For neurodivergent individuals entering the job market, interviews can be both exciting and challenging. One common question that frequently arises is, “How do you prioritise your work?” While this question may seem straightforward, it can pose difficulties for neurodivergent individuals who may face challenges with organisation, executive functioning, and task prioritisation. In this blog post, we will explore why employers ask this question, what they hope to achieve, and provide clear and actionable steps to help neurodivergent job- seekers prepare for and confidently answer this question during interviews.
Why Employers Ask About Work Prioritisation:
Employers want to see if you can manage your workload, meet deadlines, and make smart choices about what needs your attention first. They also want to know if you have strategies in place to handle multiple tasks and contribute to the success of the team. By asking this question, employers hope to learn about your ability to prioritise tasks effectively and work efficiently.
Preparing for the ‘How Do You Prioritise Your Work?’ Question:
Step 1: Understand the job requirements.
- Read the job description carefully and make note of the main responsibilities.
- Identify tasks that are likely to be important and need your attention.
Step 2: Think about how you prioritise tasks.
- Reflect on past experiences, like school projects or part-time jobs, where you had to manage multiple tasks.
- Consider what factors helped you decide which tasks to tackle first.
Step 3: Decide on your priority criteria.
- Determine the factors that influence your decision-making process, such as urgency, impact, deadlines, and available resources.
- Make sure you understand the goals and objectives of the team or organization, so you can align your priorities with their expectations.
Step 4: Use a system to stay organised.
- Explore different tools that can help you keep track of your tasks, such as a to-do list or a planner.
- Find a method that works for you, whether it’s a digital app or a physical notebook.
Step 5: Communicate and ask for clarification.
- Remember that it’s okay to seek clarification if you’re unsure about priorities or conflicting instructions.
- Be proactive in reaching out to your supervisor or team members to make sure you’re on the right track.
Example Answer:
“When it comes to prioritising my work, I like to have a plan in place. First, I make sure I understand what’s expected of me by carefully reading the job description or instructions. Then, I look at the tasks and consider which ones are most urgent or have the biggest impact. I think about the deadlines and available resources to help me decide. To stay organised, I use a to-do list on my phone where I write down all the tasks and due dates. This way, I can see what needs to be done and focus on one thing at a time. If I ever feel unsure about priorities, I don’t hesitate to ask my supervisor or team members for clarification. Communication is important to make sure I’m working on the right things and meeting everyone’s expectations.”
Found this useful?
Read our How to Answer ‘Tell Me About a Time You Overcame a Difficult Work Situation?’ Job Interview Question article here