What did you like least about that job?

What they are looking for

With this question, the interviewer is seeking to discover the range of your motivation, in particular the lower end. They may consider this just in terms of how motivated or not you are and may also consider the area which does not motivate you with respect to the needs of the job.

This question often comes after 'What did you like most about the job' and they will contrast you answers to both questions. They may well watch how your body language changes between your answers.

How to answer

Don't say 'it was all equally interesting' as this will make you look either bland or trying to avoid the question. Do make the things you like least in a less important area.

Always, of course, take the opportunity to put a positive spin, for example in showing that the range and depth of skills that you have.

Of the many activities I undertook, I probably liked mowing the least.

A way of minimizing extreme appearances is to use relative descriptions. Do not say 'I disliked' -- rather say 'I liked the least' or 'I liked this less than that'.

I found mowing the lawns less enjoyable than planting out the seedlings.

You can also mitigate your response by explaining why one thing is more interesting than another (and hence emphasizing attractive qualities about you).

...I am particularly interested in plants, so mowing is a bit more of a chore.

Do also show that, whilst some tasks are less interesting than others, you are still motivated to do a proper and professional job, even in the more boring areas.

Even though mowing is not as interesting as seeding, I still take pride in work well done and enjoy completing a tidy and complete job.

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What did you like least about that job?

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What they are looking for

How to answer

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Quick links

Disciplines

Techniques

Principles

Explanations

Theories

And