How was your attendance at your last job?
"Early on, I had some attendance issues that I've since managed. My time management skills have improved a great deal since then, and I haven't been late even once in the last 18 months."
"I prepared for my morning the night before, and nearly always arrive early to work. If ever there is even the slightest chance I may be held up for reasons beyond my control, then I will inform whomever should know of this possibility. This has happened three times in the last year, and every time I arrived right on time, which is late for me."
Having a solid track record for attendance is the basic requirement of any job. However, on the rare occasion where a delay occurs that is beyond your control, and falls outside of taking all the necessary measures to prepare for your morning commute, how you proceed says a lot about your work ethic and integrity. Stressfully racing to work, fearful of being late and gambling you will arrive on time, or just a few minutes late without being noticed, is quite different from informing your employer of the potentiality that you might arrive to work late, while taking every effort to arrive on time. As DWP states, "attend work on time and stay in touch if you are not able to work."
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
My attendance is really good as I plan the day before my shift. I had to travel over 10 miles at a time to help the company I have only been late once in a year that was because of traffic. I parked in a safe place and informed my manager.
Jaymie's Feedback
This is an impressive attendance record to share! Your answer will reassure the interviewer that you're reliable and dependable.
Anonymous Answer
I always like to be punctual so I always organize everything the evening before. If for whatever reason I can’t be there, or will be late I would keep people in the loop, otherwise, people lose trust in you.
Jaymie's Feedback
That's a great way to start your response. Consider a stronger emphasis on the fact that you rarely call out of work so they understand you are reliable and make every effort to work your shifts.
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