How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
This question focuses on your approach to teamwork and collaboration, as well as your leadership potential. How you answer will inform your interviewer whether you prioritize the goals of the team as a group, or an individual teammate's development for the greater good. Or do you prioritize your own personal ambitions and only coach your teammates when you stand to gain credit for it?
"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
"I am a motivating person and I encourage ideas in others by making them feel comfortable when it comes to speaking up and contributing ideas for the team. I also encourage my teammates to go the extra mile, cheering them on towards performing at a rate they didn't think was possible, simply by boosting their confidence when they come to the outer rim of their comfort zone."
Remember, every answer to every question is an opportunity to align yourself with their values and to showcase the lengths you went to prepare for your interview. For example, when it comes to this question, in sharing their values on their careers site, 3M states that their employees and teams "Think Loud Together. Every team is unique, which requires unique ways of working together. Check out our solutions designed to help teams channel their unique skills toward successful outcomes, no matter how complex the project."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I encourage the ideas of my colleagues during a normal conversation during a break. I try that they will be open-minded for any new ideas. That we are first trying it and then we will see.
Amanda's Feedback
With this question, the interviewer is trying to gain insight into how you encourage others to think creatively. The ability to encourage and support others is a valuable skill that employers value. You can strengthen your response by talking to the interviewer about how you promote creativity within your team. For example - Do you provide verbal praise and encouragement or send a follow-up email after a conversation to let them know you think they have a good idea? Do you ask for others' opinions? Do you encourage taking risks to support continued innovation?
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