Describe a time when you faced a challenge or obstacle in your work and how you overcame it.

JUNIOR LEVEL
Describe a time when you faced a challenge or obstacle in your work and how you overcame it.
Sample answer to the question:
During my previous internship as a Rehabilitation Counselor, I faced a challenge when working with a client who was struggling to find employment due to their physical disability. Despite their skills and qualifications, they faced constant rejection from employers who were not willing to make accommodations. To overcome this obstacle, I decided to approach local businesses and educate them about disability and the benefits of providing accommodations. I organized an awareness campaign and invited local employers to a seminar where I shared success stories of individuals with disabilities who had thriving careers. This gave them a fresh perspective and showed them the potential of inclusivity. As a result, several employers expressed interest in hiring individuals with disabilities and even offered internships to our clients. This experience taught me the importance of advocacy and education in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my internship as a Rehabilitation Counselor, I encountered a challenge when assisting a client with a physical disability to secure employment. Despite being highly qualified, they faced constant rejections due to a lack of accommodations from employers. To address this, I developed a comprehensive strategy. Firstly, I conducted research on local businesses to identify potential employers who were open to inclusivity. Then, I reached out to these businesses and organized personalized meetings to discuss the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities. I also provided them with resources and guidance on how to make reasonable accommodations. Simultaneously, I worked closely with the client to enhance their self-advocacy skills and interview techniques. Through this combined approach, we were able to secure multiple job interviews for the client. Eventually, they were offered a position at a forward-thinking company that embraced diversity and made necessary accommodations. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, creative problem-solving, and collaboration with multiple stakeholders in order to overcome employment barriers for individuals with disabilities.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer provides more specific details about the steps taken to overcome the challenge and addresses all the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description. However, it could still be improved by including more specific examples of organizational skills and utilization of case management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
An example of a exceptional answer:
During my internship as a Rehabilitation Counselor, I faced a challenge when helping a client with a physical disability navigate the job market. Despite having strong qualifications, they struggled to secure employment due to a lack of accommodations. To address this, I developed a comprehensive action plan. Firstly, I conducted outreach to local businesses and arranged meetings with HR managers to discuss the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and the potential accommodations that could be made. I created a resource guide outlining workplace accommodations for various disabilities and shared it with employers to help them understand the process. I also collaborated with community organizations to provide customized training to employers on disability awareness and inclusive workplace practices. Simultaneously, I worked closely with the client to enhance their resume, interview skills, and self-advocacy abilities. I utilized case management software to track job applications, interview schedules, and employer interactions. Additionally, I created detailed progress reports using Microsoft Office Suite to monitor the client's achievements and areas for improvement. As a result of these efforts, the client secured a job at a company that embraced diversity and provided the necessary accommodations. This experience reinforced the importance of effective communication, adaptability, and technological proficiency in overcoming challenges and empowering individuals with disabilities.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer not only provides specific details about the actions taken to overcome the challenge but also highlights the use of case management software and Microsoft Office Suite. It demonstrates a high level of proficiency in utilizing technology for effective case management. The answer also showcases the candidate's ability to collaborate with community organizations and provide customized training to employers, further emphasizing their interpersonal and communication skills. It comprehensively addresses all the evaluation areas and aligns with the job description.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences where you faced challenges or obstacles in your work and how you overcame them.
  • Identify specific examples that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse backgrounds and communicate effectively.
  • Think about instances where you utilized problem-solving and decision-making abilities to overcome obstacles.
  • Highlight your organizational skills and attention to detail by providing specific examples of managing caseloads, creating progress reports, or utilizing case management software.
  • Familiarize yourself with case management software and Microsoft Office Suite to effectively utilize them in your work.
  • Research disability laws, regulations, and the Americans with Disabilities Act to demonstrate your understanding of relevant legislation.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to work with diverse backgrounds
  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Understanding of case management software and Microsoft Office Suite

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