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what does it mean if someone ask you "tell me about a typical day" ?

what does it mean if someone ask you "tell me about a typical day"

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Camille’s Answer

Hi Nina! If you're asked this question in a job interview, they're really interested in hearing about the tasks you handle daily and how you keep everything organized. It's a friendly way for them to understand your work routine better.
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Yaz’s Answer

Usually during a job interview it means for you to walk through your daily responsibilities/tasks in your current role.
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Nina !

The question you have in mind can be taken two ways. It can be asked by the interviewer about your last job or an applicant can ask the employer if they have no idea of the position requirements (which should be stated in an employment notice).

Personally, this question either asked by an employer or asked by me has never been done in a job interview for a simple reason. Most people understand the job duties of a professional position and would not really ask that question, but I see that it is a thing, so I am happy to discuss it. Let's say that you are an Attorney for example and you are applying for a job with a law firm. The person interviewing you most likely is an attorney so it would never be on their mind to ask you what your duties were at your last job or how your day goes as an attorney. They already know. Most professional positions, with the exception of a few, are not typical. Days vary tremendously. Plus, the employer has your resume and already knows what you did at your last job.

I will first explain how an employer could usefully put the question to an applicant and than how an applicant could more effectively ask an employer. Part of being in an interview is showing that you are knowledgeable about the work as well as experienced.

An employer can ask, tell me about the case you worked on that took the longest. How many cases have you handled that have won appeals ? Questions about actual work or accomplishments are most likely on the employers mind. They know what lawyers do on a daily basis so they wouldn't literally be curious about that. I would really be surprised if this question was asked to me during an interview, but since it seems to be popular, you should be prepared with a professional answer. Something like that your day varies but I've done heavy depositions and spend a lot of time in court and communicating with clients. I did all my own work without a paralegal.

Still using the example of Attorney, if you ask an employer about the work day, ask a question focused on the work. Do you typically get more personal injury cases or negligence cases ? What support staff are in place at your firm ? What are two of the more high end cases your firm has handled ? And with the answers, show support and agreement with what the employer says because that will show that you are like-minded and create a bond during the interview.

I do hope that my advice is helpful to you, something to think about and something that will add to the way you perceive job interviews. Best wishes in all you do !
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Racheal’s Answer

Hi and thank you for the question.
When someone ask "tell me about a typical day" they are inquiring about common duties and responsibilities that one must complete in the day. While variations happen, there are common themes that one does that is constant and rarely ever changing.
I encourage candidates, even myself to be sure to ask this question just in case the company has expectations for me to constantly perform when I know I like to do something different on a daily basis.
Remember, in any interview you are interviewing the company or organization as well...its a two way street.
Thank you comment icon "Remember, in any interview you are interviewing the company or organization as well...its a two way street." A comment that bears repeating! Thank Racheal! Unfortunately, when we are young, lack self-confidence, and just want our first professional job, we don't understand the importance of trying to find a good fit. Lessons learned. . . Kim Igleheart
Thank you comment icon Absolutely Kim! I had to learn the hard way of how much I was devaluing myself. That's why I'm here on this platform to give other insight from what I didn't know! Racheal Noble, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, NCC
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Antonio’s Answer

This expression is inquiring about what tasks or objectives would an individual face on a day to day basis. The task or objectives can vary from day to day but gives insight on what happen in an individual life from their perspective. It provide a overall picture of a routine in a day.
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Srijan Kumar’s Answer

Hello! They're interested in learning about your current role and experiences. Make sure to plan your response well in advance. Select a few key points to focus on in your reply. Remember, your initial response will likely prompt further questions, so be ready for that. As for preparation, highlight your strengths - areas where you can confidently answer any follow-up questions. This will steer the interview towards your comfort zone. Consider drafting your response and refining it before the interview. Practice reading it out loud to ensure it sounds convincing. Wishing you all the best!
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Jerome’s Answer

When it comes to networking or going through a job interview, this question is intended to give you a sense of what the job really is. That can help you understand if it is something that you truly want to do five days a week for 40 to 50 hours. it can also help you understand what they are truly looking for and share how your experience can help you accomplish those goals.
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Christy’s Answer

Hi! When I ask this in a screening interview as a technical recruiter, I am hoping to get an answer that shows a well-rounded individual that has a good work/life balance. So, if you get up at 6 am to run/workout, let them know! Work in the time for your hobbies as well as your daily work! Maybe you walk during your lunch hour or listen to a podcast! Also, include your typical work day in that as well to show the balance! Hope this helps you.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Nina!
q: what does it mean if someone ask you "tell me about a typical day" ?

2.5 FTEs = 100 hours a week
Not the brightest programmer but I get there!
No day is typical they are all different

James Constantine.
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