Hard work can be exhausting but shows determination and a willingness to give your all. Working smart speaks to your ability to prioritize urgency, stay organized, effectively manage your time, and approach your work strategically. Working smarter can cut down on the hard work you put in. This question also touches on your ability to delegate rather than taking on all the work yourself. Someone who has difficulty delegating can often be heard muttering, 'if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.' Yet that adage suggests a lack of ability to effectively communicate how to do the job right, so you don't have to do it yourself. Your answer will speak to your experience level, work style, and work ethic. Acknowledge there's a time and place for working smarter over working harder.