Jessica sat across from the hiring manager, feeling confident about how the interview was progressing. Then came the curveball: “Are you willing to work overtime?” The question hung in the air as she realized this wasn’t just about her availability—it was a test of her commitment, flexibility, and understanding of workplace expectations.
As someone who’s sat on both sides of countless interview tables, I’ll guide you through crafting an authentic, strategic response that demonstrates your professionalism while protecting your boundaries.
Why employers ask “Are you willing to work overtime”?
Employers pose this question to gauge three critical factors: your commitment level, flexibility during busy periods, and realistic expectations about the role’s demands. They want to identify candidates who understand that certain positions require occasional extended hours, especially during project deadlines, seasonal peaks, or unexpected challenges.
Research indicates that approximately 73% of hiring managers ask this question during interviews, particularly for salaried positions and roles in demanding industries like consulting, finance, and technology. The question serves as a screening tool to avoid future conflicts between employee expectations and actual job requirements.
Beyond assessing availability, interviewers use this question to evaluate your problem-solving mindset and team player attitude. They’re looking for candidates who can balance personal boundaries with professional responsibilities.
Variations of “Are you willing to work overtime?”
Interviewers often phrase this question differently to gauge your flexibility and commitment levels.
- How do you feel about working beyond standard business hours?
- Can you handle occasional late nights or weekend work?
- What’s your availability for extended hours during busy periods?
- How flexible is your schedule when projects require extra time?
- Are you comfortable staying late to meet tight deadlines?
- Would you be available for urgent tasks outside normal hours?
- How do you manage work-life balance during demanding periods?
- Can you commit to additional hours when the business requires it?
- What’s your stance on working evenings or weekends occasionally?
- How would you handle competing priorities that require extra time?
- Are you prepared for the time commitment this role might demand?
How to answer “Are you willing to work overtime”?
The key to answering this question effectively lies in demonstrating flexibility while showing you understand the difference between occasional overtime and chronic overwork. Your response should convey commitment without appearing desperate or lacking boundaries.
Step 1: Acknowledge the reality of the role Start by showing you understand that most professional positions occasionally require extra hours. This demonstrates maturity and realistic job expectations.
Step 2: Express conditional willingness Indicate your willingness to work overtime when genuinely necessary, but frame it around business needs rather than as a blanket “yes” to any request.
Step 3: Highlight your efficiency Mention your commitment to productivity during regular hours, which can minimize the need for overtime.
Step 4: Ask clarifying questions Turn the conversation toward understanding their specific overtime expectations and company culture.
Step 5: Set realistic expectations Be honest about any constraints while emphasizing your flexibility within reasonable bounds.
Here’s how I would answer this question:
“Absolutely, I understand that achieving important deadlines and supporting team goals sometimes requires additional hours beyond the standard schedule. Throughout my career, I’ve consistently stepped up during critical project phases, product launches, and unexpected challenges because I believe in delivering quality results.
That said, I’m most effective when overtime is the exception rather than the rule. I pride myself on strong time management and prioritization skills that help me accomplish my core responsibilities efficiently during regular business hours. This approach has actually reduced the need for extended hours in my previous roles.
I’m curious about your team’s typical workload patterns. Could you share what percentage of weeks might involve overtime, and what usually drives those additional hour requirements? Understanding the rhythm of busy periods versus normal operations would help me manage my schedule effectively and ensure I’m fully present when those extra hours are truly needed.
I’m committed to this role’s success and understand that professional growth often requires going above and beyond. I just want to make sure my contribution is sustainable and strategic rather than reactive.”
This response demonstrates several key qualities employers seek: flexibility without being a pushover, strategic thinking about work management, genuine interest in understanding expectations, and commitment to both performance and sustainability. The answer positions you as someone who works smart, not just hard, while showing respect for both business needs and personal effectiveness.