How to Answer: How would your most recent manager describe you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Boeing job interview.
21. How would your most recent manager describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question offers your interviewer insight into how you feel you are viewed by your management. While the opinions of your teammates, partners, and clients matter as well, knowing what your manager thinks about you can help your interviewer know if you are a self-starter, a good leader, a solid communicator, an excellent teammate, etcetera.
Additionally, your answer helps provide information that will be used to validate the authenticity of your responses after your interview. For example, a reference you provide might be asked if they agree with the answer you provided to this question.
Written by Karrie Day on May 31st, 2023
How to Answer
Hopefully, your current leader is open in their communication with you, allowing you to understand what they enjoy and appreciate when it comes to your work ethic. If possible, draw your response from takeaways from your last performance review or a piece of feedback you have recently received from your leader. Avoid 'guessing' what your manager thinks of you. In this interview with Boeing, try to relate the feedback you've received to Boeing's core values of excellence, accountability, safety, quality, and integrity. If you can, solidify your reply by referring to the reliable employment references you can provide upon request.
Written by Karrie Day on May 31st, 2023
Entry Level Example
"I believe my current manager would describe me as eager to help and eager to learn. I work hard to complete my work with a high level of quality, and I am always asking if there is more that I can do. I use any downtime I have to learn something new, or help out a fellow coworker. I look forward to approaching my work here at Boeing with the same eager spirit and commitment to quality."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my last performance review and also in some casual discussions, my manager has described me as motivated, encouraging to others, and consistent in my work. I strive to exceed expectations when I can, and I encourage my fellow team members to deliver their best work. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference should you want to talk with him."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 13th, 2021
Experienced Example
"My current manager would describe me as a utility player with subject matter expertise in a wide range of subjects. He knows I have engineering experience working with a multitude of technologies, and he often asks for my assistance with difficult problems and ambiguous tasks."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Business Analyst Example
"I believe my manager would describe me as detail oriented and thoughtful. I take the time to sift through the details of each process, dataset, and scenario I analyze. I have a keen eye, and I am skilled at finding themes within complex datasets. In regards to thoughtful, my manager knows I approach all of my clients and teammates with kindness and empathy. I take the time to listen and I work with them to find the best possible solution available. I feel these same qualities will be a valuable asset to my teams here at Boeing in the event I am selected for the open position."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Project Manager Example
"Based on my most recent reviews and conversations, I think my manager would say that I am a solid leader and trustworthy project manager. I have been asked to step in a rescue two separate failing projects within the past year. There were sensitive team and client conflicts on each project. My manager felt confident that I would be able to step in and address the problems within each team while simultaneously smoothing over the client issues. I was able to keep everyone's confidence while finding a way to get each of the projects back on track."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Software Engineer Example
"I believe my manager would describe me as curious. I am usually the guy who asks most of the 'why?' questions in a meeting. It is important to me to understand the why behind any solution I build as it helps me to think from the end user perspective and build additional quality into my deliverables. I would apply the same methods here at Boeing to ensure that the solutions I design are a fit for the needs of those that use them."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
About the Author
As a former technologist, I was excited when I learned I would be working on the Boeing Q&A set. I knew going in that Boeing had a strong track record of innovation and excellence when it comes to their use of technology, but I learned so much more when I dug in to research the company. Here are a few things that impressed me personally:
Product Development Process Maturity
I spent time digging through the open roles at Boeing and I noticed roles that indicate that the process of developing products at Boeing is advanced. They know their stuff! For example, they employ multiple levels of scrum masters. This means they assign highly skilled and advanced product development facilitators to teams working on mission-critical projects. Additionally, some of their teams utilize SAFe (scaled agile framework). This means Boeing understands how to bridge multiple teams together in a scaled agile setting for maximum collaboration and success. That's important!
Lean Practices
Boeing leverages lean principles within their manufacturing sectors, software engineering, and operations groups. This means they understand how to maximize value, ensure quality, and reduce waste. Each of these practices is good for the company, good for its clients, and in theory, good for the employees of Boeing.
Well Developed Careers Site
The career coach in me really appreciated Boeing's careers pages. They are very clear about what they are looking for in each of the roles listed. They offer a breakdown of responsibilities and the types of traits/soft skills needed. They use descriptive language such as 'relentless improvements' and 'thinking beyond boundaries'. They also offer salary range, benefits, and relocation assistance information. All of this tells me that Boeing is committed to identifying candidates that are a great fit for their needs and their culture.
Talent Development and Long-Term Career Options
Boeing has a strong internship program. This is a smart move in my opinion. They invest in bringing young talent in, showing them the world of Boeing, and then convincing the best to come back and work full-time. Programs like these help to develop future leaders, and Boeing isn't shy about their preference for promoting from within. They also have a well-developed leadership program, a healthy list of business resource groups, demonstrated commitment to hiring veterans, and several continual learning programs. If the idea of working your way up in a company like Boeing sounds appealing, they may be the perfect fit for you!
In summary, there are always new and exciting opportunities at Boeing that offer a wide range of benefits. No matter what type of role you are interested in, landing a job at Boeing results in an impressive addition to your future resume. I hope this Q&A set has helped you prepare and boost your excitement about your upcoming interview at Boeing. I wish you success, and I encourage you to keep Boeing on your radar in the future!
Learn more about Karrie Day