Being able to work under pressure is a great skill to have. When you are interviewing for a job, plan on being asked if you work well under pressure. Since this interview question is so important, we'll help you understand why it's asked so commonly and how you should answer it.
Why are you asked if you can work under pressure?
It's hard to think of a job where how you handle pressure doesn't come into play. Hiring managers ask interview questions to learn as much as they can about you and how you would handle day to day tasks. So if it's a fast-paced environment, chances are you will have to answer what is your ability to work under pressure during your job interview.
The interviewer is looking to hear more than just a "yes I work well under pressure." The best answer a candidate can provide shows the hiring manager that you have more than just one great quality. For example, it can show that you have quick decision-making skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent time and organizational skills.
How do you answer if you can handle working under pressure or not?
There are a few things to think about when answering this question in a job interview. The best answers are well thought out. Below are a few ideas to take into consideration when answering if you work well under pressure.
Be honest
Hiring managers can often tell when you aren't being honest when answering interview questions. You know how you handle stressful situations, so use examples from your past experiences to make your point. Share a time you were confronted with challenges and how you kept calm to solve the problem.
If you do not perform well under pressure, don't lie to the interview conductor. Employers will respect a candidate that admits there are areas they need to improve. It's better to say you are working to improve how you handle being stressed. Remember, the best answer is an honest one.
Give examples from previous jobs
Everyone has dealt with stress in the past. The best way to show how you handle it is by telling the interviewer about a time you overcame a stressful situation. Avoid giving generic answers that don't involve a personal story.
Rather, explain a past situation where you were under pressure. A few ideas of good high-pressure examples are:
- Tight deadlines
- High profile projects
- Not enough resources or people
- Scope of the project changed at the last minute
By talking about a stressful position you were able to thrive in, it shows the hiring manager you can handle the pressure. Describe previous work experience that relates to the job you are interviewing for.
It's okay to share a less than perfect example
You can also mention a time that you didn't do well under stress but how you have grown from the experience. After you give an example of how the pressure was challenging, say you now have a better way to effectively manage stress. Share that you were able to ask for help and use the resources around you.
All workers need help and it's not a negative to discuss it. Often candidates are scared to share a negative experience. Most hiring managers will tell you they appreciate the honesty and it shows confidence in the candidate.
Stay calm
Job interviews are stressful, so hiring managers are looking to see how you react to this question. Talk calmly and confidently when answering it. By handling the pressure of your job interview, you are showing that you know how to work under stress.
Final thoughts on answering if you can handle pressure at work
Part of every job involves stress. During your career, you may be faced with more than one task that makes you feel like you want to scream. Use your job interview to show that you know how to focus and get the job done.
Always be honest even if the answer isn't perfect. Try to stay calm and believe in yourself. Your next job is around the corner!
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