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USPS Mock Interview

Question 27 of 30 for our USPS Mock Interview

USPS was updated by on March 31st, 2023. Learn more here.

Question 27 of 30

How will you handle unexpected situations that might cause you to be late for work?

"My first action would be to contact my supervisor directly and then take their direction on any colleagues I need to be in communication with to find coverage. Does this department at the USPS have any procedures in place for staff that can't make the start of their shift for various reasons? If so, I would comply if I was ever in that situation."

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How to Answer: How will you handle unexpected situations that might cause you to be late for work?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an USPS job interview.

  • 27. How will you handle unexpected situations that might cause you to be late for work?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      In work environments where production or other matters are held to a strict schedule, it is my experience that hiring managers need to be assured that their top candidate would have a swift plan in place for handling emergencies that would cause them to miss part or all of their shift. Since the United States Postal Service runs on these tight schedules daily, your interviewer wants to know that you would do what is necessary to notify the proper people immediately.

      Written by Ryan Brunner on March 31st, 2023

      How to Answer

      Breakdowns, traffic jams, bad weather, illnesses... the possibilities that could interfere with your morning route to work are endless. You want to show that you can be counted on to show up for your shift every day, but your interviewer knows that the inevitable happens to everyone. Come to your interview with the USPS prepared to talk about a communication plan you would have and let them know you are ready to work through any specific procedures they have in place for these situations. If you can, talk about a time that shows you take the most responsible approach to these predicaments.

      Written by Ryan Brunner on March 31st, 2023

      Entry Level Example

      "My first action would be to contact my supervisor directly and then take their direction on any colleagues I need to be in communication with to find coverage. Does this department at the USPS have any procedures in place for staff that can't make the start of their shift for various reasons? If so, I would comply if I was ever in that situation."

      Written by Ryan Brunner on March 31st, 2023

      Answer Example

      "I always arrive to work at least 15 minutes before I am expected to be there to give me extra time in case something happens. When I am early, it also allows time for quick communication with my colleagues. I also make sure I have the numbers of my coworkers and my boss so that I can call to let them know if I'm stuck or might be running late. If this happened at the USPS, I would communicate with the appropriate person immediately."

      Written by Ryan Brunner on March 31st, 2023

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "I always try to leave for work early so that I can reach there at least 10-15 min early than being late. I would inform the supervisor or boss that I am getting late and reason for it."

      Rachelle's Feedback

      Good reasoning in your answer. It's great that you always strive to be early for work.
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