How To Answer “Are You Willing to Travel?” Interview Question (With Examples)

When asked if you’re willing to travel for a job, your instinct might be to say yes. After all, the prospect of exploring new locations at the company’s expense can be enticing.

However, before committing to a travel-heavy role, consider the following:

Key Takeaways:

• In your response, emphasize positive travel experiences, demonstrate a clear understanding of the job’s requirements, and highlight networking opportunities.

• Avoid misrepresenting your availability, discussing negative travel experiences, or excessively embellishing positive ones.

• Before accepting the role, clarify travel percentages, any associated expenses, and the nature of the travel involved.

How to Answer “Are You Willing to Travel?”: Dos and Don’ts

When addressing this question from a hiring manager, there are essential points to cover and pitfalls to avoid. Here’s a guide to navigate your response:

1. The DO’s:

   • Share positive travel experiences. Employers seek candidates who are comfortable being away from home for extended periods. Share your enthusiasm for travel, like mentioning a study abroad experience, even if it was a while ago.

   • Exhibit a comprehensive understanding of the role. Remember, your travels will involve work. Acknowledge the job responsibilities that come with the travel and express your commitment to fulfilling them.

   • Discuss networking. Traveling roles often require building business relationships. Illustrate your networking skills and consider engaging in small talk during the interview to further showcase your interpersonal abilities.

2. The DONT’s:

   • Don’t exaggerate your travel availability. If extensive travel isn’t feasible for you, it’s better to be upfront rather than mislead potential employers. Communicate any constraints you have regarding travel schedules.

   • Don’t focus too much on limitations. While it’s important to be clear about your availability, avoid dwelling excessively on restrictions, especially if they may not align with the company’s expectations.

   • Don’t mention negative travel experiences. Save discussions about any challenging travel experiences for after you’ve secured the position. Highlighting these during an interview could raise concerns about your willingness to travel.

   • Don’t overstate positive experiences. While it’s good to share favorable travel stories, ensure they are relevant to work-related travel rather than purely leisure trips, as employers want to know you understand the professional nature of the travel.

   Employers want to ensure that you view travel as part of your professional responsibilities, not just an opportunity for leisure.

Example Answers to “Are You Willing to Travel?”

1. Example Response: Are You Willing to Travel?

   Yes, I’m absolutely willing to travel. I spent a year studying abroad before graduating last year, which ignited my passion for exploring new environments and meeting new people.

   During my internship at The Coastal Society, I regularly traveled to various coastal sites to collaborate with marine biologists. I found this aspect of the job invigorating, so I’m eager to integrate more travel into my professional journey.

2. Example Response: What Percentage Are You Willing to Travel?

   I am definitely open to traveling for work. In my previous sales role, I spent about 50% of my time on the road, so the 25% travel requirement for this position sounds manageable. I’d like to ask about the frequency and duration of the trips involved.

3. Example Response: How Much Are You Willing to Travel?

   While I love traveling and am willing to do so, my spouse works weekends, and I have three children at home to care for. Therefore, I would need to keep my weekends free for family obligations. However, I am more than happy to accommodate travel during the workweek.

What You Should Ask About Travel During Your Interview

The company’s travel expectations can vary widely based on the role. It’s essential to understand the specifics of the travel involved before proceeding too far in the interview process.

Here are several key questions to ask:

• Travel percentage. If a job listing states a 20% travel requirement, clarify what that means in practical terms. This percentage can represent varying travel schedules, so it’s vital to understand the specifics for the position.

• Expenses. Will travel expenses be reimbursed? What costs will the company cover, such as meals, gas, or lodging? Knowing the company’s policy on travel expenses is crucial before taking the position.

• Type of travel. Will you be flying, driving, or taking public transport? What locations will you be traveling to? Clarify if accommodations will be provided or if trips are short enough that overnight stays won’t be necessary.

What Does “Willingness to Travel” Really Mean?

There are two main categories of travel positions:

1. Seasonal jobs. These roles may exist only for a limited duration and could require extensive travel throughout that period.

2. “Regular” jobs that require travel. In these roles, the frequency of travel can vary significantly based on the specific position.

Consider the following expectations if you pursue a job that involves travel:

• Day trips might be required, but overnight stays may not be reimbursed. This could lead to long working hours filled with travel, potentially stretching your energy levels.

• You may be assigned distant locations and expected to manage logistics independently. This could limit your opportunities to explore new places, as time will likely be spent working.

• Relocation should not be assumed unless explicitly discussed. It’s crucial to differentiate between being willing to travel and being open to relocating.

Are You Willing to Travel FAQ

1. What does it mean when a job asks if you’re willing to travel?

   When a job description inquires about your willingness to travel, it typically indicates that some travel is necessary for the role. The extent of travel can vary, and employers want to gauge how your availability aligns with the position’s needs.

2. How do you indicate willingness to travel on your resume?

   You can demonstrate your willingness to travel on your resume by mentioning your previous travel experience. This signals to recruiters that you have experience traveling for work and may be open to it again.

   If you lack travel experience, you can include your willingness to travel in your resume summary. This approach is advisable if you’re applying for roles where travel is a common requirement, as it may otherwise seem out of context.

Final Thoughts

Travel can be one of the most thrilling aspects of a job. While it often involves compressing a lot of work into a short time frame, it can be an enjoyable experience when approached with the right mindset and preparation.

Understanding a company’s travel expectations is crucial before committing to a travel-oriented position. This not only showcases your proactive attitude but also helps prevent any misunderstandings about your comfort level with travel.

And remember, while you are out there exploring, stay safe and be mindful of your surroundings—adventures are best enjoyed with caution!

Best of luck with your job search! Here are more resources to assist you on your journey:

References

1. Illinois Graduate College – Sample Interview Questions

Author

Ryan Morris

Ryan Morris was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog who tried to make the job process a little more entertaining for all those involved. He obtained his BA and Masters from Appalachian State University.