If you began to feel overwhelmed with your workload or other work related issues, how would you handle the situation?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
1st Answer Example
1st Experienced Example
2nd Answer Example
Community Answers

Working as a medical laboratory technician requires a great deal of time and attention to detail. The interviewer understands the stresses that are often related to being a lab tech. He wants to know that you can identify personal stressors and that you are capable of addressing them before the anxiety of a situation gets out of hand.

"I am usually not easily overwhelmed, but we all have times that some situations affect us differently. If I begin to feel anxious or overwhelmed, if possible, I take a break for a few minutes. Sometimes just stepping outside and getting a breath of fresh air helps me to relax. Also, I am not too embarrassed to call on a coworker or supervisor if I need help. Patient care is my number one priority."

"Working as a medical lab tech, there are times that we all feel overwhelmed. I have found that when I begin to have feelings of stress or anxiety, it is always a good idea to let a team leader know. Sometimes a short break or a slight change in routine is all it takes to relieve those feelings."

"Through my career, I have definitely been at points where work was stressful and overwhelming. During these times, I have found it super helpful to communicate how I am feeling to my leader and talk over any issues that may be occurring. More often than not, any stress can be reduced with a simple conversation to help problem solve the situation."

Anonymous Answer

"I would take a moment to breathe and gather my thoughts. After I took a moment to collect myself, I would trace my steps from the beginning to find out why I am getting so overwhelmed. Once the reason is identified, I can come up with a new plan to approach my workload to prevent feeling overwhelmed again. If this does not help, I am not afraid to ask a colleague for help."

Rachelle's Feedback

Well thought out answer, and it's delivered in an easy to absorb way. Good work.

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"When I work, I always prioritize the stats. Once I get the workflow, everything will be under control and run smoothly."

Lauren's Feedback

You offer ways you try to prevent feeling overwhelmed, but the question is asking about when you are in that place of stress. It is fine to keep your original content, but add information that directly answers the interviewer's question.

"When I feel overwhelmed, I take a deep breath and reassess my workload. Creating to-do lists and prioritizing tasks helps ground and calm me. Once I have organized my workload to be more easily digestible, I focus on urgent matters first and carry on with the rest of my tasks. Working in a high-stress field, it is important to have work-life balance. Outside of work, I make sure to decompress and alleviate stress to be rejuvenated and fresh for work."

Anonymous Answer

"First I will take a break and calm down. And then, with a paper, I write down and figure out the priority and time limit. If I feel it is really overwhelming, I will let my leader know and discuss how to handle it. I don’t want to make mistakes because of rush."

Marcie's Feedback

Good! Taking a break, writing out your to-dos, prioritizing them, and speaking to your manager are all great ways to handle this situation. To improve your response, include an example of a time when you successfully handled an overwhelming amount of work. Nice job!