How would you build a relationship with someone who intimidates you?

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

Raytheon serves as a contractor on projects that are mission-critical and at times, are the difference between life and death. As a result, some of the clients, co-workers, and customers you might work with at Raytheon may carry intimidating titles or personalities. Your interviewer wants to know if you can overcome feelings of intimidation and build strong relationships regardless of the people you work with.

We have all been in a situation where we find a co-worker, customer, classmate, or professor slightly intimidating. When you answer, clearly show the interviewer that you have the self-awareness needed to recognize when feelings of intimidation arise. One way to communicate this is by telling a brief story of a time you built a relationship with someone who intimidated you at first. You should include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. At the end of your response, remember to connect your relationship-building skills to how they will benefit Raytheon.

"I had a boss a couple of years ago who was very intimidating. I enjoy strong personalities; however, she didn't smile very often and was a bit flat with her emotions, which is sometimes hard to navigate. I don't think she meant to be, so I would remind myself before speaking to her that she was human just like the rest of us. This approach helped me to communicate with her with much less intimidation."

"As an engineer, I sometimes find myself intimidated when I am included in client meetings. I do not always have the business background information necessary to feel confident. Over time, I have learned that I am included because the attendees value my expertise. I ask questions when they discuss something I do not understand and they are typically willing to take the time to bring me up to speed. I think they realize that sharing information helps me to offer a higher quality response when I am asked for technical advice. Over time, we build trust and the relationship continues to evolve positively. I feel confident I would be able to take a similar approach here at Raytheon if hired."