Can you describe a time you effectively handled a difficult applicant during an interview?
Behavioral
Interpersonal Skills
Conflict Resolution
Empathy
This question assesses your interpersonal skills and ability to manage challenging situations, which are critical for an admitting interviewer to ensure a smooth interview process.
How to answer
- Start by providing context about the specific situation and the applicant's behavior
- Explain your approach in addressing the applicant's concerns or difficulties
- Detail the communication techniques you used to de-escalate the situation
- Highlight any specific strategies you employed to maintain professionalism
- Conclude with the outcome and what you learned from the experience
What not to say
- Focusing solely on the negative aspects of the applicant without offering a resolution
- Ignoring the importance of empathy and understanding in your response
- Not mentioning any follow-up actions or reflections after the incident
- Describing a situation where you lost control of the interview
Sample answer
“During an interview for a nursing program, an applicant became visibly upset about a question regarding their academic record. I remained calm and acknowledged their feelings, saying, 'I understand this is a sensitive topic for you.' I guided the conversation back to their strengths and what they could bring to the program. Ultimately, the applicant appreciated my approach, and I was able to assess their potential without further distress. This taught me the value of empathy in interviews.”
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