How to Answer: What three qualities would your previous supervisor use to describe you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Correctional Officer job interview.
20. What three qualities would your previous supervisor use to describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks what three qualities your previous supervisor would use to describe you to see if you have the traits and characteristics they are looking for in a correction officer. If you review the job announcement before your interview, sometimes organizations will list the desired qualities they are looking for in a candidate. For example, if the job posting says they seek a dependable correction officer who is patient, honest, and a team player with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, you would choose three of those keywords in your response. Be sure to give examples of why your supervisor used those three words to describe you.
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
In your response, you want to focus on qualities the organization is looking for in a correction officer. If you have a letter of recommendation or past performance review, you can find the three qualities your previous supervisor used to describe you. If you have a copy of your letter of recommendation or performance review, you can offer it to the interviewer at this point.
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid using three qualities that the interviewer might deem unprofessional or inappropriate in this role. For example, if your previous supervisor describes you as a person who is always joking around and pulling pranks or consistently late to work, those would not be the best words to represent you.
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have not worked in corrections before, but I have a performance review from my previous supervisor where I worked as an EMT. He described me as a patient and compassionate employee with exceptional written and verbal communication skills. He noted that I was always patient with my coworkers and patients and provided empathy and compassion to everyone I came in contact with. He said he never needed me to revise a written report and that I actively listen and communicate clearly."
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Answer Example
"My previous supervisor wrote me a letter of recommendation, and I have a copy if you'd like. My supervisor described me as a dependable, hardworking correction officer with excellent interpersonal skills. She wrote that she could always count on me to show up to my shift on time, work overtime when needed, and maintain a good working relationship with the other officers and inmates."
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I believe my previous supervisor would describe me as an honest employee with a strong work ethic and leadership skills. I was always honest and dependable, and when I say I am going to do something, I follow through. I displayed my strong work ethic and leadership skills by leading by example, working alongside my team, and putting in extra hours when needed."
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022