It is curious: on this website when practicing SJT, I've noticed that questions dealing with possible willingness to extend one's working hours to complete additional workload are answered positively (in explanation given that EPSO looks for people ready 'to go for an extra mile'), while on the other website I was practicing today, extending working hours was given as a 'mistake' (in explanation given that one cannot decide by herself / himself to work additional hours without permission of the superior, and might even get for it in a trouble). Now this is really confusing, for I have not worked in this kind of institutional setting before, and frankly have no idea what working extra hours involves. I know for myself, being a perfectionist I will push the limits, but with all these internal regulations, who knows where the boundaries are.. :)))
I mean some questions are difficult to answer, just because of the lack of knowledge in basic regulations and proceedings. Once they would be provided, it is not a rocket science really.
Same goes for the question how would one handle the urgent necessity to take a day off, while the immediate supervisor is not available in person. Now the two viable options were either to write an email to the supervisor or to go to see the head of the unit. How can I possible know the answer to that, this is really a question based on knowledge of the internal regulations, not of my strengths and aptitudes. I am sure there is a detailed regulation how to take an urgent leave.
Just some thoughts, :)
..but seriously, what about extending one's working hours?
Interesting question.
I have also met the two situations where extending one's working hours can be rewarded or punished.
I believe you should not ask yourself such a question. The real question is "Would that be the most efficient option you have? " Answer: Not always.
Tipcally if you are already swamped with work in a given situation and something urgent or important is coming up, the question might assess your ability to prioritize and organize. In this situation, you might be given more efficient options such as delegating a task to a colleague available.
I think the kee is always solving the problem trying to use as less resources as posible or respecting the rules as much as possible. When the problem is conditioned by the time.. (ie something for tomorrow).if you don´t use some of your free time you wont solve it, in that case you will need to answer with that orientation. However, if you have more time, you will probably have some better options to solve it...in that case it won´t be right to use some extra resources without asking your manager, as he/she is the person that can decide about it.
I think the question you make involve two different topics. First one is when to ask for permission about something that you can´t decide by yourself, and second one is when to use some extraresources (as using part of your free time).
I don´t know if i explained myself...I hope so
Thank you for your answers, it was helpful!
Hello! You might be interested in taking a look at this article which explores this type of SJT question: Tough Situational Judgement Test Questions - Is Doing Overtime Good Or Bad?
http://www.eutraining.eu/tipstricks_details/tough_situational_judgement_...