Are you willing to work overtime without overtime pay?

This is a tricky question to answer in an interview. Federal and state laws require most employers to pay overtime after an employee has worked 40 hours per week. An employer may get away without paying overtime if this is provided in their contract at the time of hire. Since every state and industry is different, you must check your local laws regarding overtime pay. Let the interviewer know you are a team player and willing to work overtime, but they should also realize they need to respect your experience and talent and compensate you for your time. Explain that you are willing to work overtime when required, but you expect to be compensated for your time. You do not want to set a precedent where the employer feels they can make you work overtime without overtime pay.