How to Answer: Tell me about a time when your supervisor criticized your work. How did you respond?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an American Express job interview.
10. Tell me about a time when your supervisor criticized your work. How did you respond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This will help them evaluate how you deal with those in positions of authority. The way in which you frame your answer will clue them into your receptiveness to feedback, defensive or proactive, and what you learned from that feedback if anything. How you answer this question will help ascertain how well you would be able to communicate in the position you're interviewing for.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
How to Answer
Consider the example you give before offering it. Regardless of how reasonable or accurate the observation may have been, think before you speak. Be humble in your answer and not defensively. The key is to present yourself as calm and professional, with the goal of always striving to improve your performance and learn and grow.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
Stay Away From
Steer clear of examples where a supervisor was victimizing you or singling you out. Even if a supervisor's actions were misguided or inappropriate, this is not the goal of the question. This behavioral question is framed to see how you cope with feedback as well as your outlook/attitude and how important self-improvement is to you. Offering examples where you felt victimized, whether justified or not, may not present in the same context you're trying to relay. Your answer should communicate how well you get along with others, in ways that are not open to interpretation.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate the feedback. Now I know how I can improve next time."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
2nd Answer Example
"In my first position, just out of college, I was eager to learn but went into information overload. I dove into a new project and worked really hard towards an end goal, wanting to impress. But my approach to the work was all wrong. My manager explained where I went wrong. I felt bad and felt a little embarrassed. But I learned. Now I ask more questions, mirror their instructions back to them, ensuring the communication was effective. I take feedback in stride and learn as much as I can from any such experience."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022