How to Answer: How do you feel about overtime?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a SpaceX job interview.
1. How do you feel about overtime?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question gauges how dedicated you would be to this opportunity. It will also help them assess how your priorities could conflict with your professional pursuits. Lastly, it will inform them of your flexibility and how much of a team player you would potentially prove to be.
Written by Kevin Downey on October 25th, 2022
How to Answer
Try not to be caught off guard by any questions when they come up. Ensure you are as familiar with the position's expectations and requirements as possible. Thoroughly research the company, the culture, and what it's like working for them. For example, according to one employee who discussed life at the company, engineers often work over sixty hours a week and even boast about sleeping at the office because they are so invested in their careers and passionate about what they do. Being willing to keep at it in this regard is one of the traits they look for in their recruits. When evaluating your priorities, it is best to be honest with your interviewer about whether such an environment is the right fit for you. If this sounds like a good fit, then meditate on how to drive this point home in your interview and take the time to prepare well in advance.
Written by Kevin Downey on October 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I don't think about it. I am passionate about what I do, and I love my work. In all honesty, I suppose I am always in overtime mode. I just keep at it, and I can't stop because there's nothing I'd rather be doing than the work I love."
Written by Kevin Downey on October 25th, 2022
Mechanical Engineer Example
"Overtime is a normal part of every work environment. It is an expectation that there will be times when it is necessary to have to stay late to meet a deadline. To be honest, it has happened when I get so engrossed in the work I do not realize how long I have been working and accidentally work overtime."
Written by Joseph Murphy on November 4th, 2022
Manufacturing Engineer Example
"Like anyone, I enjoy my personal time, but I also recognize that at times extra work is necessary in order to reach deadlines. Spending overtime in order to get everything ready for the next launch date is normal and to be expected from any company."
Written by Timothy Cannon on November 18th, 2022
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