What Do You Think About Your Previous Boss?

Keep it balanced

Acknowledge something genuine and positive, and if there were challenges, frame them as differences in style or approach rather than personal criticism.

An example that works

"She was very detail-oriented, which pushed me to raise my own standards. We didn't always agree on pacing — I tend to move fast and she preferred more upfront planning — but I learned a lot from the difference in approach."

Why this question is a trap only if you make it one

Interviewers aren't necessarily expecting glowing praise. What they're actually evaluating is whether you can discuss a real working relationship without becoming bitter or unprofessional — because that's a preview of how you'll talk about them one day.