How to Answer: How many days were you absent from work last year?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Air Canada job interview.
11. How many days were you absent from work last year?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A big piece of the interview process at Air Canada will be to determine the reliability of each candidate, knowing that days away from work cause strife for the team you will work with and the potential passengers you will interact with. The hiring managers I've worked closely with throughout my career ask blunt questions like this to ensure the candidate will be dedicated and committed to the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 10th, 2023
How to Answer
Be honest and upfront with Air Canada as you answer this question. If hired, they will conduct a reference check and employment verification to answer questions on your reliability. If you had any unexcused absences, make sure you have a legitimate reason. To seal your answer, express that you believe in being on time for each shift and are willing to stay past your shift if needed.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 10th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"Over the last three and a half years of my bachelor's degree program, I've learned the importance of holding myself accountable for my time and days to commit to my work. Over the last year, I've only taken a week of vacation with my family away from school. I was in close communication with my professors leading up to the vacation and worked ahead so I wasn't too far behind when I returned. If I'm fortunate enough to join the Air Canada team, I will commit to being to my shift 15 minutes early each day and jump at any opportunities for necessary overtime."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took my designated 15 vacation days and had them approved by my director well ahead of time. I was sick for just two total days with a stomach illness, and policy dictated that we stay out of the office in those situations. I can assure you that if you contact my references, who are all current colleagues, they won't hesitate to confirm that I'm a reliable employee."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 10th, 2023