30 General Dynamics Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our General Dynamics interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How do you define success?
How to Answer
General Dynamics is one of the top companies in the world, and they want to hire people who are winners, too. What does success mean to you? Tell the interviewer how you see progress and be sure to tie your answer into the success that you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Success is the completion of any task you set out to do or any goal that you set for yourself. Success receives interpretation in many different ways but I know I have been successful when I feel that relief and contentment only accomplishment can bring."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2. Which parts of your current position bring you the most stress?
How to Answer
Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. For instance, if you are applying to be a software engineer for General Dynamics, you should not find writing code to be the most stressful part of your day.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are taken care of."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I currently have a couple of delinquent team members who are on the brink of termination. I have tried to save them a few times, but now the HR department has become involved. I never like to see people leave, but you cannot force others to have a strong work ethic. The turnover in our plant is currently my biggest stressor."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would like to ask if there is anything in my background on which you need clarification? Also, after discussing everything today, is there any particular reason why I would not be the best fit for this software engineer role?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for asking! A couple of questions come to mind. What do you see as the biggest challenge the aviation and defense industry will be facing in the next 12 months? Also, what is your employee turnover rate, in this particular role? Third, could you tell me a bit about the retention plan you currently have in place?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. General Dynamics believes that a diverse workplace yields better results. When have you worked with a diverse group of people?
How to Answer
General Dynamics provides a lot of great information on their diversity and inclusion plan, on their website. You can easily see they are committed to promoting diversity across the board. One of their beliefs is that a diverse workplace yields better results than a workplace that is lacking variety. They want to know that you will embrace difference of perspectives in the workplace. Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life help shed different perspectives and identify potential solutions faster."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I currently have an extensive client demographic and company workplace culture. Everyone's needs are so different from the next. I have to be sensitive to varying cultures, genders, and religions. It has stretched me as a professional, and I wouldn't have it any other way."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Communication is one of the biggest keys to success at General Dynamics. When have your communication skills benefitted your team?
How to Answer
General Dynamics employs thousands of people which means that communication between teams needs to be crystal clear. The interviewer would like to know how your communication skills have benefited your team in the past. Strong communication skills are required to be an active leader, whether you are in a formal leadership role or not. How have your communication skills helped your team in the past?
If you are struggling to come up with an answer to this question, here are a few examples that should turn the gears and help you think of a time when you communicated a message that benefited your co-workers.
- Maybe you were the first to hear of new corporate policy, and you alerted your co-workers to the new changes.
- Perhaps you created an efficient way to streamline a process, and you informed your team about this.
- Maybe you found a new product or service that had a benefit to your organization.
- Perhaps you realized an error in a project, and you alerted everyone of this before it became a significant problem.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"We recently rolled out a large organizational change. I took a very transparent approach to communication throughout the process. I asked the team for feedback and buy-in, early in the process. We discussed some scenarios on what to expect. When the time came to roll out the change, there was minimal surprise with the new process. It was a success!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My clear communication style has greatly benefited my team and the company I work for because it helps me to exceed performance targets consistently while showing my team what stage of the project I am on at all times. When one person succeeds, the whole team benefits."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. Tell me about a time when you undertook a project that demanded a lot of initiative.
