How to Answer: How do you handle situations that could cause you to be tardy or absent?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Paramedic job interview.
25. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be tardy or absent?
How to Answer
First things first, make sure you are on time for your interview! Plan your route and how long it will take to get there. Proper planning will get you far, but sometimes life happens, and you'll need a plan B. Think about some of the variables in your life that could affect your attendance at work. Sick children, traffic, car breakdowns - the list goes on. Most likely, one of these issues has affected you before. Your interviewer wants to see that you are proactive and that you can handle the stress of unexpected situations that can arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 11th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I try my best never to be late or miss work. My motto is 'if you aren't early, you're late.' I show up to my shift half an hour early and have only called in sick once in the past two years because my wife was out of town and my son got strep throat. If something were to arise that would cause me to be late or miss work, I would notify my immediate supervisor and let them know the situation."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"In the same way I stay focused at work and quickly address my patient's needs, I stay calm and composed when issues arise. I got rear-ended one time on the way to work. I called my boss immediately and then called one of my co-workers to see if they could fill in for me for the first couple hours of my shift."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 11th, 2022