Boeing Behavioral Interview Questions & Answers
1. Talk about a time you had to work with new technology. What did you do to ensure proficiency as quickly as possible?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the aerospace, defense, space, and security playgrounds that Boeing operates in, technology is changing at a rapid pace. While your interviewer can tell a lot about your experiences by looking at your resume, they want to hear you talk firsthand about how you can adapt to new and changing technologies.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a time you had to learn new technology and ensure that your example proves your ability to study, learn, and master its use in short order. Then, explain to your interviewing team that you know you will be learning many new technologies in this role at Boeing and that you are willing and ready to be a great learner of any new technologies thrown your way on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I want you to know that I understand that I need to embrace the ever-evolving technology that you work with on a daily basis. I've always been enamored by great technological advancements over the years. Over the last two years in my current role, we've shifted and grown our manufacturing lines to produce kevlar and aluminum products, and these new product lines brought many technological changes that I had to learn. As we implemented the new equipment and processes, I became a student once again so I could hit the ground running from day one when manufacturing started. I asked questions and requested as much hands-on training as I could get."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
2. Describe a time you motivated yourself to complete an assignment or task that you did not feel like doing.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It's important to realize that Boeing puts in every effort to provide excellent service and products to their customers. With this excellence comes the need to focus on the fine details in your work. The interviewer wants to know that you will get the job done, even when you aren't excited about the task at hand. The goal of your response is to show that you are a reliable person who delivers high-quality work, regardless of how motivated you feel at the moment. By the end of your reply, the interviewer should feel confident that you are a self-motivated individual who takes accountability for your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to your interviewer about a specific situation in which you completed something you didn't feel motivated to do. Outline the situation, describe your responsibility, and explain why you were not excited about it. Be sure to tell the interviewer that, even though you were not enthusiastic about the task, you did it promptly and with care, knowing that it would help the organization as a whole. Give as much detail as you can about the actions you took to reach the finish line. If your hard work made a measurable impact, be sure to offer details about this accomplishment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current job, part of our project process is to have an initial discovery call with our clients. The call is supposed to take about an hour, but I tend to take up to two hours explaining our process to the clients. I began to dread these calls over time. I know that at least 50% of the call is not a good use of time for my team, myself, and my client. We spend so much time explaining our approach and less time talking to the client about their vision for the project. I decided to have our team create a library of resources for our clients. We would share these digital resources before the initial client call, allowing the client to learn more about our process upfront. Now, I spend much less call time relaying tactical information and more time getting to the necessary details. These calls are much more enjoyable and productive for everyone now."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
3. Have you ever witnessed a peer doing or saying something inappropriate? How did you react in that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At times during your interview with Boeing, your ethics and integrity will be evaluated. This question gives your interviewer some insight into how you would handle a colleague being inappropriate on the job. It will also allow the interviewer to understand the ethics you would bring to their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, put some thought into an ethical dilemma you have faced in your career that involved the actions of a colleague or team member. Remember that this example can come from your schooling or working career. Outline the situation and the swift action you took to make it right. Whether you confronted the colleague directly or decided to take it up the chain of command, discuss why you took that action.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I currently work out of a large shared office with my direct colleagues, and depending on the time of day and day of the week, it can be a busy place. One of my colleagues has been lackadaisical in the past about leaving his computer screen up with confidential customer information, notes, and pricing in full view when he walks away. Knowing that he is in direct violation of our company policy, I immediately lock his computer down when I notice this. I've also talked with him a few times about our institutional policies on this. Over the past year, he has been better about not leaving patient information up on his computer when he walks away."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
4. We embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce here at Boeing. How have you ever had to adapt when working in a culturally diverse environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As your interviewer reviews your resume and experience, talks to references, and learns more about you during your interview process, they'll be able to get a good idea of the skills and abilities that you will bring to Boeing. This question gives your interviewer a chance to look at your cultural fit for the organization and understand whether your values align with theirs.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Diversity and inclusion rank high on Boeing's priority list. Think about times you've thrived in a diverse environment, and come to your interview prepared to talk about how you value working with a diverse team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was happy to read that Boeing values diversity and inclusion as much as I do. From the time I entered my bachelor's degree program, I've loved and appreciated working closely with students and colleagues from around the world. We all bring unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to situations, and that allows us to be more efficient in problem-solving. If I am fortunate enough to join Boeing, I would love to be a part of these efforts."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
