Do you have an upcoming job interview? Check out my example answer to the interview question “Are you willing to work nights, weekends and holidays?” Other similar interview questions are: “Do you mind working night shifts, weekends or holidays?” OR “Are you willing to work long hours?” Down below you can also find useful interview tips!
Best how-to videos
📃 Make a Resume »
✍🏻 Write a Cover Letter »
👥 Create a LinkedIn Profile »
Overview Examples
📄 Resume Examples »
📝 Cover Letter Examples »
💬 100 Interview Q&As »
The interviewer asks this question to examine your flexibility and work / study schedule. You’ll most likely encounter this question when applying for a job in the hospitality or retail industry. These kinds of jobs are often times different from the typical nine-to-five jobs because they require unconventional work hours.
Example Answer
If you want to answer by saying ‘YES’
“Actually, I’m quite flexible and willing to work nights and weekends. I do know that [Store XYZ]’s busiest moments are after 8 p.m. As for the holidays, I’d like to have two weeks off so I can spend time with my family and friends. These weeks don’t have to be scheduled during the busy holiday seasons though.”
Example Answer
If you want to answer by saying ‘MAYBE’
“I know that night, weekend and holiday shifts are part of this position. I do, however, need to take schooling and housekeeping into consideration. Do you have a timetable of events? I could arrange my schedule around it, if possible. I’ll get back to you on this if that’s alright with you!”
Example Answer
If you want to answer by saying ‘NO’
“At this moment, I’m unavailable for night, weekend and holiday shifts. I can only work remotely during these shifts because of [Obligation] and [Liability]. However, I’d certainly like to consider working nights, weekends and holidays from [Date] onwards.”
TIPS
√ Do know your availability and communicate it clearly and effectively. If it doesn’t match the employer’s needs, you need to show your willingness to cooperate and compromise.
X Don’t ramble or give too many details. The employer doesn’t want to hear about your social events or plans for Thanksgiving, Independence or Christmas Day (unless asked).
