How do you work through setbacks in your work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Entry Level Example
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

As I've worked closely with hiring managers throughout my career, I've learned that they love to see candidates who can handle challenges in their workday professionally. In the airline industry, no two days will be the same, and the team at Air Canada needs to be assured you can handle the inevitable setback with grace.

First and foremost, it's important to realize that everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace, and if you have a great example of a time you did this with great success, this is a great time to walk the team at Air Canada through that situation.

"I feel very comfortable and confident in my ability to handle all of the challenges of this job at Air Canada. I was no stranger to setbacks during college. Last year, an unexpected few days of classes being canceled on campus led to a situation towards the end of the semester where many assignments and exams were scheduled on shorter notice. Rather than pouting and having a poor attitude, I buckled down and got to work. It took some rearranging of other tasks and activities, but I was able to navigate everything with success."

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand it happens in any job. If I experience a major setback on the job here at Air Canada, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Of course, involving my colleagues and using straightforward communication is vital. Then, I move on and look to improve!"

"I allow myself a moment to be frustrated when a setback occurs, but never publicly. I may go for a quick walk on my lunch break, for instance. When a setback occurs, I prefer to take from the experience rather than have it take energy away from me."