5. Have you ever had to handle a larger than normal workload for a short period of time? How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing often works under high-profile contracted work, and when a large contract gets signed, it can be mean that workloads can significantly increase around the organization. When this happens, time management skills are crucial for success. Your interviewer needs to be confident that you have the drive, determination, and resourcefulness to succeed when this inevitably happens.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about how you managed your time in this situation using the tools and resources available. Highlight how you utilized a team effort in the situation. Be sure your interviewer understands that you remain focused on the tasks at hand and provide quality work, even when things get hectic on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Time management is important for meeting deadlines and being successful. While there are general activities that are ongoing in my current role, I strive to put the needs of my customers first. When necessary, I adapt and remain flexible in my time management. For the past year, our workload has almost doubled due to staffing shortages and increased business. I managed this by handling one task at a time and remaining focused on the long goals. While it may have been difficult at times to not worry about other things, a focused mindset ensured the highest quality work out of me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
6. Describe a time you showed initiative at work when it wasn't necessarily required.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To earn the trust and preference of its stakeholders, Boeing prides itself on its willingness to go above and beyond to be innovative and game-changing for its customers. Your interviewer wants evidence that you are the type of person to take the initiative in the workplace. At Boeing, you will be relied upon to take initiative.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Taking the initiative could mean that you take on responsibilities independently without being asked or continually coached by your manager. It could also mean that you jump in and assume the lead before others do or before being asked. Tell the interviewer about a specific time you showed initiative in your work. Outline the situation, describe the task, and explain the actions you took. Give as much detail as you can regarding the positive results of your actions. At the end of your response, describe your high level of initiative and explain how this characteristic will benefit you as a new colleague at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Service to my community and the underserved is extremely important to me. During my college years, I organized community service activities with fellow students and was commended by our program for these efforts. One such program involved mentoring children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the community. I reached out to schools in the area to get an idea of the number of children in need of mentoring. Then, I developed a plan with the school administration and gathered other volunteers. While this wasn't a requirement of my program, the lives we helped will stay with me forever from this experience."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
7. Were you ever dissatisfied with the outcome of your work? What did you do to rectify the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A common theme you will continually see in your research of Boeing is the accountability of all employees. Boeing prides itself on respect, humility, integrity, and quality in all that it does. Your interviewer would like to get a sense of how you will handle failure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about a time you were unsuccessful in your work. Your interviewer would welcome an example from a work experience or an experience from your schooling. Briefly discuss the situation with your interviewer and describe how you reacted. Be sure to include the action steps you took to recover from the situation. Discuss what you learned from the situation at the end of your response. Then, explain how you will apply that lesson to improve the quality of your work at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am rarely dissatisfied with my work because I keep high standards for myself and what I deliver. With that said, I did face a tough learning situation in graduate school during a difficult semester of block scheduling. I had difficulty putting in extra time on a heavily weighted research paper due to a heavy class schedule. For a few weeks, I stayed up extra hours and lived on three to four hours of sleep each night, and the final paper I turned in didn't meet my expectations. A few days after I turned it in, I spoke to my professor about my paper and how it didn't meet my expectations. While I didn't expect a pity grade or the chance to resubmit it, it felt great to get the weight off of my chest. Looking back, I realize that taking care of myself and getting more sleep would have improved my work."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
8. Have you ever worked in an environment with little to no supervision?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At Boeing, you will be entrusted to solve real-world problems and be accountable for your work, often without your manager looking closely over your shoulder. Your interviewer asks this question to ensure that you have the ability and desire to work independently with little direct supervision.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about a time you were successful in your work, even when you lacked close supervision from your employer or someone in a position of authority. Then, ask the interviewer to describe the level of supervision their department receives. It is your responsibility to ensure that the amount of support offered in this position aligns with your needs. At the end of your response, explain how your ability to work independently will benefit the team at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I can think on my feet and make critical decisions on my own. Growing up and into college, I worked in our family business and was often in the store on my own. I learned a lot and soaked in as much information as I could from my parents, and they trusted me to run things. I feel prepared to apply that experience to this role at Boeing. Of course, I'm always ready to ask questions when needed and seek guidance from the experts here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
