Tell me about a time when your supervisor criticized your work. How did you respond?

"I appreciate the feedback. Now I know how I can improve next time."

"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."

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.

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.