TRAPS: Blurt out "no way, Jose" and you can kiss the
job offer goodbye. But what if you have
a family and want to work a reasonably normal schedule? Is there a way to get
both the job and the schedule?
BEST ANSWER: First, if you're a confirmed workaholic, this
question is a softball lob. Whack it out
of the park on the first swing by saying this kind of schedule is just your
style. Add that your family understands
it. Indeed, they're happy for you, as
they know you get your greatest satisfaction from your work.
If however you prefer a more balanced lifestyle, answer this
question with another: "What's
the norm for your best people here?" If the hours still sound unrealistic
for you ask, "Do you have any top people who perform exceptionally for
you, but who also have families and like to get home in time to see them at
night?" Chances are the company does, and this associates you with this
other, "top-performers-who-leave-no-later-than-six" group. Depending
on the answer, be honest about how you would fit into the picture. If all those extra hours make you
uncomfortable, say so, but phrase your response positively.
Example: "I love my work and do it exceptionally
well. I think the results speak for
themselves, especially in ... (mention your two or three qualifications of
greatest interest to the employer.
Remember, this is what he wants most, not a workaholic with weak
credentials.) Not only would I bring these qualities, but I've built my whole
career on working not just hard, but smart. I think you'll find me one of the
most productive people here.
"I do have a family who likes to see me after work and
on weekends. They add balance and
richness to my life, which in turn helps me be happy and productive at work. If
I could handle some of that extra work at home in the evenings or on weekends,
that would be ideal. You'd be getting a
person of exceptional productivity who meets your needs with very strong
credentials. And I'd be able to handle some of the heavy workload at home where
I can be under the same roof as my family.
Everybody would win."
