Looking at your resume, you seem to be missing a few particular skills necessary for this position. How will you compensate for these missing skills?
Most job descriptions at Northrop Grumman have a long list of requirements. Hiring managers know that finding a candidate that checks ALL of the boxes can sometimes be impossible, and they pose this question to hear your thoughts on your shortcomings if you emerge as their top candidate.
"I realize I may not check off all of the boxes for this position; however, I assure you that I am a rapid learner. I am missing experience in Software ABC, but I am well-versed in another aviation program called XYZ. I think I can quickly pick up the required knowledge with a little mentorship and some hands-on time with your programs here at Northrop Grumman."
"I would be happy to clarify my experience and skills that would benefit me in this role at Northrop Grumman. Could you tell me which skills you feel I am missing for this position?"
If you are missing some of the 'nice to have' or even the 'must have' skills listed in the job description at Northrop Grumman, do not fret! Be open about your shortcomings and discuss how you plan to compensate for those. Successfully answering this question will require detailed research on the role you are interviewing for and personal reflection before your interview.
"As a new graduate, I would join Northrop Grumman with much to learn. But I'm very confident that my education and great internship experience have prepared me for success. From my first day on the job here, I will be a sponge that soaks in all information from my orientation and job shadowing with my new colleagues. I would be a moldable employee, willing to step outside my comfort zone to learn and grow into the future."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have repeatedly demonstrated my ability to come up to speed in rather challenging situations.
Kristine's Feedback
Solid answer. Every employer wants employees who can get up to speed in any areas that are new or unfamiliar to them. There are a couple of other options you have here to elaborate on your answer. You can mention any requirements from the job description that you don't meet and point out any comparable skills you have. You may also ask the interviewer if there are any areas where they feel you lack experience and offer to elaborate on those areas.
Unlock all 39 Northrop Grumman questions
Prepare for security-focused questions that aerospace and defense interviewers expect.
Get Started