9. When do you feel you made the best impression on a new customer or colleague? Why was it important to do so?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The customers of Boeing are some of the highest-profile customers in any industry, and Boeing works hard every day to earn their customers' trust. Your interviewer knows that initial impressions matter in every aspect of their work, and they want to hear you talk about your ability to make a great first impression.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
First impressions are everything, and there are many ways to impact a new customer or colleague. Give a detailed overview of your approach to making a good impression. If you have work experience, consider telling a brief story of when you built a relationship with a customer or colleague. You should include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. At the end of your response, explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, my current organization went on a joint venture with another organization to provide services to a new group of customers. To kickstart this venture, I was tasked with partnering with their marketing director. After receiving their contact information, I decided to send an introductory email to the marketing director and request we meet in person as soon as possible. I welcomed her to my office, had a lunch planned, and set up two hours for us to discuss our partnership moving forward. We immediately hit it off creatively, and I was proud of the immediate connection I fostered."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
10. Talk about a time you were unable to meet a deadline on the job. How did you react, and what steps did you take to ensure this was communicated?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If your interviewer asks a question like this, the role you are interviewing for is likely a busy one with many competing priorities. Boeing stresses accountability from their entire workforce, from the beginning to the end of each project. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to know that you are accountable for your actions and openly communicated the missed deadline to those who needed to be aware.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Perhaps you merely underestimated the depth of the project, or maybe you faced a distraction at work. Discuss the case, what you did, and the outcome. Show the interviewer that you do not have a defeatist mentality. Nobody is perfect! The interviewers know that there will be times when deadlines pass and projects go sideways. They want to know how you reacted despite the initial failure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a data analyst in a busy setting, I had one day where I knew I wasn't going to be able to finish a data clean project that was needed on short notice from a leader. I immediately reached out to my manager to talk through my competing priorities, and we decided that it was best to ask a colleague to help. She was luckily willing and able to help, and after just a few minutes on a Zoom call together, she took the data cleaning project and ran with it."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
11. Tell me about a time you showed initiative by taking the lead among your team of peers. Why was it important to do so in this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At Boeing, you will be joining a large and diverse team of individuals, and the team will be made up of people with strengths and weaknesses. Your interviewer wants to see that you are confident enough to take the initiative to lead your team when the opportunity arises at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Describe a project or learning experience where you saw a chance to lead and took advantage of it. Talk about the success of the project and your biggest takeaway from experience. If you have a direct work experience where you successfully led others with success, be sure to talk about that experience with your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Growing up and into my college years, I was a natural leader to my peers. This is evident in my years of participating in team sports and being a team captain. During my internship last year, I didn't hesitate to take the lead on a project with experienced professionals in our field because it was a project that I was confident I had the skills to lead. Even though I was a subordinate on the team, I relied on my communication skills to take charge and instruct others."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
12. Have you ever had to work with an angry customer or colleague during your career? How did you successfully manage that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the high-stakes aerospace, defense, and security fields at Boeing, you will work with some brash and bold personalities, and these personalities can get downright angry. Because you need to have the ability to successfully navigate the inevitable angry person in this role, your interviewer wants to know that you can professionally handle stressful or uncomfortable situations with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Briefly describe a time you had to work with a person who was upset or angry. Highlight your ability to remain patient and rational in the face of conflict. Focus on the positive action you took and the resolution you came to with the person rather than details of the conflict itself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, I had to field a call from a customer who was unhappy with a finished custom order our team had completed for him. Upon answering his call, he used explicit language and was mad. At first, I was taken aback, but I didn't take his words personally and instead chose to hear the customer out. Through reflective listening, I repeated what I was hearing back to the customer and let him know that I would do what I could to make his situation right. Following our call, I immediately worked with my engineers and leadership to rectify the situation, and I was happy to call the customer the next day to let him know he would have a replaced order within five business days. He was pleased with that and apologized for acting out of line with me the day prior."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
