How to Answer: How do you occupy yourself when you do not have any pressing tasks?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Office Administrator job interview.
28. How do you occupy yourself when you do not have any pressing tasks?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to learn about your work ethic. The interviewer wants to ensure that you can work independently and maintain a steady work pace without supervision and pressure. The interviewer wants to hear that you keep yourself busy with relevant work tasks that have not been directly assigned to you or do not have an imminent deadline.
Written by Jenna Cohen on March 31st, 2022
How to Answer
Answer this question with examples of what you believe are relevant tasks. Though you may be able to bring in past experience to help you formulate a response, this question can be answered without the use of an anecdote.
If you are not entirely sure what the responsibilities of this role entail, talk about general upkeep tasks, like organizing your work area or filing old emails.
Written by Jenna Cohen on March 31st, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid providing the interviewer specific details about how you occupied your time in a past job that does not directly relate to the role you are interviewing for. They want to hear about what you will do in this specific job.
Also, avoid mentioning personal tasks. The interviewer does not want to hear that you will use any unsupervised time to check your personal messages or take breaks when you are meant to be working.
Written by Jenna Cohen on March 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"When I don't have any pressing tasks, I like to organize my area and my computer. I check for software updates, organize my email inbox, or remove distracting clutter from my area. After I have knocked those tasks out, I check with my colleagues to see if they have anything I can assist with, but I like to use my downtime to prep myself for the next priority."
Written by Jenna Cohen on March 31st, 2022