Скачать или смотреть How would your boss describe you ? Interview question with sample answer.

TIPS ON ANSWERING THE “HOW WOULD YOUR BOSS AND FORMER COLLEAGUES DESCRIBE YOU” QUESTION?

When answering this question, it is important to remember:

THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU SPEAK

Take your time with this one. Don’t rush an answer because you feel quicker is better. Instead, you need to craft a response that is suitable, realistic and of course, truthful. Therefore, your answer to this question cannot be too fanciful or flattering. Nevertheless, it must be appealing and convey positivity.

REMEMBER YOUR PAST COMPLIMENTS

Think back to past compliments, praises, positive recognition and notes of appreciation you would have received from former bosses and colleagues. When you use their own words of praise to answer this question, it strikes the perfect balance of authenticity and positivity.

MENTION EMPLOYER KEYWORDS

Employers normally list keyword adjectives such as ‘honest’, ‘proactive’, ‘attention to detail’ or ‘customer-focused’ on their job descriptions to describe the personality they want to hire. Ensure these keywords are included in your response to make them notice.

TELL A STORY

Now that you’re ready to answer, don’t generically respond by saying, “Well, my boss would say I’m very hard-working and honest”. Instead, provide some context in your answer. Tell a story about a time you were praised or recognised for something you accomplished that earned your boss or colleague’s appreciation.

From that, your story acts as empirical evidence as to why former colleagues describe you in such a positive manner. Such evidence also acts as a further selling point as to why you’re the best candidate.

KEEP IT REAL AND RELEVANT

Chances are your former boss’ contact is listed on your resume as a reference. Any story or description you tell on their behalf is likely to be compared to what they will say when your prospective employer reaches out to them. The two answers must therefore align otherwise you risk being seen as dishonest. Only provide details that are true and can be corroborated by former colleagues.

OFFER RELATIONSHIP INSIGHTS

The interviewer is not looking for just adjectives. They want insight into what that working relationship was like. Therefore, a worthwhile tip after telling your story is to mention something that you admired in your former colleague. For example, you could end your story by saying, “My boss was really impressed with the work I had done and complimented my creativity. Naturally, I respected him for his leadership and taking me under his mentorship during my time there”.

Ending on a complimentary note towards your boss or colleague tells the interviewer that the working relationship was mutually productive and rewarding. Hiring this candidate therefore will result in the same within our organisation.

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