Tell me about a time when you helped someone in need.

This question is aimed at understanding your empathy, interpersonal skills, and willingness to go beyond your usual responsibilities to assist others. When asked, “Tell me about a time when you helped someone in need," the interviewer wants to hear about an instance when you have willingly stepped in to help someone else, preferably in a work-related context, but personal instances might also be acceptable. They're interested in your willingness to help others, your ability to empathize with those in need, and your problem-solving skills.

Here are some key points to address in your response:

1. Situation: Discuss the scenario. Who needed help and why? Try to choose an example that had significant impact, if possible.

2. Task: What exactly was required of you? What were the challenges?

3. Action: What specific actions did you take to help the person in need?

4. Result: What results did your help bring about?

This type of question follows the 'STAR' answer method (Situation-Task-Action-Result). It's crucial to provide thorough responses that tell a story about your experience.

In my previous role as a Project Manager, our team was under intense pressure to deliver a high-stakes project within a tight deadline. I noticed that one of my colleagues was struggling to keep up with the workload, which could risk the project timeline. He was new to the team and lacked some technical knowledge. I recognized his need and offered to share some of his workload and mentor him about the project's technical elements. I organized tutoring sessions after work for a week. Despite this extending my work-day, it led to an increased understanding of the project for my colleague and a valuable bonding experience for both of us. Ultimately, we were able to deliver our project on time due to the team's collective efforts.

While working as a Customer Service Assistant in a well-known department store, I once assisted an elderly woman who seemed confused and distressed. She was struggling to find some specific items on her shopping list and was finding it physically challenging to move around the large store. Noticing her discomfort, I took it upon myself to help. I walked her through the store, patiently assisting her in finding each item on her list. Afterwards, I requested and got permission from my supervisor to accompany her home in a taxi, as she lived nearby. The lady was extremely grateful for the assistance and even wrote a thank-you letter to the store management praising my helpfulness and patience. This incident has significantly improved my patience and empathy towards customers, especially the elderly and those in need of help.