Workstyle Assessment Flashcards

You're behind schedule with something. Which of your work's components—the deadline or the quality—are you willing to forgo?

Answer: I never settle. Delivering top-quality work on time is non-negotiable. Instead, I would stay at work late and ask for help from my team.

This answer embodies Amazon's 'Insist on the Highest Standards' and 'Deliver Results' principles. It demonstrates an unwavering commitment to both quality and deadlines, refusing to compromise on either. The willingness to put in extra effort and leverage team resources highlights a strong sense of ownership and dedication to achieving excellent outcomes, which are highly valued at Amazon.

Which of the following best sums you up?

Answer: When I disagree with a decision, I will not hesitate to challenge the situation regardless of how tiring or uncomfortable it may feel. Leaders should be comfortable disagreeing with others in the workplace.

This choice directly reflects Amazon's 'Have Backbone; Disagree and Commit' leadership principle. It emphasizes the importance of constructively challenging decisions, even when it's uncomfortable, to ensure the best possible outcome. This principle values intellectual honesty and the courage to voice dissenting opinions, leading to more robust decision-making before fully committing to a course of action.

Every day at night, I think about how I can improve tomorrow.

Answer: Strongly Agree

This statement aligns with Amazon's 'Learn and Be Curious' and 'Insist on the Highest Standards' principles. It demonstrates a continuous, proactive mindset towards self-improvement and a dedication to personal growth. This reflective practice is highly valued as it drives individuals to constantly seek ways to enhance their performance and contribute more effectively.

Which of the following statements concerning training and development is most in line with your opinion?

Answer: Continued development and training are necessary at all times for everyone. Continued learning means continued improvements. When this happens, the company, the team, and the customers benefit.

This strongly supports Amazon's 'Learn and Be Curious' and 'Develops Others' principles. It emphasizes that continuous learning is a fundamental, ongoing requirement for everyone, regardless of current performance, and directly links it to benefits for the individual, team, and customers. This holistic view of development is central to Amazon's culture of growth and innovation.

Even though it could be uncomfortable or unpleasant to admit a mistake, I am willing to do so and I make a sincere effort to make things right.

Answer: Strongly Agree

This aligns with Amazon's 'Ownership' and 'Bias for Action' principles. Admitting mistakes demonstrates integrity and accountability, while making a sincere effort to correct them shows a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering results. This willingness to take responsibility and act decisively is highly valued in Amazon's culture.

My instinctive response when presented with a dangerous choice is to:

Answer: I value calculated risk-taking. I will weigh my options in an appropriate amount of time and then take action.

This response reflects Amazon's 'Bias for Action' principle, balanced with 'Are Right, A Lot.' Amazon values making timely, informed decisions and taking action, rather than excessive deliberation or inaction. The emphasis on 'calculated risk-taking' and weighing options appropriately indicates a thoughtful yet decisive approach, which is preferred over impulsive action or paralysis by analysis.

In new situations, I occasionally feel uneasy.

Answer: Strongly Disagree

This question assesses adaptability and comfort with ambiguity, which are crucial in Amazon's fast-paced, innovative environment. Strongly disagreeing indicates a high level of comfort, confidence, and resilience when facing novel or uncertain situations. This trait aligns with the 'Invent and Simplify' and 'Learn and Be Curious' principles, as new situations often present opportunities for innovation and learning.