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If you are fortunate enough to live near or have ever been to any open space, like parks, empty fields, etc., you have probably encountered what is referred to as a “social path.” You’ve undoubtedly seen them: What started out as an area that showed no footprints, over time became worn and devoid of natural growth from the repeated trampling of many feet. What once may have been grasses, flowers or weeds has become densely packed dirt, gravel and sand. Oddly, these paths are typically found near existing paved paths, formed mostly by people and bicyclists who don’t think they need to use the area specifically created for their use. If you block off one social path, there’s a strong likelihood that another will appear in its stead nearby in short order.

Walking where others have trod before isn’t necessarily a bad thing. There’s a great deal of security in knowing that others moved through that same space safely to their desired destination. It indicates that others deemed the space important, even though the ultimate destination can be approached from multiple routes.

(For the record, let me clearly state that I am by no means ....  (read more: https://hanklondon.com/the-path-you-choose/)

Every few weeks we pose a question you might get asked during an interview and a suggestion on how you might formulate your answer.

This week’s question:

With this question, your interviewer wants to know how you relate to authority and leadership from others. Convey that you try to relate well with all your coworkers, supervisors and subordinates, and that you always listen carefully to leaders’ instructions and input, as well as show respect. You know that understanding the perspectives and expectations of department heads, managers, supervisors, etc., is essential for success. No one wants to work with someone with whom they are constantly butting heads. Explain that the more you know about those expectations, the easier it will be for you to satisfy the employer’s needs, and understand their expected outcomes to successfully complete assignments and tasks. Tell your inquisitor you understand that “learning to read” your supervisors, and understanding their hopes and expected outcomes may take a little time but you are more than willing to invest whatever it takes to establish and build strong, effective working relationships.

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To see previous installments of

Tough Interview Questions and Answers,

click here

(Most recent are at the Bottom of the list.)