a way of both controlling both the situation and my actions. I do not lose my temper.
Rachelle's Feedback
It's fantastic that you are so controlled! Diving into emotional intelligence a bit further; how would you best describe your EI characteristics?
Anonymous Answer
I do not consider myself to have a short fuse. I'm a very patient and composed individual. I can remain calm in stressful or challenging situations and would not lose my temper. I do practice meditation and relaxation mechanisms to help maintain my cool at all times as I believe this to be an essential part of any job.
Marcie's Feedback
Great! Is there an example you can think of to include here that demonstrates how you are able to maintain your cool in a stressful or hostile situation?
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