Using "personal" situations for an example in an interview?
Interview season is coming up and I want to make sure what I say isn't uncalled for when being asked for examples about what I've done in the past. The questions will be from trading companies.
In short, a close family member became sick a few years ago and it was a pretty stressful time for my family.
Is it uncalled for to use an example or two from my situation as an example when asked something like "tell me about a time when you had to act under pressure". My response for this would be about a time when immediate medical attention was needed but no one else was around.
The last thing I want to do is try and tell a sad story or look like I'm wanting the least bit of pity, but a few instances out of the past situation would be perfect examples.
I figure as long as I concentrate on my own performance other than the situation itself then that would be ok, but I would really like some opinions on this.
Thanks
I think it's potentially risky (for the reasons you mentioned). But then, really, it's got great upside too. Don't harp too much on the problem, but focus on what you did. For instance, talk about how you moved back home from college and commuted for 2 hours both ways, crammed your schedule into three days instead of five, balanced countless responsibilities and still came out with a 4.0, didn't sleep much, etc.
Eventually every story you tell should focus on giving concrete examples that show you have what it takes to be a banker. Don't harp on the actual situation for too long as much as what you did. Briefly introduce the situation, and go.
using personal experiences may suggest you don't have enough extra-curricular/school work activity to constitute good examples. i would try to keep it professional
not sure if i agree with comments above .. in a "tell me about a time where you had to work in a team" or a question of that sort, i used an example where a family member was sick and i had to act as a "team player" and pretty much run our family business for a while .. didnt seem like interviewer thought it was a bad example (i got an offer) .. of course i was not looking for pity or anything but it was what came to my head when the question was asked
yesman brings up a valid point: (hopefully) obviously you want to focus most of your experiences in a professional environment, but sometimes it's ok to show you have a life outside your profession. I think people forget the importance of just showing you are a decent person and how far that can go.
I would suggest to avoid using personal situations. you want the interviewer to understand your personality, not your life story. focus on something more relevant.
while it would be great if your interviewer happens to appreciate it, it could very easily backfire. stick to something less controversial.
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