We strive for direct and succinct communication in the workplace. Tell me about a time you explained a complex idea in simple terms.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

Albert Einstein once said, "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Your interviewer is asking this question to get a sense of your personality, communication style, and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terminology.

The first component of Coinbase's culture is 'clear communication,' which highlights how important this value is to the company. Active listening is also an important aspect of this pillar. Demonstrate your capacity to do both effectively.

"I strive for a straightforward and concise communication style with clients and colleagues. In my previous role as a financial advisor, I focused on listening to my clients and their most pressing financial needs and goals. I made an effort to echo their language and avoid esoteric ideas that I knew wouldn't be relevant to what they needed to hear. Above all, I ensure that my tone is never patronizing towards clients or colleagues. I often learn something new from those I work with and place great value on hearing their input."

"To communicate effectively, I strive to convey the essence of an idea in simple terms rather than deep-diving into the details of more technical matters. I've found this to be an important component of humility within the crypto industry. Furthermore, If I'm having trouble explaining a new concept in simple terminology, I've found that it usually means that I have more research to do myself. I place incredible value on continuous learning within the industry via publications, newsletters, podcasts, and conferences. Keeping myself educated allows me to explain complicated ideas in a way that makes sense to people outside of the industry."

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How to Answer: We strive for direct and succinct communication in the workplace. Tell me about a time you explained a complex idea in simple terms.

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Coinbase job interview.

14. We strive for direct and succinct communication in the workplace. Tell me about a time you explained a complex idea in simple terms.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Albert Einstein once said, "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Your interviewer is asking this question to get a sense of your personality, communication style, and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terminology.

The first component of Coinbase's culture is 'clear communication,' which highlights how important this value is to the company. Active listening is also an important aspect of this pillar. Demonstrate your capacity to do both effectively.

Written by Rachel Hills on February 11th, 2022

1st Answer Example

"I strive for a straightforward and concise communication style with clients and colleagues. In my previous role as a financial advisor, I focused on listening to my clients and their most pressing financial needs and goals. I made an effort to echo their language and avoid esoteric ideas that I knew wouldn't be relevant to what they needed to hear. Above all, I ensure that my tone is never patronizing towards clients or colleagues. I often learn something new from those I work with and place great value on hearing their input."

Written by Rachel Hills on February 11th, 2022

2nd Answer Example

"To communicate effectively, I strive to convey the essence of an idea in simple terms rather than deep-diving into the details of more technical matters. I've found this to be an important component of humility within the crypto industry. Furthermore, If I'm having trouble explaining a new concept in simple terminology, I've found that it usually means that I have more research to do myself. I place incredible value on continuous learning within the industry via publications, newsletters, podcasts, and conferences. Keeping myself educated allows me to explain complicated ideas in a way that makes sense to people outside of the industry."

Written by Rachel Hills on February 11th, 2022

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