Similar to asking about your greatest weakness, this common interview question is about whether you take responsibility for your setbacks and failures, and whether you apply the lessons learned from them to increase your chances for success in the future. This is opposed to someone who hurriedly tries to cover their tracks or remedy their setbacks or failures before their mistakes are noticed. Such individuals are less likely to learn from their mistakes, and more likely to repeat them. Therefore, by studying the subtle nuances of your response to this question, they might get closer to determining your fit for this position.

When answering this question, share your story with comfortable confidence to exhibit the amount of emotional growth you've experienced since. Remember, no one can hold over you that which you already own. Whereas, sharing an example with the fear of being judged might suggest you haven't fully taken ownership of your setbacks, nor grown from them.

Remember, in any public works job, it's not just your safety, but the safety of everyone working around you that you are responsible for. So, avoid sharing any stories that would present you as a liability, or incapable of performing the requirements of the job. Instead, consider sharing examples pertaining to your personal goals, deadlines, performance standards, or missed growth opportunities. The more you can showcase a focus on growth and continual development, the better.