13. When have you had to work in an environment in which you had to make split second decisions in a pressure-packed environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer will be looking for a candidate with the ability to be a great decision-maker in an intense setting. Because your work with Boeing will potentially be in a pressure-filled setting, your interviewer needs to know that you are resourceful and confident in your ability to make split-second decisions on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Answer this question by telling your interviewer about a specific time you had to make a split-second decision and made the right choice, despite being under unexpected pressure. Outline the situation, describe the last-minute decision you were required to make, and explain how you came to your decision. Tell the interviewer that you made a well-calculated decision, despite being under pressure. Give as much detail as you can regarding how you weighed the pros and cons of the decision. If your final decision made a measurable impact, be sure to discuss the results you generated.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I thrive in pressure situations and am looking forward to these situations at Boeing. My level-headed thinking and calm demeanor help me react well in pressure situations and help my team focus on the task at hand. In my first job out of college, we contracted with the military, and I was the main point of contact for many of our customers. With plans for projects changing regularly, I was trusted to make decisions over the phone on what could and couldn't be done. I had to be the expert on all of our processes, timelines, and costs."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
14. Talk about a time you had to learn something new within a short deadline. How do you think this experience help you transitioning to Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Given the industries that Boeing is thriving in daily, the amount of knowledge and skills that you will learn, develop, and master as an employee may be difficult to comprehend right now. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to know that you would be able to learn new skills under pressure and put them to use quickly at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Show your interviewers that you are willing to put in the time and effort to learn every new skill possible in this job. Think about a time you learned a new task or responsibility with little advanced notice. Discuss your diligence and actions to learn the content, task, or responsibility within a short timeline and explain to your interviewers why this undertaking was vital. Talk a bit about your ability to be a quick learner and why this is important in this job at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I can't tell you how eager I am to come work for the worldwide leader in aerospace and defense. If I am fortunate enough to come work for Boeing, I would bring an attitude and open mind, ready to learn new skills and put them to use right away. Last year in my current position, we had a short turnaround time to learn our new SCM system. With only four weeks of lead time, I was thankful to have a sandbox environment to play and learn in, and I took full advantage of that. I used many resources to guide me to hit the ground running when we went live."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
15. Tell me about a time you worked with a person who did things differently than you. How did you collaborate effectively?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Since everyone's work style is unique, it can be challenging to collaborate with everyone 100% of the time. Your interviewer wants assurance that you would join Boeing as the ultimate team player, regardless of personality or work style differences that you would face on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
The goal of your response is to describe your approach to collaborating with others while highlighting how your collaboration style will be a good match for this team at Boeing. Tell the interviewer about a specific time you worked with someone who approached their tasks or communication style differently than you. Outline the situation and describe why it was a challenge to collaborate with this person. Describe the specific actions you took to ensure a successful collaboration and the results of the collaboration.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current organization, I work closely with a person from our finance team who has a different work style than me. As I am a big-picture and idea-oriented person, her planned and detail-oriented approach made it difficult to propose capital project funding at times. I had to adapt my approach to outlining my planning and projected funding for new projects. I spent extra time in my research to ensure that no rework ever needed to happen with capital budget proposals, and we had a great working relationship because of my ability to adapt my style."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
16. Have you ever had a situation where being honest was difficult, but you were still upfront and honest?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Because of the industries that they operate in, Boeing has a distinct anti-corruption policy driven by honesty and integrity. If they are to seriously consider you to join their team at Boeing, your interviewer needs to know that you take honesty and integrity seriously.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview with Boeing, think about a situation in which your ethics were tested. Describe the situation and explain why you questioned being honest. Then, explain why you chose honesty while reiterating that you would work in the same fashion at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes. A couple of years ago in my current job, a close colleague, one that I had built a great relationship with over a few years, dropped in their productivity. I had a frank conversation with him to find out why productivity had dropped, and I didn't get much of a response or an answer. Over the next week, his work continued to pull the rest of our small team down, and I decided to approach our director about the issue. While it was difficult, to be honest with our leadership in this situation, I had to do what was right for our team and the company."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
