If you don't have any recent stories as an example for a time when you had to have a tough conversation or give bad news (nothing in a work context), can you use something from university days even if it's several years old?
Back to overview
18
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Hi there,
In general, I would try not to use stories older than 2-3 years. However it also depends on the options available. If you have absolutely no stories (or good stories) on that topic, then I guess you will have to use an old one.
In terms of the source of the story, you could also use stories related to your personal interests (eg volunteer activities or sport) if relevant.
I would prepare in any case a more recent backup story just in case (even if not as strong), in case the interviewer challenges you on the fact the story is old.
Best,
Francesco
Hello,
Ideally you would use something that happened in the past 1-2 years. This is the time horizon that's going to be most relevant for what you will be bringing to the new job. So to answer your question, it depends on how long ago you graduated, but unless you are less than 1 year out of university, I would advise to do your best to find stories from a work context. Otherwise you risk interviewers wondering why you haven't had such experiences since.
Hi there,
It depends on what “several” means! Most of your stories should be 2-3 years old BUT:
1) A few stories can be older (in particular, persuasion/conflcit stories)
and
2) You don't really have to say exactly how old it is (you can just say “I was working on x”)
Hi!
Yes, but only if you can't find a more relevant professional story.
Best,
Anto
