15 Frustration Tolerance Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to job interviews, there are certain questions that tend to trip people up. One of these is the question about frustration tolerance. This can be a difficult question to answer, because it requires you to be honest about your weaknesses. However, if you prepare in advance and know how to answer this question, you will be more likely to get the job you want.

In this article, we will discuss some common interview questions about frustration tolerance. We will also provide some tips on how to answer these questions so that you can impress the interviewer and increase your chances of getting the job.

1. What is your frustration tolerance?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your ability to handle stress. They want to know that you can complete a task even when it’s challenging and frustrating. In your answer, explain how you manage frustration in the workplace. Share an example of a time when you had to work through a difficult situation.

Example: “I have learned over the years that I am someone who has high levels of patience and tolerance for frustration. When I first started working as a receptionist at my current company, I was tasked with entering all of our client information into our database. It took me several days to enter all of the data because there were so many clients. However, I didn’t get frustrated or give up. Instead, I focused on getting one piece of information entered each day.”

2. How do you handle stressful situations at work?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your ability to handle stress. They want to know that you can complete tasks and work well with others even when under pressure. In your answer, explain how you manage stressful situations at work. Share a specific example of a time you faced a stressful situation and how you overcame it.

Example: “I understand that there are going to be times where I have to deal with stressful situations at work. When I’m stressed out, I try to take a few deep breaths to calm myself down. Then, I focus on the task at hand and do my best to get it done as quickly as possible. This helps me stay focused and avoid making mistakes because I am rushing through the task.”

3. Can you give me an example of how you were able to effectively deal with a highly stressed situation in the past?

Employers ask this question to see how you react under pressure. They want to know that you can handle a variety of situations and remain calm when things get tough. In your answer, try to describe a situation where you had to work with someone who was stressed or upset. Explain what you did to help the person feel more comfortable and productive.

Example: “I once worked with an employee who was very stressed out about her upcoming presentation. She was worried she wouldn’t be able to present effectively in front of the group. I tried to reassure her by asking questions and listening to her concerns. Then, I gave her some tips on how to make her presentation more effective. By helping her understand that she could do it, she felt much calmer before her presentation.”

4. Tell me about a time when you struggled to meet a deadline. What did you do and what was the outcome?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your ability to work under pressure. They want to know that you can complete tasks on time and how you react when faced with a challenge. In your answer, explain what steps you took to meet the deadline and highlight any skills or strategies you used to help you succeed.

Example: “In my last job as an administrative assistant, I was responsible for organizing weekly meetings between our CEO and CFO. One week, I realized I had forgotten to send out the agenda for the meeting. I immediately contacted the CFO to let him know of the mistake. He appreciated my honesty and agreed to reschedule the meeting for later in the day. I apologized to the CEO and explained why the meeting needed to be moved. He understood and said he would attend the new meeting.”

5. Give me an example of a time when you had to work under pressure.

Employers ask this question to see how you handle pressure. They want to know that you can complete tasks on time and with quality results. When answering, think of a specific situation where you had to work under pressure. Explain what the task was and how you handled it.

Example: “When I worked as an assistant manager at my previous job, there were times when I would have to take over for the manager while they were out. This meant I had to do their duties as well as mine. One day, our lead employee called in sick, so I had to cover for them too. It was a very busy day, but I managed to get everything done by the end of the shift.”

6. How would you react if your boss asked you to complete a task that you thought was impossible?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you react to challenges and whether you’re willing to take on tasks that are difficult. Your answer should show your willingness to complete a task even if it’s challenging, as well as your ability to work with others to find solutions or alternative ways of completing the task.

Example: “If my boss asked me to do something I thought was impossible, I would first ask them for more information about what they wanted from me. If I still didn’t understand, I would ask them to explain it in different terms until I understood. Then, I would try to figure out a way to complete the task by asking questions and researching other methods. Finally, I would let my boss know when I had figured out a solution so they could provide feedback.”

7. Can you tell me about a time when you were forced to improvise and adapt because things didn’t go according to plan?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you react to unexpected situations and whether you’re able to adapt quickly. It’s important to show that you can use your problem-solving skills to find solutions when things don’t go as planned.

Example: “I was working on a project for my team where we had to create a marketing plan for a client. We were given all the information about the client, including their target audience and what they wanted from us. However, two days before our presentation, the client called and said they needed more time to review our proposal. I knew this would be a challenge because it gave us less time to prepare.

We decided to work through the night to make sure we could present everything the next day. The presentation went well, and the client loved it. They signed with us right away.”