How to Answer
This interview question allows you to demonstrate your ability to be a self-starter. Show the interviewer that you are a motivated individual by telling the interviewer about a specific time that you took the lead on a demanding project. Include details of your project timeline, which you led, or what you had to teach yourself for the project to be successful. Be sure to complete your answer by telling the interview what the outcome was.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"We recently had a major inventory count requested of us by the corporate head office. At the time, our manager was away on holiday. No one quite knew where to start or who should take the lead. I took the initiative to lead my co-workers through the inventory project. I taught myself the tracking software in a short amount of time and created a schedule for the inventory counts, so everyone knew the expectations. We completed the project three days ahead of schedule! It was a great success."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I was recently tasked with changing our health benefits provider. Completing this project was crucial to our employees and our bottom line. I made a lot of calls and RFQs, and spent a lot of time hearing proposals to make the best choice before enrollment time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were asked to take on a task for which you knew very little. Have you ever had to take on a responsibility or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Include the outcome, and what you learned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When my manager went on unexpected medical leave for three months last year I was asked to step into her position in the interim. I knew the basics but was certainly not trained on the specifics of the role. I was able to take it on successfully by leaning on my team, reading a lot of company manuals, and asking many questions. Once my manager returned she was very pleased with the progress that I made. This success resulted in a promotion!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My first management job was the scariest time in my career! I honestly didn't know if I was doing my job correctly. I led by instinct, took leadership workshops, and spent a lot of time reading books related to effective people management."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. If General Dynamics hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you would be ready to make an impact in their department, immediately after being hired. It's important to come to an interview with a 30-90 day strategic plan on how you would impact the business, should you be the successful candidate. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"If hired today, I would start by analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter, and year to identify any bottlenecks or shortfalls in productivity. I would make corrections from there. Perhaps this will be in the form of creating better processes, implementing new applications for productivity, or simplifying the vendor process. This work will, of course, coincide with your biggest pain-points at the moment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"You mentioned earlier that staff training and retention had become a pressure point for your organization. I considered that and created a 90-day plan to increase retention while streamlining the training process via an online training manual with self-guided lessons. Would you like to take a deeper look?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. General Dynamics focus' on four fundamental values, that shape everything we do. What are they?
How to Answer
General Dynamics has a robust company ethos, based on four pillars. These pillars are honesty, transparency, trust, and alignment. On the General Dynamics website, they discuss how these four pillars drive business operations, govern how they act, guide how they treat their employees and connect with their communities. Make sure to memorize this information before your interview and discuss how your values align with these.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate that General Dynamics stands on honesty, trust, transparency, and alignment. I was raised on these values and apply them to my work, and personal life. The fact that your company applies these values to your business operations, how you interact with your employees, and the communities where you operate, is very motivating to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have taken a fair amount of time to research General Dynamics before coming here today. Your four fundamental values are honesty, trust, transparency, and alignment. The fact that your company holds everyone accountable for these is wonderful."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. How do you feel about relocation or substantial amounts of travel?
How to Answer
Although the company began in Virginia, General Dynamics now has offices all across the USA, Canada, and the UK. Whether you are flexible or not, in regards to travel, and even relocation, it's essential, to be honest in your answer. If you are unsure, it's okay to let the interviewer know that you are open to discussions surrounding travel or relocation, in the future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Relocation is something that I would consider in the future, depending on the circumstances and the opportunity. As far as travel goes, I am open to some overnight travel as required."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I recently relocated to San Antonio so, moving again I hope is not in my near future. As far as travel goes, I am very open to overnight travel. I realize that you have a few locations in this state so if you need a manager who goes between locations, I can certainly accommodate."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. How do you manage your time?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what tools you use to stay on task and meet deadlines. Share precisely how you prioritize when everything demands your attention at once. To start, think about the ways you manage your projects and daily tasks. Do you keep a calendar or set reminders?
Sometimes a to-do list is helpful when organizing your time because it can help you prioritize what needs to happen next. Paying attention to which tasks require the most time and which ones bring the most value are ways you can pick and choose what needs to happen in your schedule. What are some ways you have found work best for you to manage your time at work?
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Time management has been something that I have worked on improving since my time in University. I set goals for myself and attached a time deadline for those goals. Also, I am diligent with the use of my calendar and have a great scheduling app on my phone that I refer to as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. Are you actively interviewing with other companies, and are you close to offer stage with anyone?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for answers to a few points when asking this question.
1. The company wants to know what kind of timeline is present before you are scooped up by another organization.
2. They want to know how discerning you are with your job applications.
3. They want to know the types of roles that interest you.
4. They want to hear that they are your top choice.
You can certainly discuss your search but avoid giving too many details. Give the interviewer enough to satisfy the question without revealing your entire search. Some mystery is okay here.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I recently started my search and had found some interesting job postings related to my software engineering degree; however, your role is the position for which I am most enthusiastic. Because General Dynamics is involved in aerospace as well as defense, I see endless career growth opportunities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you are not interviewing with other companies: "I just started my search, so I am not in final interviews with any other company. I am aggressively seeking a new role but am discerning at the same time. General Dynamics is a top choice because you are one of the largest defense contractors in the world and your reputation for quality is second to none."
Written by Rachelle Enns
13. Do you believe it is possible to be a good team member yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
General Dynamics has a stringent hiring process, and they promote and hire only the best managers. Although their management team is well-oiled, there may remain times that you do not agree with a decision or how a situation is handled. The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic during times such as these.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time. Discuss that even if you disagree with the final decision your leader makes, you support the direction the team is heading.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. The professional reaction is to maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion. I understand that my leader may have information that I do not, or may see a longer range picture than I am able."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I think it is possible to get along with a leader without agreeing on everything, all of the time. What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree; however, you have to communicate your thoughts professionally."
Written by Rachelle Enns
14. What is your current salary?
How to Answer
General Dynamics may base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.
If you are currently employed: "I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you are currently unemployed: "My most recent position paid me a base salary of $45,000 plus overtime and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
Written by Rachelle Enns
15. Your workload will be large at General Dynamics. How do you balance life and work?
How to Answer
General Dynamics is the fifth largest defense company in the world with a multitude of clients. With a workload this busy, it is essential to keep a healthy work/life balance to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesn't feel like a chore. I am always sure that when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Not every day will be balanced, and I understand that. I find that I can achieve a great work/life balance most days when I take some time to do something for myself. Whether that be a quick workout, or cooking a delicious meal when I get home."
Written by Rachelle Enns
16. At General Dynamics we seek to hire only those with aerospace experience. Are you more experienced in the private or public aerospace industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have experience in the industry; whether your aerospace experience comes from private or public entities. If the job description or job posting from General Dynamics points out a preference of one over the other, it is wise to focus your answer on that particular experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I noticed in your job posting that you prefer to see experience in the public aerospace sector. I do have experience in both public and private; however, the most recent three years of my work experience is in the public sector. I have excellent knowledge of EASA and FAA aviation regulations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I can say that I have equal experience in both public and private aerospace matters. Is there a specific sector where you would prefer to see a stronger level of experience? I would be happy to highlight that experience for you, further."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
17. How do you think your early career will help you succeed in this position?
How to Answer
Did you start working at a young age? Perhaps you have held some tough jobs earlier in your career? Many hiring managers agree that the best employees are ones with 'grit' and who have held a 'dirty job' or two in their lives. Talk to the interviewer about your early work experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have been working since I was just 14 years old. My first job was as a shop hand for my father who was a mechanic. I had to sweep, clean, greet customers and order parts. It was a great way for me to get my hands dirty and I was taught excellent customer service skills from an early age. Everything that I learned during that time has helped me to stay grounded and humble in my career."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I started my career working in an office, so I was able to quickly understand how important it is to stay organized and maintain clear communication with everyone on the team. I believe my early experience will help me succeed in this position because it caused me to form good habits from the beginning."
Written by Rachelle Enns
18. If you were given a choice, which work related task would you leave for last? Why?
How to Answer
Often we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last, in the act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully move responsibility for last because we feel that it makes the most sense. Help the interviewer to determine which personality type you are by answering this question.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"If given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time with my customers so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my client-facing tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would leave my email to last! I find that once I am in my email, it's a never-ending whirlwind of small replies and to-dos. For this reason, and to remain focused and productive, I will schedule my email time periodically throughout the day."
Written by Rachelle Enns
19. Looking at your resume, it seems there are certain skills necessary for this position that do not stand out. How do you think you will be able to compensate for these missing skills?
