The Canadian National Railway Company needs reliable team members who can adhere to our schedules. How many days were you unexpectedly absent from work last year?
Depending on the role you are interviewing for, there may be expectations for you to work less desirable shifts, such as double shifts, split shifts, working overtime, evenings, weekends, working a waterfall schedule, and working holidays. With this question, they are gauging your overall flexibility, and your expectations for what the role entails.
Best to be honest. If you have other priorities or demands on your time that aren't conducive to working lots of overtime or covering other shifts, then it is worth clarifying this now. It is better for both an employee and an employer to learn that the job isn't a good fit earlier rather than later. Otherwise, assure the interviewer they can rely on you to show you to work when expected.
" My parents raised me with an old-fashioned mindset where you go to work unless it's an absolute emergency. The last sick day I took was about three years ago. I expect dedication from my teammates so that I don't have to cover for their shifts for fickle reasons. I deliver the same level of respect and reliability at the same time."
"I have had zero unexcused absences in the last two years. In total, I took eight vacation days out of my ten days holiday time. I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift. When you call my references, they will attest to the fact that I am highly reliable."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
In the past two years, I've had no sick days, but I have scheduled about five or six days off for personal vacations or events. Showing up to work is not only important to me for my own benefit, but also my crew's, so I don't like to leave anyone in a tough spot. I also take many last minute shift changes and pick up shifts within hours notice per company needs; when they call, I always answer.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your response sounds very genuine - this is great! This answer gives a sense that you care about your crew and your employer, ensuring that you are available and ready to assist.
Anonymous Answer
Last year has been a tough year for everyone due to Covid. Usually, I am regular for my work most of the time but unfortunately, last year I was tested positive so, I had to take some days off work.
Marcie's Feedback
I think any interviewer is going to understand the need to have taken off from work due to Covid; however, I would phrase your answer a bit differently. See below.
I always pride myself on being reliable and someone who pulls their full weight. If your company hires me, you can be assured that I'll consistently be on time and that I'll stick to my schedule so I don't let anyone, including your customers, down. Last year was naturally an unusual year because of Covid. Like any other year, I came to work every day; however, I did take some sick days off when I, unfortunately, tested positive for Covid. I'm so thankful to have gotten through that! Now I'm back to my regular, healthy, dependable self.
Anonymous Answer
I am a person that does not like to take sick days. I would rather show up and help my team finish the job.
Amanda's Feedback
It sounds like you have a very strong work ethic. The employer is trying to confirm that attendance won't be an issue for you. If you rarely call out due to illness or another issue, it's appropriate to highlight that by talking specifically about how few scheduled days you missed. This shows the interviewer that you're dependable and dedicated to supporting your team and the company by showing up on schedule.
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