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The key to answering "How would your co-workers describe you?" is to provide a sincere, evidence-based response that aligns with the job you're seeking. This common interview question is designed to assess your self-awareness and authenticity. A prepared answer, backed by real feedback and concrete examples, will demonstrate your professionalism and fit for the role.
Hiring managers use this question as a strategic part of the candidate screening process. It serves two primary purposes. First, it checks for consistency between the persona you present in the interview and the description you provide. As Sarah Baker Andrus, a director of external relations, notes, it's a way to measure if a candidate is "the real deal." Second, it gives the interviewer specific points to verify when they conduct reference checks. The alignment (or misalignment) between your answer and your references' feedback is highly telling of your credibility.
The most effective answers are not invented; they are researched. Instead of guessing, proactively gather information from former colleagues. Kathleen Steffey, CEO of a recruiting firm, suggests identifying co-workers who viewed your work favorably and sending them a brief, honest feedback survey. This provides you with genuine material.
If you're uncomfortable reaching out directly, review past performance appraisals to extract consistent keywords used by your managers, such as "collaborative," "detail-oriented," or "resilient." As Lee Perrett, a senior vice president at an executive search firm, advises, "Pick the best replies that can be tied back into the position or company you are interviewing with." Based on our assessment experience, consistency between your answer and what your references will say is critical.
Avoid simply listing adjectives. A strong answer uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to turn a descriptor into a compelling story. For example, instead of just saying "reliable," describe a situation where a team was under a tight deadline, the task you were assigned, the action you took to ensure the project was completed on time, and the positive result for the team.
Rick Moore, a senior vice president at a staffing firm, explains that "tangible, articulated examples" make an applicant seem more sincere and believable. Furthermore, you can use this question to showcase growth. Andrus suggests framing a response around a challenge you overcame: "My boss would probably tell you I didn’t get off to the greatest start, but by the end of the summer she knew she could count on me," followed by a specific example. This demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to improvement.
To master this question:
