Careers - GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS

Work Experience Example:

Question: Tell us about a recent difficult situation or problem that you encountered in work. How did you resolve it and how did you learn from it?

Answer: Whilst working on the counter at Burger Town, a customer began to complain out loud about the service being slow ( SITUATION ) and I had to serve the customer, as well as calm him down as not to upset the other customers who were also waiting for their food ( TASK ). To do this I listened carefully to the customer and explained that the delay in service was due to a lack of staff due to sickness and after consulting with my supervisor I offered him complimentary drinks whilst he waited ( ACTION ). The customer then calmed down after realising why the delay was occurring and I learnt the importance of listening to people and being calm under pressure ( RESULT ).

Examples of additional questions − What qualities do you think will be required for this job? − What can you contribute to the company? − Why do you want to work for this company? − What do you know about this company? − What interests you about our product/service? − You haven’t done this job before. How will you cope/succeed?

− What are your strengths/weaknesses? − Why have you chosen a career in …? − How do you get on with people? − Describe any relevant work experience you have − What makes an effective team member?

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