How to Answer: What was one question you didn't want me to ask today?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Expedia job interview.
9. What was one question you didn't want me to ask today?
How to Answer
This question can stand in for the common 'What is your greatest weakness' question. The interviewer expects you to be unprepared because it's an uncommon way of asking this question. You may be less scripted than other points in your interview, and the interviewer wants to see how you deal with that.
Two scenarios commonly play out: either a candidate blurts out a weakness, or they pause and respond with something thoughtful. This question gives the interviewer information about you, but it also tells them if you can think on your feet and answer a tough question. Use this as an opportunity to show how a weakness can be a strength or explain something they have not yet asked but may be an objection to you getting the job. It is then up to you to overcome the opposition.
Remember, it is okay to pause and be thoughtful about your response rather than blurting something out or seeming too rehearsed. Be prepared, but be sincere in your replies.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Senior Level Example
"I suppose I did not want you to dig into why I applied three years ago and rescinded my application. I feel embarrassed about it because I thought I was ready to leave my current organization and decided that, to be the superstar I wanted to be at Expedia, I needed a bit more time and experience. I know that, in the past three years, I have learned everything I could need to know to shine here, and I can't wait to put those last three years of learning and growth into action."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I didn't want to discuss why it took five years to graduate college. I was working full time while attending college and double majoring. Initially, I was taking the full course load and working full time; then, I switched my major, which added a semester. At that time, I hunkered down and upped the course load while working full time. So, while it may have taken me longer, I learned a lot about time management and upping productivity. I know these are important skills, and I look forward to leveraging them here at Expedia."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback