Do you know anyone who has worked for Human Rights Watch before? What kind of feedback have you received on our organization?
This can be a tricky question to answer for any organization. If you have talked to an employee of Human Rights Watch, make sure to sandwich criticisms with praise. First, say something positive about the organization, and then say something that could be improved. Next, provide another positive example. If you have never met or talked to anyone who has worked there, show that you have done your research by perusing social media or websites like Glassdoor and observing what people are saying there.
"Although I am not personally acquainted with any current or former employees of Human Rights Watch, I did have the chance to read what others have written about their experiences and to examine the organization's profile on Charity Navigator. Employees overwhelmingly express their satisfaction with Human Rights Watch's commitment to the mission. I am excited about the possibility of joining a team that is laser-focused on its mission to advocate for human rights around the world. As with any nonprofit environment, I read that working with this organization requires an ability to wear many hats; as an employee, adaptability is one of my strengths and joys. With any organization I consider joining, I want to ensure leadership is transparent with financials, so I was pleased to see Charity Navigator assign high marks to Human Rights Watch in the areas of accountability and transparency."
"Employees on Glassdoor seem quite pleased with the organization's commitment to its mission of advocating for human rights globally. There are always ways to improve transparency with leadership and associates and to develop opportunities for advancement. When employees know Human Rights Watch supports their professional development, they are more likely to stay longer. Still, I was very impressed to see the overall enjoyment employees of Human Rights Watch experience at their workplace, and they consistently praise the seriousness and level of expertise amongst staff members."
It is critical when answering questions like this to make sure any negative reviews shared with the interviewer are coupled with constructive ideas for improvement. You don't need to heap praise upon the organization because that will come across as insincere. However, offering suggestions for improvement demonstrates you want to help the organization operate more efficiently towards advancing its mission.
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