Do you have more experience working within the public or private sector of transportation? Which would you prefer to continue your career in?
This question aims to determine how well-suited you are to this role since NAV CANADA is a non-profit, not a public company. "Canada was the first country in the world to privatize its civil air navigation system, and we remain one of the few fully private companies in the world wholly responsible for air traffic control, flight information, and other aeronautical services."
"My experience is evenly balanced between public and private transportation. I have three years of experience in public transport and four years in private transportation. The two sectors bring unique challenges and merits, so it is difficult to choose a preference. If I had to commit to just one, I would say that private transport brings me fresh challenges daily, which is why this opportunity excites me."
"For the past four years, I've worked with ABC in the private sector. Some of my favorite recent projects have included X, Y, and Z. With that said, I also bring public sector experience from earlier in my career. That experience was also helpful because it taught me a lot about processes and navigating the red tape associated with government projects. I have learned a great deal from both public and private work."
Take a few minutes to bring your resume to life for the interviewer, aligning your experience and career path with what will be expected of you in this role. Once you have highlighted the bulk of your experience, you can discuss your favorite projects or areas of interest. Avoid talking yourself into a corner regarding your preference for public or private projects. Be as diplomatic as possible by highlighting how you are prepared to transition into this role.
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
I have about four years of experience working in private companies, so which would have brought the best out me. So I would choose private transportation.
Rachelle's Feedback
Avoid pigeonholing yourself into just one sector. I have provided a slightly different version, below.
"At this point in my career, after four years with private companies, I feel my best work would be within private transportation. With that said, I am open to new learning opportunities as well."
Anonymous Answer
Unfortunately, my experience working in transportation whether public or private is non-existent. NAV CANADA would be my first and hopefully, only company when it comes to working in this industry.
Marcie's Feedback
Rather than beginning your answer on such a negative note, say something like: 'I'm excited to be transitioning into the transportation field, and while I'm lacking in direct experience, I'm confident that the skills I have will transfer over." Then discuss the skills, experience, and qualities you have that will enable you to excel in the role. Also, you can talk in a more general sense about which you prefer - working with the public or in the private sector. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
Currently, I don't have experience working in private or public transportation. But all of my work to date has been in the private business sector.
Jaymie's Feedback
Great start! Think of other skills you possess that might transfer well and speak to those. That could be project planning, communication skills, people management, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, etc.
Anonymous Answer
I do not have any experience working in the public or private sector of transportation. I would love to begin my career in transportation with NAV CANADA.
Marcie's Feedback
If NAV CANADA is a part of either the public or private transportation sector, mention that specific sector and express your interest in it (and explain why it interests you). This will help show the interviewer that you're a good fit for the company and this role.
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