JUNIOR LEVEL

Describe a time when you received feedback on your work. How did you respond?

Sample answer to the question

I received feedback on my work when I was working on a financial analysis project for a client. After completing the project, my supervisor reviewed my work and provided me with feedback on areas that needed improvement. I took this feedback constructively and made the necessary revisions to ensure the accuracy and quality of my work. I also sought clarification on certain aspects of the feedback to fully understand what was expected of me. This experience taught me the importance of receiving feedback as a means to grow and improve in my role. I appreciated the opportunity to learn from my mistakes and deliver a better end result.

A more solid answer

Recently, I was assigned a project to analyze the price fluctuations in the oil market using Excel. After completing the analysis, I presented my findings to my team. My supervisor provided me with feedback on the accuracy of my calculations and the presentation format. I took this feedback seriously and immediately revised my work to address the areas for improvement. I also took the opportunity to enhance my Excel skills by attending an advanced training course. This allowed me to optimize my calculations and create more visually appealing charts and graphs. Overall, I responded to the feedback by actively seeking ways to improve my work and enhance my skill set, which resulted in more accurate and visually appealing analysis.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a specific example of how the candidate received feedback on their financial analysis work and how they responded to it. They mention using Excel and attending an advanced training course to enhance their skills, demonstrating their proficiency in Excel and other financial analysis software. They also highlight their strong mathematical and analytical capabilities by addressing the accuracy of their calculations. However, the answer could be improved by providing more details on the decision-making and problem-solving skills used to address the feedback, as well as how they managed multiple tasks and deadlines during this project.

An exceptional answer

During a time-sensitive project analyzing agricultural commodity prices, I received feedback from my team lead on the need for more in-depth analysis and clearer conclusions. I took immediate action by gathering additional data and conducting further research to produce a comprehensive report. I also reached out to experts in the field to gain insights and validate my findings. To ensure timely completion, I prioritized my tasks, creating a schedule with specific deadlines for each stage of the project. Through effective time management, I was able to meet all the deadlines while delivering an exceptional report that addressed the concerns raised in the feedback. This experience further reinforced my commitment to continuous improvement and the ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a detailed and specific example of how the candidate received feedback on their work and how they responded to it. They demonstrate strong problem-solving and decision-making skills by taking immediate action to gather additional data and conduct further research. The candidate also highlights their ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively by prioritizing their tasks and creating a schedule. The inclusion of reaching out to experts in the field shows their proactiveness and willingness to learn from others. Additionally, the candidate showcases their strong analytical capabilities by producing a comprehensive report that addressed the concerns raised in the feedback.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with different methods of receiving feedback, such as performance reviews or regular check-ins with supervisors.
Reflect on past experiences where you received feedback on your work and how you responded to it. Identify specific examples that showcase your skills and qualifications.
Highlight your ability to learn from feedback and make improvements in your work. Demonstrate a growth mindset and a willingness to continually enhance your skills.
Practice discussing your response to feedback in a clear and concise manner. Focus on the actions you took and the outcomes achieved.

What interviewers are evaluating

Proficiency in Excel and other financial analysis software
Strong mathematical and analytical capabilities
Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
Strong team player with the ability to work independently