Tell us about a time when you had to handle a difficult client. How did you handle the situation?

Sample answer to the question

I once had a difficult client who was constantly unsatisfied with my coaching recommendations. Instead of getting defensive, I took the time to listen to their concerns and understand their perspective. I realized that their dissatisfaction stemmed from a lack of progress in achieving their goals. To address this, I collaborated with the client to reassess their wellness plan and make adjustments based on their preferences and limitations. I also provided additional resources and support to help them stay motivated and accountable. By actively engaging with the client and finding alternative solutions, I was able to turn the situation around and restore a positive working relationship.

A more solid answer

In my role as a Wellness Coach, I encountered a difficult client who was frustrated with their lack of progress in achieving their health goals. To address the situation, I acknowledged their concerns and empathized with their frustration. I reassessed their wellness plan, taking into account their unique challenges and preferences. Through open and transparent communication, I collaborated with the client to set realistic expectations and establish achievable milestones. Additionally, I provided them with additional resources, such as educational materials and access to support groups, to enhance their motivation and accountability. By continuously monitoring their progress and adapting the wellness plan as needed, I was able to help the client overcome their challenges and ultimately achieve their desired outcomes.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more specific details regarding the candidate's approach to handling the difficult client. It demonstrates the candidate's adaptability to work with diverse clients, ability to work independently and as part of a team, high level of empathy and compassion, proven track record of helping clients achieve goals, ability to create and implement effective wellness plans, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. However, it could still be improved by providing tangible results or measurable outcomes of the client's progress.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a Wellness Coach, I had a challenging client who struggled with discipline and consistency in following their wellness plan. To address this, I recognized that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work and customized a plan that aligned with their individual preferences, lifestyle, and limitations. I incorporated elements of gamification and rewards to make the process more engaging and enjoyable for the client. Additionally, I scheduled regular check-ins and progress reviews to provide ongoing support and accountability. As a result of these strategies, the client experienced a significant improvement in their adherence to the plan and achieved remarkable progress towards their health goals. This success not only boosted the client's confidence and motivation but also strengthened our working relationship, leading to their continued engagement in the wellness program.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing specific examples and measurable outcomes of the candidate's handling of the difficult client. It showcases the candidate's adaptability to work with diverse clients, ability to work independently and as part of a team, high level of empathy and compassion, proven track record of helping clients achieve goals, ability to create and implement effective wellness plans, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. It also highlights the candidate's creativity in finding alternative solutions and their focus on delivering results. This answer provides a compelling narrative that demonstrates the candidate's exceptional abilities as a Wellness Coach.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences with difficult clients and identify specific examples of challenges faced and how you handled them.
Demonstrate your ability to adapt and customize wellness plans based on clients' unique needs, preferences, and limitations.
Highlight your communication and interpersonal skills, emphasizing active listening, empathy, and collaboration.
Describe measurable outcomes or results achieved in helping clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Emphasize your ability to stay up-to-date with the latest health and wellness trends and research to provide the best advice to clients.

What interviewers are evaluating

Adaptability to work with clients from diverse backgrounds
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
High level of empathy and compassion
Proven track record of helping clients achieve health and wellness goals
Ability to create and implement effective wellness plans
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills