How to Answer: Describe to us your biggest professional disappointment?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Johnson and Johnson job interview.
22. Describe to us your biggest professional disappointment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This will help them evaluate how you handle disappointment and what you learn from such experiences. It will reveal if you take responsibility for your own actions, inactions, limitations, and self-awareness, as well as your attitude towards life.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 12th, 2022
How to Answer
Consider offering examples where your situational disappointment was beyond your control. Apply the STAR method here. Present the situation, the task that was needed from you, the action you took, and the result.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 12th, 2022
Pro Tip
It's common to emotionally digress into the moment. Resist that impulse if you feel it. Living, learning, and letting go is the maturity you want to convey. Keep your tone positive and don't present yourself as a victim. The only emotional tell you want to reveal is that the event made you stronger.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 12th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Looking back, I see my college years as the beginning of my professional career. Tradition is important to me, and I looked forward to my graduation ceremony. It's a beautiful way of acknowledging one's accomplishments. I worked hard to get there.... to graduate as valedictorian. Sadly, as a result of the global crisis, my ceremony was canceled. That was a truly professional disappointment for me."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 12th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I went to college for this career. But I allowed myself to be recruited to a sports team. That choice steered my career off course. I enjoyed the experience and it was rewarding, but I just wish I'd stuck to the plan."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 12th, 2022