17. Talk about a time you felt you could have communicated better on the job. What did you learn from that situation that you can bring to Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As you research Boeing before your interview, you'll quickly notice that themes of respect, trust, and accountability are common throughout their values. Your interviewer needs to know that you are a great communicator and aware of your communication shortcomings.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think back to a time you could have communicated better. Make sure that the situation you describe demonstrates that you learned a lesson and took action to make the situation right. No matter how you answer, make sure that your interviewer walks away from your time together knowing that you are cognizant that your communications are important as an employee of Boeing and that you will take every conversation at their organization seriously.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year was one of the busiest and most productive years for my current organization, and the sheer volume made things pretty crazy at times. I promised one of our field sales reps some information through email conversations, and while I made a mental note of my response, the fact that I needed to get him a response within a week never made it on my to-do list. The following week, he was upset and called me to let me know so. I took full accountability for not getting back to him and took the next hour to research his needs. I got back to him quickly, and he was very happy about my follow-up, but my mistake did not make me feel good at the moment. The hard lesson I learned that day was to always jot down notes of the promises I need to follow through on, even when things get busy on the job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
18. How have you proven your ability to build trust with previous coworkers?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing prides itself on the mutual respect the teams within their walls show each other and the integrity with which they operate. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to confirm that you will earn the trust and respect of your coworkers while displaying this same level of respect for them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are essential to nurture, develop, and grow. Talk to the interviewer about a prior work environment where you had to build a solid foundation of trust and respect with your colleagues. Demonstrate your ability to build trust quickly and show respect, common courtesy, a great work ethic, and solid communication skills with everyone you work closely with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a person that thrives in a team-based environment, building trust on a team is so important to the team's success and my success as an individual. When I joined my current organization six years ago, I came in as a very open, honest, and approachable new colleague on the team. I took the time to get to know my new colleagues and gave them some insight into who I am, both personally and professionally. As we began working together, I was always respectful of others' time and efforts and able to deliver on what I said I was going to do. Like here at Boeing, my current team feeds off of each other's work, and this level of trust and respect has been vital to our success."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
19. Talk about a previous role you've held where prioritizing strict safety protocols was important.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing remains more committed than ever to strengthening its culture of safety through continuous improvement, learning, and innovation. No matter what department you join at Boeing, their teams take a proactive and collaborative approach to promote safety within the workplace, and your interviewer wants to ensure they hire a safety-conscious colleague.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Your interviewer won't expect you to know all of the safety protocols at Boeing. They want you to be familiar with working under specific safety procedures and indicate that safety is a top priority. Be very specific when you talk about the safety procedures you have followed in previous jobs and explain why following those procedures was important.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current position, safety is always a top priority in my work. I have worked in an office setting and a production floor, so I know the safety protocols of both settings and follow them diligently. In this role with Boeing, I would be cognizant of all policies on proper safety gear and the proper use of tools and equipment necessary for the job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
20. Walk me through a time your communication style helped you secure a win on the job. How will your style of communication help you in this role with Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Excellent communication skills are essential for success in this role with Boeing because you will be working with many colleagues within and outside of your department. Your interviewer wants to hear how your unique communication style helps you be a natural leader, and they'll expect you to give a specific example of a time your communication skills provided great results in a team effort.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Your interviewer wants to hear that your communication style is well received by your team of colleagues. As you answer, demonstrate your ability to build meaningful connections, listen to others, speak with transparency, and show respect for others.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current role, we have undergone many policy changes over the past eight months due to a company merger. It is up to me to communicate all changes to the team. While communicating these changes, I have deployed a transparent communication approach. I describe my communication style as honest and often vulnerable. I show the employees that I do not have a private agenda, thus building their trust. I communicate my intentions, the intentions of the company's leadership team, and the end goal. Through my open and honest approach, I have been able to overcome negative stigma by being consistently honest, open, and transparent about the direction our company is heading."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
