When facing the classic interview question, “How would your supervisor describe you?”, it’s vital to convey your strengths in a manner that resonates with both your personal experiences and the expectations of potential employers.
This question is not merely a challenge but an opening to illustrate a narrative of your professional journey, focusing on your unique attributes through the lens of someone who has closely observed your work ethic and contributions.
The following page is designed to serve as an insightful resource for job seekers aiming to articulate a compelling and authentic picture of their capabilities.
Each suggested answer is rooted in real-world accomplishments and behaviors that supervisors often commend, offering a spectrum of positive attributes that can be strategically aligned with specific job descriptions.
How Your Past Supervisor Would Describe You: Top 10 Responses for Interviews
1. Team Player and Problem Solver:
“Based on previous performance reviews and regular feedback, I believe my supervisor would describe me as a proactive and resourceful team player. She has remarked on my ability to adapt to new challenges rapidly, and my strong analytical skills that have contributed to our team’s problem-solving efforts. In our last project, she appreciated how I took the initiative to coordinate with cross-functional teams which led to a 20% improvement in our project timeline.”
2. Adaptable and Resilient:
“They’d describe me as highly adaptable, able to navigate changes seamlessly and remain resilient in the face of challenges. My ability to stay positive and focused during transitions was something they valued.”
3. Results-Oriented Performer:
“My past supervisor would commend my results-oriented mindset. They appreciated my focus on achieving tangible outcomes and my regular contributions to improving team performance.”
4. Technically Proficient:
“They would highlight my technical proficiency, acknowledging my expertise in our field and my ability to apply this knowledge to practical, effective solutions.”
5. Innovative and Creative:
“My supervisor often praised my innovative thinking. They would describe me as someone who brings original ideas to the table and encourages creative problem-solving.”
6. Skilled Negotiator and Influencer:
“They might emphasize my negotiating skills and my talent for influencing others. My ability to craft compelling arguments and find mutually beneficial solutions was key to our team’s success.”
7. Analytical and Data-Driven:
“My attention to data and facts did not go unnoticed. My supervisor would mention my analytical nature and how it contributed to data-driven decisions that propelled our projects forward.”
8. Customer Service-Focused:
“They would note my customer-focused approach, ensuring that client satisfaction remained at the forefront of all business activities and decisions.”
9. Culturally Competent Team Builder:
“My supervisor would describe me as someone who respects and values diverse perspectives, actively promoting an inclusive and collaborative workplace environment.”
10. Accountable and Responsible:
“Finally, my past supervisor would likely speak to my sense of accountability and responsibility, trusting in my ability to own projects and see them through to completion without close supervision.”
Use these responses as a template to tailor a description that accurately reflects your work ethic and contributions, presenting a positive, well-rounded image of yourself to potential employers.
Tips for Answering “How Would Your Supervisor Describe You?”
When someone at a job interview asks how your boss thinks of you, here’s what you can do:
1. Start With the Good Stuff
Say nice things first:
- You’re reliable: You do what you need to do and do it well every day.
- You roll with changes: Even when things change, you’re still good at your job.
2. Show Your Skills
Talk about a time you did something great at work:
- You can fix things: Share a quick story about solving a problem at work.
- You’ve done awesome work: Tell them about a project you nailed.
3. Being Friendly at Work
Bosses like it when you’re good with the people you work with:
- Teamwork: Mention how you help your team get stuff done.
- Good talking: Say you’re good at listening and sharing ideas at work.
4. Real Praise
Use true compliments your boss gave you:
- Great feedback: If your boss told you you’re doing a good job, mention that.
- Kind words: Think of times your boss was happy with your work.
5. Link it to the Job You Want
Make what your boss would say fit with this new job:
- Match the job: Show how the good things your boss says are perfect for this job.
Just tell them about the good work you’ve done and how that can be great for the job you’re trying to get. Keep it real and make sure it’s about what they’re looking for.