How to Answer
Most job descriptions will have a long list of requirements. Hiring managers are aware that, to find a candidate that checks ALL of the boxes, can sometimes be impossible. If you are missing some of the 'nice to have' or even the 'must have' skills listed in the job description, do not fret! Be open about your shortcomings and discuss with the interviewer how you plan to compensate for those.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I realize that I may not check off all of the boxes for this position; however, I can assure you that I am a rapid learner. The main experience I am missing is in AvPro, but I am very well versed in another aviation program called Cirro. I think that I can pick up the required knowledge quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would be happy to clarify my experience in any skills. Could you tell me which skills you feel I am missing for this position?" (Once the interviewer responds, you can overcome that objection by better highlighting that specific experience, or discussing a related skill that you do have.)"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
20. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
How to Answer
Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am happy with my career progression. I have always been the type to set out a detailed plan for myself and take the required action steps to get there. This position is most definitely in line with my expected career progression."
Written by Rachelle Enns
21. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like recognition in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Some options can be through bonus' or financial perks, public recognition, kind words, or promotion opportunities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is through words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work makes a difference."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that most achievements are due to the great work of a team. If I gain recognition for my accomplishments, I always prefer that my team be a part of that recognition as well. Words of encouragement are always motivating."
Written by Rachelle Enns
22. Many of our industry competitors have their employees under a non-compete contract. Are you bound by any non-compete contract with your current employer?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to avoid any hurdles during the offer and negotiations stage that would prevent you from being successfully on-boarded. If General Dynamics is a direct competitor to your current or most recent employer, then you should carefully review your employment contract to ensure nothing is hindering you. Be prepared to present the agreement in your late stage interview.
If you are under a non-compete contract: "I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining General Dynamics."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining General Dynamics."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you are not under a non-compete contract: "I am free to sign any offer letter that comes my way as there is no such contract with my current employer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
23. Confidentiality is of utmost importance to us at General Dynamics. Are you willing to sign a confidentiality agreement, if hired?
How to Answer
If you work for General Dynamics, you may become privy to highly sensitive information. Assure the interviewer that you are a trustworthy individual who can handle being under a confidentiality agreement if hired.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am a highly trustworthy person. My background includes many years of experience working on sensitive projects. I fully understand the desire that General Dynamics has to protect their data and am more than willing to sign a confidentiality agreement."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am willing to sign a confidentiality agreement with General Dynamics, anytime in this process."
Written by Rachelle Enns
24. We are looking for a specific post-secondary degree for this role. Tell me about your post-secondary education and how it will help you in this position with General Dynamics.
How to Answer
It is vital that you check the job posting or job description provided by General Dynamics to ensure that you have the proper educational requirements. If you do not bring the desired degree or certification, be prepared to defend your education and remind them why you are still the best candidate for the job!
If you have the desired education: "I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have the desired education: "I have a Graduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Although my degree does not boast a primary focus on Aerospace, I do have significant industry training outlined on my resume."
Written by Rachelle Enns
25. Our goal is to be the #1 defense company in the world. After researching General Dynamics, what do you think we could improve on?
How to Answer
If General Dynamics asks for your feedback on what they could improve on it is best to keep your answer positive and light. Be sure to start, and finish, your suggestion with a compliment on what they are doing right.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have conducted a great deal of research on General Dynamics before meeting you today. I like how you position the company, and your online presence is strong. If I could make a suggestion, I would create a clearer interview package to provide your third-party recruiters. I believe the executive recruiter that called me could have had a fuller understanding of the role at the time of my first phone interview."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you could improve on anything, I would recommend updating the website more frequently and adding a blog for aerospace enthusiasts, which includes more lighthearted articles. Aerospace and defense is a popular topic for research for young students, and you could gain many website visitors by making the content more approachable and simpler to understand."
Written by Rachelle Enns
26. At General Dynamics we have some strong competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out from the others?
