How to Answer: Everyone has to bend or break the rules sometimes. Give me an example when you had to do so.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Surgical Technologist job interview.
4. Everyone has to bend or break the rules sometimes. Give me an example when you had to do so.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer may ask about a time you broke a rule at work to gauge your honesty and integrity and your ability to make difficult decisions and take calculated risks. They are not looking for a candidate who routinely breaks rules or disregards company policies, but rather someone who can think critically and act responsibly in challenging situations. By sharing an example of a time you bent a rule for the greater good, you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and commitment to ethical behavior. Be sure not to fall into the trap of thinking that the interviewer is your friend, and you can tell them about ALL the rules you break at work! The hiring manager is looking for a light example of when you bent a rule for the greater good.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 11th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am never one to break the rules out of rebellion, but I have bent one or two for the greater good of the patient. One time I can recall is when I had a patient in postoperative care. We have a rule of no mobile phones. His wife had a medical emergency, so I allowed him to have his phone with him after surgery. It didn't cause any harm to him, and he was very thankful for the empathy I showed for his situation."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 11th, 2023