Walk me through your morning routine.
The interviewer wants to learn more about your work style, daily habits, and routine. The goal of your response is to show the interviewer that you have a strong level of personal accountability, structure, and discipline, which translates to productive work-related habits.
"I begin mapping out my day the night before, ensuring that I have my suit pressed and ready for the workday. I also like to make sure my house is clean before going to bed. This way, I feel fresh and never overwhelmed when I wake up. I love listening to podcasts on life, business, and finance, so I will listen to a podcast while I shower and get ready. During my commute, I listen to a book on Audible or music to put me in a great mood for the day. Once I arrive at the office, I take about 30 minutes to plan my tasks and set some intentions for my day. For instance, an intention could be to do 50 cold calls that day. I am a very structured individual, and I value having a plan for each day."
"I like to get up at the same time every day, always before the sun is up. If I rise after the sun, I tend to feel behind in my day. I review what needs accomplishing for the day, have a quick workout, and then get ready for work. I like to listen to energetic music or a motivational podcast while I get ready. I take public transit to work, so I am sure to arrive at the train early to avoid any surprises with my timing into the office. I take that time to begin returning emails and completing smaller tasks. By the time I arrive to work, I am ready to take on my higher-priority responsibilities."
Avoid giving the impression that you do not have structure to your day. You may also want to avoid sounding too rigid. Instead, show a healthy balance between planning and a willingness to shift your routine when needed.
Take a couple of minutes to walk the interviewer through your morning routine, showing that you have structure and goals. It's perfectly fine to have flexibility in your routine. However, the interviewer wants to see that you have a solid level of discipline that will carry into your workday. At the end of your response, be sure to highlight how your morning routine contributes to your work performance and productivity.
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
Once I get in, I review my task list to see if priorities have changed. On my way to the office, if I pass by work areas, I say hello to everyone. In my office, I say hello to my team and ask if there is anything they need and anything I need to bring up at the daily meeting. I check for urgent voicemails, and I head up for the daily meeting. I come back and brief the team concerning the day.
Rachelle's Feedback
You sound highly organized and composed. A very good response that is easy to follow.