21. Talk about a time you took on an unexpected challenge in your work. How did you handle the situation, and what did you learn from it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In this role at Boeing, unexpected circumstances can arise at any time, and these circumstances can range from minor to significant. As they consider you for the position, your interviewer needs to understand how well you remain cool, collected, and solution-oriented when faced with new and unexpected challenges in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview with Boeing, think about a time you've had to display excellent problem-solving skills. Ideally, your answer to this question should focus primarily on your response to the challenge and not on the challenge itself. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate your adaptability in the face of adversity and ability to stay focused when things don't go as planned on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My current company has increasingly leaned on Zoom meetings and online platforms to collaborate virtually since the start of the pandemic. For the most part, it has been a great experience and an easy transition from our already tech-savvy approach before. One day, I was scheduled to present a new initiative during a team meeting, and my computer crashed 20 minutes before the meeting. I realized that I didn't have time to call our IT department and wait on hold, so I immediately began looking for another solution. Luckily, I had the presentation saved on SharePoint, so I emailed it out to the team from my phone and advised everyone to open the link while I was presenting. I joined the meeting through my phone, explained the slight hiccup to the team, and had them follow along on their computers. Despite the inconvenience, my solution felt seamless."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
22. Have you ever been in a position where you had to rely on your leadership skills for success, even though you didn't have a formal leadership title?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing prides itself on building leaders and promoting them to higher and higher positions within the company. The organization also places a strong emphasis on a team-based approach to growing and innovating its products. In asking this question, your interviewers want to see your initiative and potential to lead their colleagues when things get tough.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Given the sheer size of Boeing and the diversity within their walls, they are familiar with several leadership styles. Don't feel confined to share an example of a specific type of leadership you think they want to see. Instead, focus on an example that is authentic to you. If you have time, take your response a step further by indicating how you hope to continue to develop and refine your leadership skills with the exceptional guidance you can expect at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Early in my career, I volunteered at a science program for kids. I built great relationships with the students, other volunteers, and staff. One day, one of the kids suffered from a panic attack unexpectedly. I knew that the site manager was gone that day, so I scanned the room for staff to notify. The other volunteers started to panic, so I quickly stepped in to de-escalate the situation. I had a few volunteers take the rest of the children to another area to play and asked another volunteer to contact the site manager and guardians. While they were doing this, I approached the child with a quiet, calm, and open demeanor. I sat down next to him and told him I was there to listen whenever he was ready. After some time, he improved, and we were able to get him home safely to his family."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
23. Walk me through a work environment you've been a part of where interdepartmental communication and cohesion was necessary. How will this experience help you adjust to working for Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing is a multinational corporation with over 140,000 employees. When you work for a company of this size, there is no doubt that you will work with members of different departments or 'cross-functionally.' Your interviewer needs to know that you can work cohesively with your colleagues throughout the organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Boeing strives to 'innovate and operate to make the world better,' and that will require collaborating across teams and even time zones. Briefly share the circumstances of your example and heavily emphasize what went into making cross-functional teamwork a success.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current position, I work on a cross-functional team to create, plan, and execute an annual company-wide conference. We have members from several teams working from several locations, so maintaining strong communication is key to the success of our collaboration. Given our busy schedules and locations, we have minimal opportunity to meet as a group. So, we schedule recurring meetings at a mutually agreed upon time, ensure that at least one representative from each team is present, and share full notes and follow-up on our shared drive. We maximize technology to facilitate smoother transitions and timelines by utilizing shared calendars, shared drives, and group chats in Microsoft Teams to stay connected. As a result, we're able to hit our targets and execute the event each year without hiccups."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
24. Tell me about a work environment in which you had to be fluid and adapt to changes on a regular basis. How did this situation prepare you to work for Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In its pursuit of industry dominance, Boeing prides itself on innovation. With this commitment to innovation comes the natural requirement for every Boeing team member to be adaptive in their day-to-day work. Your interviewer wants to hear about a past work environment where being adaptable and open to change suited you well.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
To address this question, use a simple, everyday example from your prior work. This can include things like adjusting to the ebb and flow of a hectic customer service environment when company demands change throughout each season. Emphasize that you are flexible and adaptable! The interviewer wants to hear how you handled the stress of a promotion or additional responsibilities being added to your job description. These types of examples will demonstrate that you can efficiently adjust to a changing work environment. Make sure your interviewer sees that you're so calm and collected that nothing phases you!
