How would you describe your current boss?

Question 16: -. How would you describe your current boss?

Alternative and related questions:

1. What do you think of your current boss?
2. What kind of a relationship do you have with your current boss?

The meaning behind the question:

The interviewer may just be idly curious as to what your current boss is like, but don’t count on it. They’re much more likely to be probing your perceptions of authority – and, in particular, how you handle authority. While seemingly innocuous, this is actually quite a loaded question. If the interviewer identifies you as having any problems with authority then it’s going to be a big, black mark on your application.

Your answer:

This is most certainly not the same question as the ‘tough’ alternative, ‘What are your current boss’s weaknesses?’ that we cover in the next chapter – and you should most certainly be avoiding making any disparaging comments. Regardless of what a loser you might think your boss is, it isn’t going to get you anywhere to slate them. Statistically, having problems with their boss is the No. 1 reason people give for changing jobs. However, you’d do well just to give a reasonably complimentary description and portray a positive working relationship between the two of you.

Example:

I’m fortunate to have a pretty positive working relationship with my boss. She gives me a high degree of latitude to get on with my job while always being there to help me with any unusual or difficult situations – to lend me the benefit of her experience. Like many managers, she’s often very busy but she does a good job of closely supervising her team, steering us in the right direction and helping us to achieve the results that are expected of us. I know she appreciates the work I do and this obviously helps to motivate me and to strive to achieve my very best.