SpaceX Mock Interview
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Question 18 of 40
How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
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Mechanical Engineer
Manufacturing Engineer
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Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
This question tests your leadership style and what you would potentially contribute to their environment. Spend time reflecting on how you've successfully coached, motivated, or inspired those on your teams. Consider this quote from Elon Musk on the topic, surrounding the philosophy they embrace at SpaceX, and try to align your answer accordingly; "We want our leaders to find ways of motivating and inspiring their teams, reduce the noise in their work and help remove blockers. If you are a manager or leading at any level at SpaceX, we stress that your team is not there to serve you. You are there to serve your team and help them do the best possible job for the company. This applies to me most of all. Leaders are also expected to work harder than those who report to them and always make sure that their needs are taken care of before yours, thus leading by example."
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I like to encourage others to be creative and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I encourage others by praising their great ideas and helping them continue being their best selves. Noticing the small things is important. People want to feel like their contribution is important to overall workplace success. Like Elon Musk once said, if every time somebody comes up with an idea, it has to be successful, you're not gonna get people coming up with ideas."
Joseph Murphy is a NYS licensed Professional Engineer and 12 years of experience working on creating solutions in engineering and manufacturing environments
"I encourage others by being as honest as possible. During discussions, any idea that comes to mind is encouraged to be brought up. These ideas are then intentionally torn apart. We talk about all of the ways the idea will fail and everyone is given the chance to defend their idea. This encourages everyone to think about every idea and make sure the "easy" hurdles are overcome. It encourages all ideas and their defensible positions."
Control Systems Engineer @ Ram Aviation, Space, and Defense
"I encourage all ideas. I am happy to entertain any idea even if it may come off initially as just a half-joking whacky solution. I try my best never to sound condescending or dismissive of anyone elses ideas."
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