If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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Community Answers

In asking a question like this during your interview, it is important to understand that your interviewer is looking for a unique view of your personality and personal life. They're not necessarily looking to hear about your future career goals with their organization.

While this is an answer that you can certainly have fun in answering to show your true self to your interview, be sure that the direction you take your answer shows that you have a solid moral compass and a drive to succeed. As well, be sure to reiterate that you love your current path and continuing it with Qatar Airways.

"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career. However, if I could start over in a new direction completely, I would likely pursue my degree in education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others, so any tasks I'm given in my current career that is related to these skills are very welcome."

"To tell you the truth, my dream growing up was always to be an actor. I've always loved cinema and studying the great actors and actresses of each generation. If I could start back at a young age, I would devote more time to studying formal acting and pursuing that for a career."

Anonymous Answer

"I would take more serious thinking into Network Security or cloud technology."

Lauren's Feedback

I assisted with minor grammatical changes.

"If I could start my career over again, I would look into network security or cloud technology."

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Anonymous Answer

"I would still do claims management. I am a problem solver by nature and love coming up with solutions and new ways of doing things."

Kevin's Feedback

Being a problem solver is a fantastic strength to bring to the workplace, and you do a great job showcasing this strength in your response. But, as with any interview, try and go above and beyond in your answer by offering some more insights on your answer.

"I would still do claims management, but I might change a few decisions I made while pursuing my career. Hindsight is 20/20. Early on in my career I accepted a few promotions into leadership positions, and although those were valuable skills to pick up, the positions didn't further my career in the ways I wanted at that time. So, I think I wouldn't change my career, but I might make some adjustments to the path I took."