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Openai·Software Engineer·Onsite - Behavioral / Leadership·Intermediate

Intermediate
May 2026

Summary

Behavioral round at OpenAI for a software engineer role. The interviewer was thorough and kept digging into every answer with follow-ups, which made even the straightforward questions feel like a lot.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

Tell me about a time you gave or received constructive feedback.

Conflict ResolutionAdaptability & Ambiguity
Author's notes

The follow-ups were relentless.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Choose a specific instance where feedback led to a positive outcome, ideally one where you both gave and received feedback. Use the STAR method to structure your story, emphasizing the actions you took and the results achieved. Highlight how the feedback improved your work or relationships, and what you learned about giving/receiving feedback effectively.

Pro tip: Show that you actively seek feedback and can separate your ego from your work—this demonstrates a growth mindset and low ego, which is highly valued at OpenAI. Also, when giving feedback, focus on specific behaviors and their impact, not personal traits.

1. Set the context

Briefly describe the situation and the project or task you were working on. Mention the people involved and why feedback was needed.

2. Describe the feedback

Clearly state what the feedback was, whether you gave or received it, and how it was communicated. Be specific about the behavior or issue.

3. Explain your actions

Detail what you did in response: how you listened, asked questions, and took concrete steps to implement the feedback or help the other person improve.

4. Share the outcome

Describe the positive results that followed, such as improved code quality, better team collaboration, or personal growth.

5. Reflect on the learning

Summarize what you learned about giving or receiving feedback and how it has influenced your approach since then.

Key Points to Mention

  • Specific example with clear context and stakeholders
  • Active listening and asking clarifying questions when receiving feedback
  • Focus on behavior and impact, not personal attributes when giving feedback
  • Concrete actions taken to implement the feedback
  • Positive outcomes for the project, team, or personal development
  • Growth mindset and continuous improvement

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.