If you were asked to do something in a way you were not used to, how would you react?
Handling changing environments and being flexible to doing things in a new way is an essential skill that any employer looks for in a top candidate. This is especially important at the United States Postal Service, where government regulations continue to alter and improve the ways of doing business safely, efficiently, and productively. Your interviewer ideally wants to hear that you will be open to new ways of doing things and never hesitate to ask questions and seek help.
"In a situation like this at the USPS, I would first make sure I was clear about what I was being asked to do. I'm never hesitant to swallow my pride and ask questions in times I am unsure because I want to do what's right. I always listen carefully when someone is teaching me something new or asking me to do things differently to make sure I will perform the task as directed."
Your answer to this question should show your ability to listen and respond according to what you are asked to do. Listening is a skill that requires paying close attention and observing. Thinking of an example of a time you had to be adaptable to changing conditions might help you to process in your mind the way you would handle a situation such as this. Writing down your example before your USPS interview will help you be even more prepared!
"As a new graduate, I would come to the USPS as a sponge that is ready to soak in as much as possible in my initial days, weeks and months on the. I honestly fully expect these things to happen from time to time, and when they do, I won't hesitate to seek clarification from a colleague or my manager."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I would appreciate if someone is teaching me how things can be done in a better way because this is how we update our skill by learning new things in a new way.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good response. It's important to show an interviewer that you like to update your knowledge and learn new skills.
Anonymous Answer
I specifically ask for special directions and also a time frame.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a great way to approach a new task. I have re-worded your response slightly, to help with the flow.
"If asked to do something in a new way, I would specifically ask for special directions. I would also ask for a timeframe to ensure I was clear on the expectations."
Anonymous Answer
I would make sure that I am clear about what you are asking me to do first. I may even ask you to show me, so I understand the procedure before taking on the task at hand.
Lauren's Feedback
Great response "“ you are demonstrating willingness and openness to train and learn something new. I assisted with adding language around that in order to strengthen your response.
I am very open to learning new things; often, new procedures help me become more efficient. I would be open to learning a new way of doing things, and most likely ask questions to ensure I understand everything correctly. I learn by doing, so I may even ask the person training me to show me to pick up on it.
Unlock all 30 USPS questions
Prepare for postal service interviews with answers from federal hiring experts.
Get Started