On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
What to Avoid
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

How you present yourself will offer the interviewer insight into the makeup of your personality. They want to determine if you're overconfident in your answer or modest. Take the time to consider the question before giving your answer.

This could be a tricky question as nobody is 100% honest. This question is about your self-perception. Like Einstien said, "The more I learn, the more I realize how little I understand." Explaining that you try to be as honest with yourself as possible, especially when confronted with emotionally confusing situations, is key.

Focusing on how honest you are with others should be avoided. The last thing you want to do is come across as dishonest or unethical in any way.

"I consider myself extraordinarily honest with others when appropriate. Of course, if I had a rough weekend because of personal reasons, like fighting with my spouse over mundane tasks, I'd keep that to myself. Other than that, I am honest with others when appropriate. I would rate my honesty at a 10."

"When we try to process overwhelming or confusing situations, it's natural to jump to assumptions to explain an unknowable situation. One time I had a coworker lash out at me, and I took it personally. I wondered what I could've done that made them treat me that way, but it had nothing to do with me. They were having personal issues and later apologized. When I looked for an explanation for their behavior, I wasn't being honest with myself. But I think that's human. Of course, things happen. I try to be as honest and emotionally mature as I can be. So, I would rate my honesty at a 10."