Tell me about a time when you had to work under the supervision of senior designers. How did you contribute to the project and what did you learn from the experience?

Sample answer to the question

One time, I had the opportunity to work under the supervision of senior designers on a new product development project. My main contribution was assisting in creating design sketches and drawings based on their guidance. I also had the chance to participate in brainstorming sessions and design workshops, where I shared my ideas and received valuable feedback from the senior designers. Throughout the project, I learned a lot about design principles and problem-solving approaches by observing the senior designers' techniques and expertise. Their guidance and mentorship helped me improve my visualization skills and understanding of user-centered design. Overall, it was a great learning experience that enhanced my abilities as an industrial designer.

A more solid answer

In one project, I had the privilege of working closely with senior designers who guided and mentored me throughout the process. My primary contribution was utilizing my exceptional visualization and sketching abilities to create design sketches and drawings under their supervision. I actively participated in brainstorming sessions and design workshops, where I shared my ideas, received feedback, and incorporated their suggestions into my work. This collaboration allowed me to develop strong communication and collaboration skills, as I learned how to effectively communicate my ideas and work harmoniously with a team. Moreover, working alongside senior designers exposed me to their expertise and helped me gain a deeper understanding of design principles and problem-solving approaches. Their guidance expanded my skill set and improved my ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing designs. Overall, working under the supervision of senior designers was a valuable experience that contributed to my growth as an industrial designer.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's contributions, such as their exceptional visualization and sketching abilities. It also highlights the development of additional skills, such as communication and collaboration, which are important for the role of an industrial designer. The answer demonstrates how working with senior designers enhanced the candidate's understanding of design principles and problem-solving approaches. However, it could still benefit from more specific examples or projects that showcase the candidate's contributions and learning experiences.

An exceptional answer

During a project, I had the opportunity to work closely with a team of senior designers who served as mentors and supervisors. In terms of contribution, I was responsible for creating highly detailed 3D models and prototypes using advanced CAD software under their guidance. This allowed me to showcase my proficiency in 3D modeling and design software while learning from their expertise. Additionally, I actively participated in design review meetings where I presented and defended my design decisions, providing logical justifications based on user research and feedback. This experience enhanced my communication skills and taught me how to professionally engage in discussions with senior professionals. Working under the supervision of senior designers also provided me with a broader understanding of manufacturing processes and materials, as they guided me in making design choices that were both feasible and cost-effective. Overall, this experience exposed me to the intricacies of product development and refined my skills as an industrial designer.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes beyond the basic and solid answers by providing more specific details about the candidate's contributions, such as creating highly detailed 3D models and prototypes using advanced CAD software. It also highlights the candidate's ability to present and defend design decisions based on user research and feedback. The answer showcases a deeper understanding of manufacturing processes and materials, showing that the candidate not only learned design principles but also practical considerations. The answer demonstrates a high level of proficiency and growth as an industrial designer.

How to prepare for this question

Review and practice your visualization and sketching abilities to showcase your design skills.
Familiarize yourself with 3D modeling and design software, such as AutoCAD and Rhino, to demonstrate your proficiency in these tools.
Reflect on past experiences where you have collaborated effectively with a team, especially under the guidance of senior professionals.
Brush up on your knowledge of design principles and problem-solving approaches, as well as current trends in the industry.
Think about specific projects or examples where you have contributed to a project by applying your skills and learning from more experienced colleagues.

What interviewers are evaluating

Design skills and creativity
Collaboration skills
Understanding of design principles and problem-solving approaches