How to answer
“Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.”
How to answer it
To effectively answer this question, use the STAR method to structure your response: describe the Situation, the Task you needed to accomplish, the Action you took that went above and beyond, and the Result of your efforts. For instance, 'In my previous role as a project coordinator, we faced a tight deadline due to unforeseen circumstances. I voluntarily worked extra hours and coordinated a team brainstorm to streamline our process. As a result, we not only met the deadline but also received positive feedback from management for our innovative solutions.'
What a strong answer includes
- •Describes a specific situation with clear context and impact.
- •Demonstrates initiative and creativity in overcoming obstacles.
- •Highlights teamwork or collaboration as part of the solution.
- •Shares measurable outcomes or positive results from their efforts.
Mistakes to avoid
- •Provides vague or generic answers without specific examples.
- •Claims to always go above and beyond without detailing a particular instance.
- •Focuses solely on individual contributions without acknowledging team dynamics.
- •Fails to connect their actions to positive outcomes or lessons learned.
Why interviewers ask this
This question aims to assess your work ethic, commitment, and ability to handle challenges effectively. Interviewers are looking for specific examples that demonstrate your initiative, persistence, and problem-solving skills when faced with demanding situations. They want to understand your dedication to achieving results and how you prioritize tasks under pressure.