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