How to Answer: How do you keep your emotions from interfering with your work?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Transitional Year Residency job interview.
2. How do you keep your emotions from interfering with your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in healthcare can be emotional at times. It is normal to feel emotions when working as a physician, but it is imperative to channel them so they do not interfere with your work. Taking good care of your mental and physical health helps channel those emotions, so you can maintain composure when facing work challenges. Let the interviewers know how you remain professional when faced with an emotional workday.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 2nd, 2023
Answer Example
"It is hard not to feel emotional when losing a patient or having to deliver bad news, but I knew it was part of the job going in. I keep my emotions from affecting my work by talking with my colleagues or husband if something is bothering me and taking care of myself away from work. I like to run, which helps clear my mind when feeling emotional. I also think of the good things about a patient I have lost or who is diagnosed with a life-changing condition and do not focus on the sad part. It's easy to keep my emotions from interfering with my work when I know I must be strong for my patients and their families."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 2nd, 2023