Question 1

Work Ethic

Accepted Answer

I take pride in doing a good job and being someone others can count on. I have always believed in giving my best, whether I’m helping a team, working with the public, or just doing quiet behind-the-scenes tasks. I care about the work I put out and how it reflects on me and the people I am working for. I also care about the quality of my work and the reputation I leave behind.

Question 2

Confidentiality & Discretion

Accepted Answer

I have always understood the importance of keeping things private and secure, especially in jobs where sensitive information comes with the territory. 
When I worked in a law enforcement setting, I handled things like restraining orders, warrants, people's demographics, case information and other sensitive paperwork, and I made sure it was always stored properly and never discussed outside of work.
In my own small business, I had to protect children's personal information and photos, and the parent's debit or credit information. I took that responsibility seriously.

At Aetna, I had access to HR-related personnel issues and payroll information, and would never consider sharing anything, not even with coworkers I was close to.

Question 3

Professionalism & Reliability

Accepted Answer

I take pride in being dependable and showing up ready to work. I am usually a little early so I can settle in and be prepared before things get busy. I follow through, stay focused, and treat people with respect, even in challenging situations. I have worked with all kinds of personalities over the years, and while not every dynamic has been perfect, I have always tried to stay professional. I don’t need to be micromanaged. I am able to handle my responsibilities without needing any reminders.

Question 4

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Accepted Answer

I am very comfortable talking with people, whether it is coworkers, supervisors, or the public. I am approachable and easy to work with, and I try to keep things clear and respectful no matter who I am dealing with. I ask questions when I need to, and I am not afraid to speak up if something is confusing or needs to be addressed. I have always believed that being honest, respectful, and kind goes a long way, and it helps build good working relationships.

Question 5

Customer/Client Service

Accepted Answer

I have worked with all kinds of people, including parents, police officers, supervisors, and the public and I always try to be helpful, respectful, and patient.

In dispatch, I spoke with people in crisis and knew how important it was to stay calm and get the right information without making anyone feel worse.

When I ran my own photography business, I worked directly with families and always tried to make the experience feel personal. I often brought snacks and water to photo sessions, especially when young kids were involved. I usually included a free photo product, like a magnet or an extra 5x7, just as a little thank you.

I try to listen, explain things clearly, and make people feel like they are being heard. Even if I can’t fix the whole situation, I do what I can to make the interaction a positive one.

Question 6

Time Management

Accepted Answer

I have always had jobs where managing time was a big part of doing things well. I am usually early to work so I can be settled and ready to go, and I like having a plan. I am good at figuring out what needs to get done first and keep things moving without getting overwhelmed or behind.

Question 7

Adaptability

Accepted Answer

In dispatch, there was a lot of training and a steep learning curve. I had to learn multiple software systems, radio codes, procedures, acronyms, and complete several certifications. It was a fast-paced job where things changed by the minute, and I had to stay focused.

Before that, I ran my own photography business, which meant adapting to all kinds of situations, such as photographing families, headshots in my studio, and some product photography, in addition to organizing large team photo events once a year. I had to adjust to lighting, locations, weather, and client requests on the fly.

Earlier in my career at Aetna, I worked in a structured corporate environment, where I followed specific processes and met tight deadlines.

Each role was very different, but I have learned how to adjust quickly, stay flexible, and figure things out wherever I am working.

Question 8

Multitasking

Accepted Answer

I have always worked in jobs where I had to juggle a lot at once. Whether it was answering phones, checking emails, updating spreadsheets, entering data, helping coworkers, or assisting walk-ins.

Keeping track of photo orders while coordinating with multiple teams, coaches, and parents on picture day was a huge task. I learned how to stay focused and keep things moving. I don’t get flustered easily, and I know how to pause one thing, handle a quick issue, and jump right back in.

Question 9

Problem Solving

Accepted Answer

I am someone who likes to figure things out. Whether it is a tech issue, office equipment, an unclear process, or just something that is not running smoothly. If I don’t know how to fix it, I will try a few things, Google it, ask a coworker, or even refer to old manuals. Now ChatGPT is an option too.

Question 10

Initiative & Self-Motivation

Accepted Answer

I have self-taught software and workflow tools to run my own photography business. I created systems for scheduling, invoicing, client communication, and delivery. I also had to learn to use a professional camera (Canon 5D Mark III). No auto button on this camera.

I recently saw SharePoint listed on a job description I was interested in so I took a LinkedIn Learning course to get familiar with it. I am always looking for ways to grow and be more useful, whether it is asking a coworker, searching online, or diving into a new system on my own.

Question 11

Organization & Attention to Detail

Accepted Answer

When I worked as a 911 Operator/Dispatcher, I entered sensitive law enforcement data, including preparing and inputting detailed information for warrants, and logged information into CAD/RMS during 911 calls or radio transmissions with police, including motor vehicle stops, accidents, and various other incidents. This included license plate numbers, driver’s license number, names, addresses, or sometimes even VINs. You have to listen carefully, type quickly, and still be exact. I am someone who pays attention, double-checks things, and understands the responsibility that comes with entering official information.

During the time that I had my own photography business, I coordinated a one-day photography event for 37 lacrosse teams (spring). Scheduled each team in 40 minute increments for a team photo and individual photos, managed the workflow of all photos, printing and delivery logistics. Everything ran smoothly, and all teams received their photos on time. I also photographed 52 soccer teams (fall) over the course of a month or so following the same workflow.

While working at Aetna, I prepared weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports that required me to obtain data from seven department managers. Ensured all figures were accurate and consistent before submission to the VP. Any inconsistencies were caught and corrected early.

Question 12

Project Coordination & Follow-through

Accepted Answer

When I ran my own photography business, I scheduled sessions, tracked orders, followed up with clients, and handled all the behind-the-scenes details that made things run smoothly, whether it was a head shot or an all-day event for the town's 37 lacrosse teams.

At Aetna, I coordinated corporate events from small groups to approximately 250 people, which meant working with vendors, managing logistics, and making sure every detail was handled from start to finish.

I like knowing what needs to be done and making sure it happens. In most of the jobs I have had, I have been the one keeping track of details, timelines, and follow-up. I track what has been finished and what is still in motion so nothing is forgotten. I like seeing things through from start to finish.

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Michele Talbot

Soft Skills