8. Do you have any hobbies or activities that help you manage stress and anxiety? If yes, then what are they?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you manage stress. They want to know that you can handle a high-pressure work environment, so they may be looking for hobbies or activities that help you stay calm and focused.

Example: “I have always enjoyed writing as a hobby, and I find it very therapeutic. When I feel stressed out, I like to write in my journal or blog about what’s going on in my life. It helps me get all of my thoughts out onto paper and organize them into something meaningful. Another thing I do is take deep breaths when I’m feeling overwhelmed. This helps me focus on the present moment and remember that everything will be okay.”

9. What do you understand by “frustration tolerance”? Have you ever experienced low frustration tolerance in the workplace?

This question is a great way to assess your understanding of the term and how you apply it in your professional life. It also allows you to share an example of when you had low frustration tolerance, what caused it and how you overcame it.

Example: “Frustration tolerance refers to one’s ability to handle stress and remain calm under pressure. I believe that having high frustration tolerance is important for anyone working in customer service because there are times when customers can be rude or unreasonable. Having patience and remaining calm during these situations helps me provide better service to my clients.”

10. Is there anything specific about our company culture that might affect your ability to deal with stress and frustration?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re aware of the company culture and whether it’s a good fit for your personality. They also want to know if you have any concerns about how you might be able to adapt to their workplace. In your answer, try to highlight aspects of the company that appeal to you while also being honest about any potential challenges.

Example: “I’ve noticed from your website that you have an open office plan. I’m excited to work in such a collaborative environment but understand that sometimes there can be too much collaboration. I am confident that I can learn to tune out distractions when needed and focus on my tasks. I think I would enjoy working here because of the emphasis on teamwork and friendly competition.”

11. Has anyone ever told you that you have a high level of emotional intelligence?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have ever been praised for your ability to remain calm and collected in stressful situations. High emotional intelligence is a desirable trait, so employers want to know that you can handle challenging situations with grace and poise. In your answer, share an example of when someone told you about your high emotional intelligence and how it helped you overcome a challenge or situation.

Example: “Yes, my college professor once told me that I had a very high level of emotional intelligence. She said that she could tell by the way I handled difficult situations in class. For instance, one time I was taking a psychology course where we were learning about different personality types. One day, our teacher asked us to take a quiz online to determine what type of personality we had. I took the quiz and found out that I am an INFJ personality type.

I shared my results with the rest of the class, but some students didn’t believe me because they thought I was just trying to show off. The next week, however, everyone else took the quiz and found out their own personality types. My professor told me that I handled the situation well by not letting the other students’ comments get to me.”

12. What would you say is your biggest weakness as an employee?

Employers ask this question to see how you handle your own weaknesses. They want to know that you are self-aware and can use them as opportunities for growth. When answering, try to think of a weakness that is not too severe or one that you have already worked on improving.

Example: “I would say my biggest weakness is being disorganized. I am working hard to improve in this area by using organizational apps and scheduling tools to keep track of important dates and deadlines. I also make sure to write down all of my tasks so I don’t forget anything.”

13. How can we help you achieve success in this role?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your expectations for the job and how you plan to achieve success. They want to know that you have a realistic idea of what’s involved in the role, but they also want to see that you’re willing to put in the effort to succeed. In your answer, explain what you expect from the position and how you plan to meet those expectations.

Example: “I understand that this is an entry-level position, so I’m prepared to work hard to prove my skills and abilities. I believe that with time and practice, I can become a valuable member of the team. I am committed to learning everything I can about the company and the products it offers. I will be available as much as possible to help out wherever needed.”

14. What’s your opinion on using humor to deal with difficult coworkers or clients?

Employers ask this question to see if you can use humor in a professional setting. They want to know that you’re able to diffuse tense situations with your coworkers and clients without causing conflict or hurting anyone’s feelings. In your answer, explain how you would use humor appropriately while still maintaining professionalism.

Example: “I think it’s important to be respectful when using humor in the workplace. I’ve found that even though my jokes are funny, they also help me build relationships with my coworkers and clients. It shows them that I’m approachable and friendly, which helps them feel more comfortable around me. If I ever felt like my jokes were making someone uncomfortable, I’d stop immediately.”

15. Why should we hire you for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are the best candidate for the job. Think about what skills you have that match the job description and how you can use those skills to help the company succeed.

Example: “I am the most qualified candidate because I have experience working in a fast-paced environment. In my last role as an administrative assistant, I learned how to multitask while prioritizing tasks based on urgency. This skill has helped me work efficiently even when under pressure. I also understand the importance of customer service, which is why I always strive to provide excellent service to everyone I meet.”