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, our company was sold to a competitor, and a lot of our management team changed hands. It was a great deal of change to handle in a short time, and we were unsure of who to report to ahead of others. I am resilient, though, and have made the big changes work by keeping my head down and delivering great work, no matter who it goes to in the end. In this particular situation, communication was key, and I never hesitate to overcommunicate to colleagues and leadership."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
25. Talk about a time you successfully navigated conflict in the workplace. What skills did you use that you can bring to our team at Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing places a heavy emphasis on teamwork and building leaders. Due to the fast-paced nature of the work and the bold personalities you may work with, interpersonal conflict is bound to happen in this role. Your interviewer wants to hear about your ability to handle conflict in the workplace in a healthy manner and that you view healthy conflicts in the workplace as constructive.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a time you've encountered conflict at work and explain the steps you took to resolve it. Use an example that demonstrates your leadership and compassion when a conflict arises. Demonstrating your ability to analyze a situation and react appropriately, efficiently, and empathetically will set you above your competition for this job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In a previous position, I worked on a team that had challenges with power dynamics, interpersonal conflict, and trust. Unfortunately, the mid-to-upper managers appeared unaware of the tension and the damage to the overall team. I had only been in my position for a few months, and I could see how significantly the long-term effects of these dynamics impacted the productivity and morale of my colleagues. So, I set up an informal meeting with my coworkers to discuss the conflict within the team and glean some concrete issues contributing to the tension. With consent, I took those concerns to my supervisor in our next one-on-one meeting to seek solutions and mediation. She was grateful to have something tangible to work with and take to management, and from there, she was able to set up a team meeting to bring these issues to light and set some whole-team expectations to prevent tensions from rising again in the future. In less than two weeks, productivity, morale, and collaborative work increased significantly."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
26. Tell me about a time you reached a goal within a tight deadline. What did you learn from this situation that you can bring to our team at Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Excellence, accountability, and stability are all valued at Boeing. When you inevitably find yourself with a tight deadline working for Boeing, your interviewer wants to hear that you will be accountable for getting the work done and providing excellent results.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Imagine yourself racing to complete a project or task in this job at Boeing with only six hours left to reach the finish line. Whether you have experienced this type of pressure in school or the workplace, you understand the intensity. Before your interview, think about the steps you took in a situation like this to make a short notice project happen, and share the results in your answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, my current director came to me with a short notice design that a customer requested, and they wanted it within two weeks. Knowing that a typical new design from scratch could take four to six weeks, I immediately shifted around my current workload to accommodate this project and make it a top priority. The key to success organizing my full workload and prioritizing my work. I delivered the finished design in just eight working days, and my director and the customer were thoroughly impressed. If hired at Boeing, I would bring this same ability to meet tight deadlines while staying focused on my entire workload."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
27. Talk about a time you worked as part of a larger team to solve a problem or accomplish a goal. What role did you play on the team in this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The global efforts at Boeing to be an innovative and creative leader in the aerospace and defense industries require the ultimate teamwork throughout the organization. In proposing this question, your interviewer wants to hear that you can work as part of a larger team to solve problems on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Give an example that shows you are a leader and willing to ask for help when you need it. Humble leaders are hard to come by these days. Present the situation and explain what you and your team did to create optimal results. Talk a bit about the role you took on as part of that team to solve the problem so your interviewer gets a sense of the type of team player you will be at Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My coworkers and I worked together recently to resolve an urgent client situation. They had a problem with their production process, and my organization supported the maintenance of their production equipment. I shared the problem with my coworkers. I led the effort in researching their issue and how we could tweak the machinery to fit their new needs. My colleagues backed up my research with more facts and information to provide for my client. Together, we were able to gather additional information and make a great recommendation to assist my client."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
