How do you deal with uncomfortable situations?

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Often, our work environment holds the possibility for awkward or tense situations, especially in the field of healthcare. It can be challenging to know how to respond when you have a fellow nurse who is moody, or when your attending physician lacks social skills and is a brief communicator. The interviewer wants to know that you can keep your cool in situations like these.

"I try to avoid conflict, but I have a high tolerance for discomfort. I've learned to try to let the people in question sort it out, but have no problem rolling up my sleeves and diving in to help mediate the problem."

"I have had my share of awkward situations and having raised two kids, I am no stranger to them! In the workplace, if an uncomfortable situation arises I tend to face the issue head-on, but tactfully. Sweeping things under the rug rarely helps. I have no problem being open with my team of nurses if I am not feeling comfortable in a particular situation."

"Uncomfortable situations don't phase me. It takes a lot to make me uncomfortable and I just roll with whatever awkward thing is happening and try to either change the conversation or address the root of the awkwardness. It's all part of the gig, being in healthcare."

Anonymous Answer

"Uncomfortable situations don't upset me because I fully understand that any work environment always has the possibility of conflict tense situations. It can be challenging when your colleagues are not interacting or not communicating. If an uncomfortable situation arises, I tend to face it being open and honest but tactfully."

Rachelle's Feedback

You sound very confident in your ability to handle uncomfortable situations! If you'd like to elevate your response from 'telling' to 'showing AND telling,' I recommend adding a story-based example in the end. I have provided a starter for you below.

"Uncomfortable situations don't upset me because I fully understand that any work environment has the possibility of conflict or tense situations at times. It can be challenging when colleagues are not interacting or communicating properly. If an uncomfortable situation arises, I tend to face it being open and honest but tactful. One example of my ability to deal with discomfort is when...(give a brief story-based example using STAR)."