How to Answer
It is essential to research General Dynamics before your interview. Through that research, be sure to study some of their competitors and why you feel General Dynamics stands out from the crowd. Visit the 'News' and 'About Us' section on the company website to find out if they have received any recent awards or accolades. When it comes to the defense industry, their most significant competitors include BAE Systems, Boeing, Huntington Ingalls, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have seen that you have a few competitors in the defense industry such as Boeing and Northrop Grumman; however, after reviewing your website, online reviews, and seeing your multitude of recent awards I feel that working for General Dynamics would be the top honor and greatest step in my career. You stand out from the crowd for refusing to bend from your company values, based on transparency, trust, honesty, and alignment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"General Dynamics stands out in many ways. What impressed me the most was your safety record, employee tenure, and range of growth opportunities. When it comes to your competitors, such as Boeing or Raytheon, would you agree that these are stand-out areas for you? I would love to hear more about General Dynamics' future competition plan."
Written by Rachelle Enns
27. Because of the nature of business at General Dynamics, we conduct background checks on employees. This practice includes criminal background, credit, and education checks. Are you willing to comply?
How to Answer
General Dynamics employs around 100,000 people, all of whom must be background checked thoroughly. This company is the fifth largest defense contractor in the world so, of course, this is a non-negotiable. Much of the information you are going to access could be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I do not participate in drug use, either. If you hire me for this role with General Dynamics, I vow to maintain a clean record."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am willing to comply with any background checks that you require. I understand the importance of background checks for all General Dynamics employees."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
28. There are numerous career avenues you can take with General Dynamics. Which career path interests you the most?
How to Answer
General Dynamics has a multitude of opportunities within various companies and business sectors.
Their divisions include:
- Mission Systems
- Gulfstream
- Jet Aviation
- Land Systems
- Ordnance & Tactical Systems
- Information Technology
- Bath Iron Works
- Electric Boat
- NASSCO
- General Dynamics Corporation
- General Dynamics UK
It is essential that you thoroughly research General Dynamics before your interview. Be sure to examine their careers section, any additional locations, and the variety of departments or business units they may have. You can then accurately assess the potential growth opportunities with General Dynamics. Discuss your career growth and desires with the interviewer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I saw on your website that you are looking for an Engineering lead in your Land Systems division. I am not yet qualified for that level of a leadership role; however, it interests me. I would love consideration for a role like that in the future."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My primary goal is to become a Work Integration Manager in your NASSCO division within the next five years. I am taking additional coursework to gain the required skills, and am studying the logistics of the navy ship environment. Do you feel this is an achievable goal with your company?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
29. In your opinion, what is the biggest breakthrough in the aerospace and defense industry in the past decade?
How to Answer
General Dynamics is no stranger for being in the news for their excellent work! The interviewer wants to ensure that you hold strong knowledge, and genuine interest, in the aerospace and defense industry, and that you stay up to date on industry breakthroughs. Briefly discuss which one has caught your attention the most.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
1st Answer Example
"There have been endless breakthroughs in our industry; however, I would say the one that excited me the most was reading about the contract General Dynamics had with the US Navy to restore a satellite system simulator for their students. The fact that this technology helps students to build skills in space systems, and troubleshoot satellite issues, is fascinating."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 31st, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The biggest recent breakthrough in our industry, in my opinion, was the Falcon 9 Full Thrust; however, there are so many from which to choose! May I ask which was your favorite breakthrough as of late?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
30. The aerospace and defense industry is ever-changing. At General Dynamics, we seek to hire individuals with a keen interest in this industry. How do you stay up to date on aerospace-related current events?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to confirm that you have a genuine interest in the aerospace and defense industry. Perhaps you read aerospace-related books, follow particular engineering journals or subscribe to a blog related to this industry. Briefly share with the interviewer how you stay up to date on current events related to General Dynamics.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am always interested in learning more about this industry and the changes that are taking place. It's truly fascinating. Most frequently, I read the International Journal of Aerospace Engineering. There are also a couple of blogs that I follow including www.aviationweek.com."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Staying up to date on aerospace-related events is quite easy with a couple of phone applications I have downloaded, and a few blogs to which I subscribe. I would love some new suggestions as well! Do you have any strong recommendations?"
Written by Rachelle Enns