How do you think your early career will help you succeed in this position?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example
3rd Answer Example

Some professionals move between industries or have a history that is not seemingly directly applicable to the work they will be performing at Raytheon if hired. In these cases, the interviewer is interested to know how the experience gained and concepts learned within the candidate's early career apply to the open position at Raytheon.

Talk to the interviewer about your early work experience. Give a brief description of the type of work you performed and then offer a specific example or two of skills or qualities that are directly applicable to the position at Raytheon. Examples of transferable skills include industry experience, customer service, conflict management, communication skills, leadership skills, management skills, time management skills, and technical skills.

"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."

"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."

"I enlisted with the US Air Force after high school. The experience and values I gained there are invaluable. For example, I learned how to properly manage my time, how to work well in teams, and engineering basics. I also gained a first-hand perspective on the importance of the products that Raytheon develops. I feel this experience will help to add value to my work here at Raytheon if hired."