How to Answer: Being in such a prominent role, how do you balance your work requirements with your everyday life?
8. Being in such a prominent role, how do you balance your work requirements with your everyday life?
How to Answer
Many people believe that the more senior the role, the more relaxed their lives will get but we all know that isn't the case! Discuss with the interviewer how you ensure that you have a steady balance between work and life. Hiring manager's don't want to hear that you are a workaholic because that can equal burnout. Discuss how you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Answer Example
"I believe in the importance of work/life balance, and encourage my teammates to do the same. One way that I ensure a healthy balance is to turn my email off one hour per night, during dinnertime. That is my family time, and I aim to set a good example for my children that it is not necessary to always be 'on.'"
Admin
"I am online for the majority of my day, so when I get home, I am sure to unplug. I will read a book, go for a walk outside, or talk on the phone with a family member. Connecting with something other than a computer screen is important. This 'back to basics' approach keeps me grounded and refreshes me for the following day."
Manager
"As a senior manager, I spend a lot of time putting out fires and answering questions. Once I arrive home, I like to spend some time on the treadmill, clearing my head, while I listen to some good tunes. I need about one hour or so of time to myself...no talking to anyone, and vice versa. After that alone time, I feel like a new person!"
Marketing
"When I get home from work, I go for a run. It's a daily commitment that I have made to myself, and I feel amazing after. Rarely does work creep into my mind but when it does, I remind myself that this is my time to focus on my wellness."
Retail
"The hours of my current job are a bit random which can make it challenging to find a balance. If I am working a 12 or 14 hour day, for instance, I will commit to having a nice lunch to myself in the middle of the day. I mean, a nice, sit-down, healthy meal in a place with good ambiance. I am a foodie in my personal life so sometimes bringing that element to a busy day will put an extra skip in my step."
Sales
"It has been said that, in sales, you are always 'on.' I try to avoid this type of burnout by turning the email off on my phone when I am getting ready in the morning, and one hour before I go to bed at night. This type of boundary helps me to create a balance. I sleep better this way and perform better the following day."
Teacher
"As an educator, I often bring my work home with me. This work could include marking, assessments, or reporting. To stay balanced, even during these busy times, I like to cook and do yoga. I will take breaks in between my work so that I do not feel tired or burnt out while marking. It's important to find a good balance so that my patience level is at its peak the following day."
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