
This part can provide the hiring manager with context so they can understand the rest of your answer.Įxplain the problem. Explain the "situation" you handled in one or two sentences. Here's how to answer this interview question using the STAR method :ĭescribe the situation. When you use this method to structure your answer, an employer may follow what you're saying more easily. STAR stands for situation, task, action and result, and you implement this method by describing each of these four components in order. The STAR method is a way of formulating responses that follows a specific structure. How to answer "Tell me how you handled a difficult situation" If you don't have relevant work experience, you can describe a recent event in your personal life. A potential employer may appreciate an answer that centers on your professional life. Another consideration to make when brainstorming your answer is to use a work-related situation. Instead of speaking negatively about former coworkers, employees or supervisors, focus on what you did to rectify the situation. A candidate's answer can also provide an employer with an insight into their integrity, communication skills, initiative, leadership skills and ability to react to unpredictable events.Īs you're thinking about your answer to this interview question, you can consider how to talk about the situation positively. The response a candidate provides can help an employer determine if they could be a positive contribution to the company. Related: How To Deal With Difficult People at Work Why employers ask "Tell me how you handled a difficult situation"Įmployers ask candidates to describe difficult situations they've handled in the past to assess how they may handle challenges in their future roles. In this article, we discuss how to answer the interview question, "Tell me how you handled a difficult situation," and provide example answers you can use for reference. Understanding how to respond when a hiring manager inquires about difficult situations you've encountered can help you leave a good impression. It's important to provide a truthful answer while conveying how you overcame the challenge. During an interview, a hiring manager may ask how you've handled difficult situations in past jobs.
