Job Questionnaires

[Cloverjo]

I've been applying for jobs and get the dreaded 'what would you do?' scenario which I have to answer online. They are things like 'Your manager wants you urgently to complete some work, but you've already promised a colleague you'd help them with something. You don't have time to do both. Do you a) tell your manager you can't do it, b) tell your colleague you can't help him, c) work through the night to get everything done or d) ask for more time?
By the way, this isn't an actual question, but it is similar to the ones I've been asked.
I've been turned down for jobs because my score wasn't high enough. Anyone know what the 'best' answers are? Do you prioritise your time, your colleagues' or your manager's?

[bednobs]

I'd ask for more time in your scenario

[237SJ]

I`d prioritise the work the Manager told me to do then help the colleague as much as possible in the time remaining.

[baza]

In that set up I would ask the manager for more time , this shows a willingness to solve both problems and also you are a team player.

[EDDIE51]

There is No 'Best Answer' Such questions are designed to find out more about how you think & your ability to do the job.

[Cloverjo]

Thanks for all answers.

[Maydup]

Yes ask for more time, and explain to the manager. What would you have answered?

[Old_Geezer]

Depends on how urgent, "urgent" was. Talk it over with the manager. But as it's multiple choice you can just opt for the nearest.

(If they're hoping for c) then choose e) tell them you resign as you don't need that stress. c) is only for really urgent stuff where there is no alternative and is a once in a lifetime thing that pulls the company out of the mire. One can't expect a good result working tired, even with everlasting coffee pots.)

[Prudie]

In that scenario with those answers I'd pick d) but a better answer would be 'I'd review the tasks required and assess which took greater priority for the business needs'
It's all a bit unpredictable because if I think of the managers I work with some would be flexible and willing to accommodate the other colleague's needs whereas some would be well miffed that you didn't do their work first and even considered asking for time to help someone else first/as well..

[malagabob]

There are a lot of interview questions devised by psychologists to weed out applicants. Classic one is. Choose one £100 now or £200 in a years time. If you said £100 now go to the back.