How would you handle a situation in which you were presented with new material or a new task that you didn't understand?
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Most employers encourage and even expect learning on the job, and Boeing is no exception. This question provides you an opportunity to demonstrate how open you are to learning, developing, and even being coached by others. Professional development and growing leaders are both highly valued aspects of employment at Boeing, so your interviewer will need to see that potential and desire in you. Use this question to display to the interviewers how you identify where your gaps of understanding are as well as the initiative you take to seek solutions or support.
Example #1
"I welcome the unfamiliar at work, because it means that I have an opportunity to learn and grow as a professional. When I first receive something like this, I often start by asking clarifying questions about the material or project to better gauge my level of understanding. After that, I might simply research on my own depending on the circumstances and my level of non-understanding. However, if it is particularly complex, or if my understanding is minimal, then I would seek guidance from a supervisor or colleague. I have so much to learn from others at work, and I always appreciate the opportunity to develop in that way as a professional when I'm able."
Anonymous Answer
"Recently in studying a computer language module on my HDIP which was online learning, I found quite difficult to grasp a recursion - I asked questions via online forum and found that other students on the course had similar issues, the lecturer responded and gave additional link to engage with the material, other students also contributed in some video sources."
Kristine's Reply
Great answer! The interviewer will be impressed you took the lead in asking questions about the material in your online course. I assisted slightly with wording.
Kristine's Reply
"Recently I was studying a computer language module on my HDIP as part of an online learning course, and I found recursion quite difficult to grasp. So, I asked questions via the online forum and found that other students taking the course had similar issues. The lecturer shared additional links to engage with the material, and other students also shared some video sources."
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Anonymous Answer
"In my last role, I was presented with an excel file which was difficult to understand. I went to see the person who created the file and asked for clarity on what was required from me. This worked."
Lauren's Reply
This is a solid answer. You are demonstrating resourcefulness and eagerness to learn. Awesome job. I made very minor grammatical edits.
Lauren's Reply
"In my last role, I was presented with an Excel file that was difficult to understand. I sought out the person who created the file, and asked for clarification."
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Anonymous Answer
"I would ask for more clarity about the material. I will do some research and also collaborate with others to discuss and learn about the material.
Once I have obtained the necessary information, I would then proceed with the task at hand."
Rachelle's Reply
Great! Your response will show the interviewer that you take the initiative when needed, and that you are open to asking for input from others.
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Anonymous Answer
"If I were being shown something, I would take copious notes and ask plenty of questions while the person was there. I would then tackle the task myself and seek clarification if I felt it necessary. If it were new material, I would take the time to read through thoroughly and make sure I 'got it,' again seeking clarification if anything was still unclear."
Rachelle's Reply
You show a strong ability to pay attention and take accountability for your learning. At the same time, a great ability to ask for help if needed.
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Anonymous Answer
"I am definitely not saying I know everything or even pretend to. I am more than willing to ask for help or clarification if I do not understand something. A clear and easy example is when I was moved to payroll, I had never done payroll. I had to be trained and trained a few times on steps. However, I am someone who tries to write down as much as I can to look back at later."
Rachelle's Reply
Another great example. Very good!
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Anonymous Answer
"When I don't understand something, I ask questions and restate my understanding to get confirmation that I got it right. When designing a system, there is no better way than a drawing to clarify obscure points. A whiteboard session is always beneficial."
Rachelle's Reply
Your solutions and approach to a clarification of information are wonderful - good use of helpful resources!
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