Stress Interviews

Stress interviews are a deliberate test of your coping skills. The interviewer might be intentionally sarcastic, argumentative, or rude, or you may be kept waiting for an extended period. The interviewer will assume that your reaction to stress in the interview will be similar to your reaction to stress on the job. You want to assure him or her that you can handle it.

Here are some tips for stress interviews:

   Don’t take things personally. This is absolutely key!

   Remain calm.

   Endure the silent treatment, a technique often seen in stress interviews. If the interviewer remains silent for more than a minute, ask whether he or she needs clarification or elaboration on your last comment.

   Use good judgment. If the interviewer steps beyond the line of putting you through a stress interview to treating you in a downright offensive or degrading manner, stand up for yourself. Consider a comment like this: “I base my business relationships on mutual respect. I’d like our relationship to be the same. May we continue in a manner that would allow us to build bridges and explore our mutual needs?” If they say no, be ready to walk away or stay and be humiliated.