Growth MindsetMid#39 of 60
Changing Your Opinion with New Evidence
The Question
“Tell me about a time when you had a strong opinion that you changed based on new information.”
STAR Answer Builder
0/4Practice your answer by writing each part of the STAR framework. At least 20 characters counts as complete.
Context
Intellectual humility is valuable. This question assesses your ability to update beliefs when presented with better information.
Why Interviewers Ask This
Stubborn engineers cause problems. Interviewers want to see you can change your mind when warranted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Claiming to never be wrong
- Describing a trivial opinion change
- Not showing genuine conviction before the change
- Not explaining what changed your mind
Answer Framework (STAR)
Describe your original strong opinion, the new information, how you processed it, and your changed position.
Sample Answer
Answer hidden. Try responding in the STAR builder first, then reveal to compare.
Key Points
- Have genuine conviction in the original position
- Be open to evidence that challenges your view
- Update your position based on evidence, not pressure
- Own the change without defensiveness
- Apply the lesson (be more open-minded)
Follow-up Questions
- What opinions do you hold now that might be wrong?
- How do you stay open to being wrong?
- What makes you change your mind versus dig in?
How well did you remember this?