What makes you angry?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example
Community Answers

The interviewer needs to make sure that you are not a loose cannon type of personality - especially in this line of work. Talk about things that trigger you, but avoid turning this into a time to complain about the people you work with or your job. You want to show that you are level-headed and mature.

It is best to focus on one or two things that make you angry in the workplace. If you have a list of reasons you become angry, the interviewer will feel that you are easily triggered and may not think you are the best candidate for the position.

Avoid saying certain coworkers or supervisors make you angry. You do not want the interviewer thinking that you are challenging to work with or are not a team player. It is okay to mention a specific trait or quality that makes you angry, such as disrespect, always being late, or poor work ethic.

"I am not the type to become angry very often or easily. I become angry when innocent people are hurt or when a total lack of respect is present. With that said, I do not lose control in my anger."

"The times when I feel anger in the workplace would mainly be when an inmate is purposefully being disrespectful or trying to start a fight. When a situation like this arises, I don't give in to the anger, but I do firmly put the inmate in place."

"I am incredibly level-headed, as my references will attest. If I become angry, it is because someone has been unnecessarily hurt. There is no need for violence and threats, so I will not tolerate it if an inmate is presenting this type of behavior. Of course, I am sure to follow protocol, regardless of my level of anger in the situation."

Anonymous Answer

"I'm a very mellow person. I don't let the small stuff get to me. You have one life; if you're always angry and stressed out, you will not enjoy life much."

Rachelle's Feedback

Bravo! These characteristics are wonderful ones for a correction officer to have.

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Anonymous Answer

"What makes me angry is when someone doesn't show respect; it's something that was instilled in me as a child. This does not in any way stop me from being professional and following protocol at work."

Rachelle's Feedback

Perfect answer, adding in that this does not get in the way of your professionalism. Well done!

Anonymous Answer

"I'm not a person who gets angry. It's best not to dwell on things that can ruin your day or outlook on situations."

Rachelle's Feedback

This response is a nice start! I recommend sticking with 'I' language rather than swapping from 'I' to 'You.' This approach will ensure that your answer remains personal and targeted. I have provided an example below.

"I am not a person who gets angry. Rather, I...(discuss your personality). I have been angry in the past (everyone has, so be sure to give a brief example here). With that said, the philosophy that I live by is to never dwell on situations that can ruin my day. I prefer to focus on solutions."

Anonymous Answer

"I am a very easy going person with a high patience level that things like yelling or threats aimed towards me are easily dismissible. Abuse or unnecessary violence makes me upset. If I can deal with the problem, I can put my anger at bay and act calmly."

Rachelle's Feedback

Acting calm and poised is very important as a correction officer. It's great that you can dismiss yelling and threats but that you do draw the line at violence. If you have experienced a situation that caused you to exercise patience in the workplace, this may be a good time to incorporate a brief story.

How to Answer: What makes you angry?