We are highly collaborative at Raytheon. Can you describe your optimal team environment?

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

One thing that stands out in many of the job postings at Raytheon is that they rely on a team-based approach to develop solutions on behalf of their customers. Depending on the specific role you may notice phrases like 'must be able to work well with others' and 'leaves ego at the door' within the job description.

Your interviewer wants to know if you are ready to collaborate and appreciate the value of working closely with others. One of the best ways to identify candidates with views on teamwork that align with Raytheon's is to ask about an optimal team environment.

Describe several of the attributes you would expect to see in an optimal team environment. Be authentic and focus on the positive aspects you appreciate about working in a team over describing negative team experiences you've had in the past. Also, be sure to read the job description for the role you're interviewing for and mention any of the team culture terms used that resonate with your own take on an optimal team setting.

"I thrive in team settings and I genuinely appreciate how a collaborative environment can lead to better solutions than one could generate on their own. In my opinion, an optimal team setting allows for a balanced approach to teamwork. There is time to work independently and then the team comes together to share and take everyone's individual contributions further.
Optimal team environments allow everyone to contribute freely and they respect a diverse set of ideas and perspectives. Great teams support one another, celebrate successes, and are accountable for failures."

"To me, an optimal team setting is one in which everyone does their part and is willing to help others as needed. Everyone is free to share ideas equally and has the chance to be a leader in their own way. While my team-based experience is limited given that this will be my first major role after college, I feel confident I will be able to collaborate with my teammates at a high level if selected for the position here at Raytheon."