How to Answer: Tell me about a time you faced uncertainty in a work decision. How did you approach it?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Robinhood job interview.
2. Tell me about a time you faced uncertainty in a work decision. How did you approach it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Ambiguity is an inevitable part of most jobs and will most certainly be something you'll deal with on a daily basis within the investing space. Your interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable with uncertainty and can use solid logical reasoning skills to find the best path forward.
Written by Rachel Hills on December 26th, 2021
How to Answer
While some employers are okay with answering an exhaustive list of questions you might have, know that most employers won't want to hold your hand through every project. In your answer, emphasize that you can effectively manage uncertainty and won't need your hand to be held every step of the way. Using an experience as an example, demonstrate your ability to run with a situation even if you don't have each piece of the puzzle.
Written by Rachel Hills on December 26th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I think that uncertainty keeps the job exciting, so I can assure you I'm comfortable not having every piece of information. When I worked for a tech startup a few years ago, each day presented new challenges and uncertainties that we had to tackle. Our first time onboarding a new client was particularly challenging, as we didn't have precedents in place. I handled this uncertainty through diligent preparation in the weeks leading up to our kick-off call. I did extensive research on the client, made sure I was comfortable with our project management tools, and created various contingency plans. Overall, the onboarding went well, we developed a close relationship with this client, and our work with them remained productive and robust. Even though they were our first client and we had no blueprint to follow, I approached the situation by listening closely to the client's pain points and developing subsequent deliverables to address each one."
Written by Rachel Hills on December 26th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"As I'm sure you and your team are well aware, last year was a particularly volatile one for the market. As a result, I dealt with uncertainty daily. Over time, I became quite comfortable with this uncertainty and communicated it effectively to my clients. I found that regular communication and thorough plans for varying scenarios were the best way to deal with uncertainty. Further, I became comfortable with changing my course of action at a moment's notice depending on a client's risk tolerance and financial goals and other outlying and emerging factors."
Written by Rachel Hills on December 26th, 2021