The way you and your boss get along can make a big difference in how well you do your job and grow in your career. Sometimes, interviewers will ask a question like, “How would your boss describe you?” to get a sneak peek into your work style and how others see you on the job.
We’ll break down what this question is really asking and give you tips on how to answer it. You’ll learn how to highlight what makes you a great fit for the job!
Why interviewers ask about your boss
Interviewers ask about how your boss would describe you to get an honest view of your strengths, work style, and relationships at work. Hearing how your manager sees you can offer insights beyond what you might say about yourself, especially since managers know your work habits and contributions up close.
This question also helps interviewers gauge how well you build positive, professional relationships—a key part of any job. By describing what your boss thinks of you, you’re sharing how you work with others and what it might be like to collaborate with you in a new role.
Whether they’re technical skills like data analysis or soft skills like teamwork, the goal is to highlight the qualities that match the job in your answer. Show that you have strengths you’ll bring to this position, making you a valuable part of their team.
How to answer “How would your boss describe you?”
Highlight specific qualities relevant to the job
Instead of a vague answer like, “My boss would say I’m a good employee,” be clear about the exact skills and traits that make you valuable to your team. Think of the qualities that align with this job and show your strengths, like being detail-oriented, a strong communicator, or a team player. Choose skills relevant to the position, and make sure they’re specific to the role.
If you need ideas, check out these posts on key skills in different fields:
- Top soft skills
- Top administrative skills
- Top marketing skills
- Top legal skills
- Top IT skills
- Top HR skills
Quote direct feedback from your boss
One of the best ways to capture your boss’s view of you is by using their actual words. Think back to positive feedback from a performance review, compliments shared in a team meeting, or language from a recognition award. For example, if your boss once praised your quick problem-solving in a team meeting, you could say, “My boss often describes me as quick to solve problems and someone who keeps the team moving forward.”
Give a real-life example that shows your strengths
Back up your answer with a short story that shows off the qualities you’ve named. For instance, “My boss was thrilled with the turnout at our annual donor event, which I organized from start to finish. It involved reaching out to over 200 donors and handling all the details, so I think my boss would describe me as organized and persistent.” Sharing real examples like this not only makes your answer more believable but also paints a picture of how you apply these strengths on the job.
How not to answer
Avoid mentioning a negative relationship with your boss
It’s important not to reveal any tension or challenges in your relationship with your boss when answering this question. Talking about conflicts or mentioning a strained relationship can make interviewers question how well you handle workplace dynamics. If your relationship with your current boss isn’t great, consider referencing another supervisor, mentor, or colleague who can speak positively about your skills and character. This way, you’re still providing a valuable answer that reflects your strengths without focusing on any negative aspects of past experiences.
Don’t exaggerate or use overly flattering language
While you want to present yourself positively, going overboard can make your answer sound insincere or unrealistic. Statements like “My boss thinks I’m perfect” or “They’ve said I’m the best employee they’ve ever had” may come off as bragging rather than being genuine. Stick to realistic, professional qualities that match your actual experiences. If you’re known for your attention to detail or teamwork, focus on those areas rather than overstating your accomplishments.
Sample answers to “How would your boss describe you?”
Example #1
“My boss would say I’m a strong communicator. She often asks for my input when she needs help crafting an important email or when she’s working on a catchy headline for our marketing materials. Just last month, she asked me to write our team’s section of the quarterly report, which made me feel confident that she trusts my writing skills and attention to detail.”
Why this works
This answer is specific, showing that the candidate is recognized for their communication skills and trusted with important tasks. By mentioning a real task (like writing part of the quarterly report), it demonstrates a strong level of responsibility, a key trait hiring managers look for.
Example #2
“My boss would describe me as a hardworking, creative team player. In my last review, she pointed out that I’m always ready with new ideas during brainstorming sessions and that I’m quick to help out when teammates need a hand. I think she values that I put in extra effort to support our department.”
Why this works
This answer highlights teamwork and creativity—qualities that are valued across many roles. By referencing a performance review, the candidate backs up their claims with feedback that shows their manager’s appreciation for their efforts. This kind of real feedback can reassure the interviewer that these qualities are genuine.
Example #3
“My boss would describe me as ambitious and eager to learn. Recently, I was selected to attend a leadership workshop, which was a huge opportunity. My boss encouraged me to go, which made me feel she sees my potential and values what I bring to the team.”
Why this works
This answer presents the candidate as both motivated and valued. By mentioning the workshop, the candidate shows that they’re proactive about growth and that their boss actively supports their development—a quality that most employers appreciate in entry-level hires.
Consider this question a chance to spotlight the qualities that make you the perfect fit for the role. Connect your best attributes with what’s needed for the job and use real examples to help the hiring manager picture you on their team.