Explain What You Would Do Differently
Last updated: August 6, 2026
Quick Overview
The candidate is asked to reflect on a past experience and explain what they would have done differently in that situation.
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The candidate is asked to reflect on a past experience and explain what they would have done differently in that situation.
This question is often posed during onsite interviews to assess a candidate's ability to self-reflect and learn from past experiences. Interviewers at Google are looking for candidates who can demonstrate growth and adaptability, as well as a willingness to acknowledge mistakes and take responsibility for their actions. This question helps evaluate problem-solving skills and the ability to apply lessons learned to future scenarios.
What the Interviewer Expects
- Provide a specific example from past experiences.
- Clearly articulate the original decision and its consequences.
- Discuss alternative actions that could have led to a better outcome.
- Demonstrate learning and how it has influenced future decisions.
- Showcase a positive attitude towards growth and improvement.
Key Topics to Cover
How to Approach This
- Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
- Be specific about YOUR actions, not just the team outcome.
- Quantify your impact whenever possible (e.g., "reduced latency by 40%").
- Prepare stories for: conflict, failure, ambiguity, leadership, and technical trade-offs.
- Show growth mindset. Explain what you learned and how you changed your approach.
Possible Follow-up Questions
- Can you describe a situation where you did not meet expectations?
- How do you approach decision-making in high-pressure situations?
- What steps do you take to ensure continuous improvement in your work?
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