How to Answer: If you were given a choice, which work-related task would you leave for last? Why?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Raytheon job interview.
14. If you were given a choice, which work-related task would you leave for last? Why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Often we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last, in the act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully address certain tasks last because they have lesser priority or value. Raytheon trusts that their employees know this key difference and includes questions like these to test your ability to prioritize your work effectively.
Written by Karrie Day on July 22nd, 2023
How to Answer
There are two main elements to answering this question successfully. First, it is important to authentically identify the types of tasks that you would leave for last if given a choice. A truthful response is a must as the trust of their employees is a key requirement at companies like Raytheon that require various levels of security clearance for top roles.
Next, you'll want to convince your interviewer that while you may have a choice in how to order your tasks, you know how to properly prioritize your work to ensure that important items are addressed promptly and that administrative or mundane tasks do not fall behind. Essentially, you want to prove that you can be trusted to take full advantage of the level of autonomy offered in your role and will not require micromanaging.
Written by Karrie Day on July 22nd, 2023
1st Answer Example
"If given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time with my customers so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my client-facing tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"I would leave my email to last! I find that once I am in my email, it's a never-ending whirlwind of small replies and to-dos. For this reason, and to remain focused and productive, I will schedule my email time periodically throughout the day."
Written by Rachelle Enns