MockQuestions

First Time Manager Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your first manager job interview, here are 40 interview and answer examples.

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Question 9 of 40

How do you approach providing constructive criticism or feedback to others?

"I have been learning about the 3x3 method for giving feedback. With this method, I offer three strengths and three potential areas for development. I recently applied this method with a co-worker who often arrived late or called in sick. I let her know that I enjoyed working alongside her. I told her that our clients often complimented her customer service skills. I also said I appreciated her willingness to help me when our workload increased. Then, I proceeded to let her know that I felt disappointed and let down whenever she would call in sick, leave early, or show up late to her shift. I told her how it impacted my work and explained that her actions often meant that I needed to work late to reach our goals. She apologized and told me that she would work on her attendance. So far, her reliability has significantly improved, and I am glad that I approached her using this method."

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How to Answer: How do you approach providing constructive criticism or feedback to others?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Entry-Level Manager job interview.

  • 9. How do you approach providing constructive criticism or feedback to others?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      Giving constructive criticism and helpful feedback isn't as simple as it sounds. There is an art to providing feedback to others without making them feel defensive or put down. The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of this challenging task. When you provide constructive criticism, it's important that you:

      - Provide specific details about the actions that need to be changed.
      - Make the feedback actionable and set achievable goals towards change.
      - Provide a clear timeline for this change to occur.
      - Follow up regularly to ensure change is being made.

      Discuss any formal training you have received or a book you have read on the topic. Perhaps you use a particular methodology to deliver feedback that generates positive results the majority of the time. If you have a specific story-based example of a time you provided honest feedback with a positive result, be sure to weave in the details of this real-life example.

      Written by Rachelle Enns on April 16th, 2021

      Answer Example

      "I have been learning about the 3x3 method for giving feedback. With this method, I offer three strengths and three potential areas for development. I recently applied this method with a co-worker who often arrived late or called in sick. I let her know that I enjoyed working alongside her. I told her that our clients often complimented her customer service skills. I also said I appreciated her willingness to help me when our workload increased. Then, I proceeded to let her know that I felt disappointed and let down whenever she would call in sick, leave early, or show up late to her shift. I told her how it impacted my work and explained that her actions often meant that I needed to work late to reach our goals. She apologized and told me that she would work on her attendance. So far, her reliability has significantly improved, and I am glad that I approached her using this method."

      Written by Rachelle Enns on April 16th, 2021

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "I approach providing constructive criticism and feedback to others as if I was speaking with myself. That old adage, treat others as you would want to be treated. I consider how I would phrase the goals for improvement, using positive feedback, followed by areas for improvement to ensure that the conversation overall is empowering as opposed to correctional. Typically two positives followed by a needs improvement, but also asking how I could support them more to get them back on track, or to the place where they need to be in their position. I try and keep the conversation real and authentic, as I approach leadership and management as a supporting role most of the time, not a "boss" who "tells" employees what to do. I have always found people whether peers, coworkers, or students, if they are able to learn on their own, they perform better and with pride."

      Jaymie's Feedback

      Perfect! This is a great approach. Your response highlights your ability to communicate effectively, treat others with respect, and be a supportive manager.

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