How to Answer: Tell me about a time you were honest.
20. Tell me about a time you were honest.
How to Answer
Honesty and integrity are qualities that employers always seek out in candidates, but they can be difficult to find. By giving an example of how you were honest about a mistake you made, you are demonstrating that you are trustworthy. When an employer can trust you, they know they can rely on you to get the job done, handle confidential material and money. For your first job, this may be one of the most valuable qualities you bring to the table!
Answer Example
"I noticed the cashier gave me back too much cash back at checkout, but I had already left the store. I went back in as soon as I noticed and gave him the ten dollars back. He was shocked. I felt so much better knowing I did the right thing."
Admin
"Honesty is an important quality to me. When I was in high school, I handed in a paper that I didn't write. I felt so guilty about it that I quickly confessed to my teacher that I was not honest with my work. She appreciated my honesty and gave me an extension to try again."
Manager
"'When I was the Captain of my football team, I knew about some of the students using performance enhancements. I felt it was my responsibility to let the coach know. I knew it would hurt my team, but I also didn't want our team to win due to dishonest behavior."
Marketing
"In University, I noticed it was common practice for students to 'dine and dash.' I thought it was terrible behavior so I stopped hanging out with people that behaved that way. I never want to be associated with dishonesty."
Retail
"I went shopping recently where the cashier forgot to ring in my third item and just charged me for two. I noticed when I arrived home, so I called the shop and had them charge my credit card over the phone."
Sales
"When I was working as a server, I received an absurdly large tip on a party that had already paid the mandated large group gratuity. A lot of times people miss that there was a required gratuity included, so I ran over to their table before they left to let them know. It had, in fact, been a mistake. However, they were so appreciative that they told me to keep the extra tip anyway!"
Teacher
"I once had a friend ask me my honest opinion on their style when it came to their interview outfits. I knew the persons' outfits were not professional looking and didn't want to hurt their feelings, but it was also vital that I help set them up for success. This friend took the feedback well and thanked me for my honesty despite the risk associated."