28. What would you consider the biggest win during your career, and what role did you play in that win?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing operates in high-stakes and competitive industries. By committing to its values and delivering excellence, Boeing seeks to earn and retain the confidence of its customers, suppliers, and investors. It is a workplace atmosphere that prides itself on winning. At some point during your time with them, your interview will want to hear that you will thrive in a culture that prides itself on winning.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk passionately about a situation you consider to be the biggest overall 'win' you were a part of on the job. Highlight what made it a big win and your role in making the situation a win. If it was a team effort, talk about the role you played on the team, and don't hesitate to talk about how the win was celebrated.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, I was a part of a small team that landed our largest client to date, one that grew our overall sales numbers as an organization by 10% last year. The win was a result of our sales pitch, and my part of that effort was creating the presentation we made to their board of directors. When the contract was signed, our leadership thanked my team at the next town hall meeting and gave us time to speak to our staff. I was honored to have received recognition, let alone the opportunity to celebrate the win as an entire organization."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
29. Talk about a time you faced an ethical dilemma on the job. How did you handle working through that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the landscape of large government, private business, and defense contracts at Boeing, the organization has developed a thorough code of conduct for its staff and day-to-day operations. Included in this code of conduct is procedural language on ethics within the organization. Your interviewer wants to get a sense of your ethics and how they will guide your work with Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Read up on the Boeing code of conduct for staff on their website before your interview. Think of a time you felt your ethics were challenged on the job. As you discuss the situation, highlight the personal dilemma and how you worked through the situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my first job out of college, it didn't take me long to realize that I had joined a toxic workplace culture where favoritism won over performance and bullying was overlooked. After becoming close with a few colleagues, I could tell that many were ethically challenged by the situation but kept quiet about it and kept their nose in their work. They also advised that talking to leaders about it would go nowhere. At that point, I began a job search for a company where respect, integrity, and a great culture were rewarded, and I'm happy I found that in my current employer for the past eight years."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
30. Boeing's commitment to sustainability starts with our people. When have you showed a commitment to sustainability in your work in the past?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Boeing is focused on and committed to innovating and operating to continuously make the world better for future generations through its efforts in social progress and environmental stewardship. Your interviewer wants to get a sense that you have a commitment to sustainability that you would bring to Boeing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
How to Answer
Relate sustainability efforts to the work you've done in the past that will prove your ability to limit waste on the job at Boeing. Your example could range from small-scale efforts like going digital to save paper to a large-scale effort like taking measures to limit fuel usage in a vehicle fleet. No matter how you answer, ensure that your interviewer gets the strong sense that you will commit to Boeing's sustainability efforts if you were to join their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm a firm believer in sustainability efforts in both my personal and professional life and loved reading about all of your great efforts here at Boeing. With my current organization, I've organized annual bike-to-work events and 10k runs that support local environmental groups with our staff. I've worked on a committee that focused our organizational efforts on recycling and limiting waste. As part of this committee, I've led waste audits quarterly for the last two years."
Written by Ryan Brunner on April 18th, 2022