How do you handle working under pressure?

Sample answer to the question

When working under pressure, I stay calm and focused by prioritizing tasks and breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps. I also ensure effective time management by setting realistic deadlines and staying organized. Communication is key in high-pressure situations, so I maintain open lines of communication with my team and supervisors to keep everyone informed and updated on progress. Additionally, I leverage my problem-solving skills to identify and address any challenges that arise. Overall, my ability to remain composed and adaptable under pressure allows me to deliver quality work while meeting deadlines.

A more solid answer

When faced with pressure, I thrive on the challenge and stay focused by breaking down tasks into manageable steps. For example, in my previous role as a customer service representative, there were times when we experienced a high volume of customer inquiries and complaints. To handle the pressure, I would first assess the priority of each issue and allocate my time accordingly. I would then gather all the necessary information and resources to address each customer's concerns. By effectively managing my time and prioritizing customer needs, I was able to handle the pressure while ensuring customer satisfaction. Additionally, I believe that open communication is crucial in high-pressure situations, so I would regularly update my team and supervisor on progress and any potential challenges. Overall, my ability to remain calm, organized, and communicative under pressure has enabled me to consistently deliver quality results.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing a specific example of how the candidate handled pressure in a previous role as a customer service representative. It highlights the candidate's ability to prioritize tasks, gather information, and communicate effectively. However, it could be improved by including more details on how the candidate successfully resolved customer issues or challenges.

An exceptional answer

Working under pressure is something I excel in and have proven throughout my career. In one instance, I was part of a team responsible for managing a critical project with a strict deadline. As the project deadline approached, our team faced unexpected challenges and setbacks. To address these, I took the initiative to gather the team and brainstorm potential solutions. Through effective collaboration and problem-solving, we were able to identify alternative approaches and adjust our strategy to meet the deadline. I also made sure to maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders, providing regular updates on our progress and addressing any concerns promptly. By staying proactive, adaptable, and maintaining a positive attitude, we were able to successfully complete the project on time, exceeding the client's expectations. This experience taught me the importance of remaining calm, collaborative, and solution-oriented in high-pressure situations.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer includes a specific example of the candidate's experience in managing a critical project under pressure. It demonstrates their ability to take initiative, collaborate with the team, and maintain open communication with stakeholders. The candidate's proactive and solution-oriented approach, as well as their ability to maintain a positive attitude, sets them apart. The answer could be further enhanced by discussing any specific strategies or techniques the candidate employed to address setbacks and ensure the project's success.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences or projects where you worked under pressure and achieved successful outcomes. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
Develop effective time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks and stay on top of deadlines.
Practice maintaining a calm and composed demeanor even in stressful situations. Deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques can help in staying centered.
Improve your problem-solving skills by actively seeking opportunities to solve complex issues or participate in challenging projects.
Enhance your communication skills by practicing active listening and effective verbal and written communication. Be prepared to provide examples of situations where you effectively communicated under pressure.

What interviewers are evaluating

Ability to work efficiently under pressure
Problem-solving ability
Teamwork and communication skills