How to Answer: What steps would you take to make an important decision on the job here at Boeing?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Boeing job interview.
33. What steps would you take to make an important decision on the job here at Boeing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an employee at Boeing, your decisions on the job will impact others. It's important to express to the interview team that you recognize the weight of your responsibility, whether you are managing a team or leading by example in this role that you are interviewing for.
Written by Karrie Day on June 3rd, 2023
How to Answer
Prior to your interview, write out the steps that you consider when making an important decision on the job. Prepare yourself by thinking of examples of when you were faced with a difficult decision and explain the thought process you used in walking through the decision.
Be sure to align your response with the role you are interviewing for. For example, an analyst or systems engineer should include research and data analysis steps within their response. An entry-level candidate should include seeking guidance from more experienced team members.
Written by Karrie Day on June 3rd, 2023
Entry Level Example
"The first step I would take when making an important decision would be to make sure I understand the details of the situation. I would want to know who would be affected by my decision and the exact scope of the decision that is needed. From there, I would brainstorm a list of options and think through the potential outcomes. Given that I am relatively inexperienced professionally, I would also ask for guidance and support as appropriate before moving forward."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Answer Example
"Whenever I am making an important decision, I question how the company will benefit and how it will impact customers. I also check to make sure the decision is in line with the company's values. It's important to consider how the decision will impact the company. I take steps to address these factors before I decide what needs to happen next."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I am required to make important decisions on a daily basis in my role. If time permits, I step through all of the options and weigh the pros and cons of each option depending on the downstream impact and potential for value. I also discuss important decisions with the subject matter experts on my team, or with my peers. However, there are times when I simply have to lean on my experience and intuition."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Business Analyst Example
"I begin any important decision-making process with information gathering. This includes discussions with stakeholders or my team and analysis of any available data. My next step is to define the decision options and compare them to each other. Sometimes the comparison analysis is a formal process that involves ranking and scorecards. Other times this is a lite process I run through mentally. If am the one who will implement the decision, I then select the best option and develop an action plan to move forward."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Project Manager Example
"My process for making important decisions professionally typically begins with a mix of discussion and analysis. I consult with subject matter experts, peers, my teams, or my clients as needed. I then brainstorm a list of options either alone or with a team. I compare the value stream of each option and then determine the best way forward. Additionally, I always think about how the decision will be implemented and what strategic and tactical steps will be required for success."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
Software Engineer Example
"As a systems engineer, my first step in making important decisions typically involves working to understand the customer need, and/or requirements that need to be met. From there, I review the current state of the technical design of the system and determine the areas that will be affected when the decision is made. If the system integrates with other solutions, I consider the downstream impact to those systems as well.
Once I understand the situation technically, I develop a list of options. I sometimes need to do research if there is a possibility of incorporating new technology. I might also consult with fellow engineers or architects depending on the need.
Finally, I weigh the options from a technical and business perspective and make a decision or a recommendation for moving forward if the decision needs to be approved by a technical lead, architect, or stakeholder."
Written by Karrie Day on November 14th, 2022
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So before making a decision, mitigate risks where possible, communicate with others involved, get buy-in and have a plan in place for possible outcomes - have a plan B."
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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