QUESTION 20 OF 35

Your background is not in rail transport. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position, regardless of your lack of industry experience.

There are a variety of ways in which one can may well suited for a job; regardless of your professional background. This question is your opportunity to discuss the transferable skills you'd deliver. Transferable skills can include safety training, mechanical abilities, customer service experience, and software capabilities, for instance. Be prepared to position yourself as the best candidate for the job, regardless of your direct industry experience.

"I come from a welding environment versus a rail transport setting; however, the importance of what I did in terms of accuracy and safety are the same that you ask for in your job posting. I put safety first, and I am highly technical and mechanically minded, no matter what the industry."

"It's tough to teach time management, troubleshooting, and safety skills; however, industry knowledge is something I can learn. I have begun to study the rail transport industry already and will have a firm grasp before my start date. If you have any suggestions on resources to gain further industry knowledge, I am happy to look into them."

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

Even though I haven't worked in the rail transport industry, my ability to learn and adapt quickly at work makes me the perfect candidate to teach. I want to learn; in fact, I will take every opportunity I get in order to broaden my knowledge of pretty much anything because you never know when it might come in handy.

Rachelle's Feedback

It's imperative to be willing to learn and adapt - it's great that you point out these abilities. I suggest forming your answer in a more direct and specific way, which will also make your reply sound more confident. You can achieve this by discussing the industry experience that you do have. Then, carve out the transferable skills and qualities that you will bring with you to this role. Last, be sure to include specific benefits to CN Rail if they hired you.

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Canadian National Railway Mock Interview

Your background is not in rail transport. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position, regardless of your lack of industry experience.

Unlock all 35 Canadian National Railway Company questions

35 Canadian National Railway Company Interview Questions & Answers