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In this series, we break down interview questions and help candidates develop a strategy (and the confidence) for answering them. Our starting question is: “What’s your leadership style?”
Don’t let this question frighten you! It’s such an interesting one to be posed, and with a little thinking, everyone can answer it!
Who will be asked this question?
You might think that this question is restricted to CEOs, but this isn’t the case. If your role is given any kind of responsibility, expect to be asked this question. All jobs that require taking ownership is a potential candidate. This might mean managing the front desk, dealing with suppliers, or ensuring teams work well together.
Taking ownership is important at every stage in life. For this reason, you’ll rarely find a role where leadership isn’t relevant at all.
What are the different styles of work leadership?
There are many different styles of leadership, and each one will be appropriate for individual teams and tasks. Some prefer the carrot and stick approach. Such an approach involves being firm with their team while offering them incentives along the way. Others believe in guiding their teams towards greatness. This means working in a hands-off way to ensure that people take responsibility for their own tasks.
How to answer: “What’s Your Leadership Style”?
A recruiter will first be looking for a level of confidence in your answer. They need to know that you can steer others in the right direction. A team will always need someone who can justify or clearly explain why they make the decisions they do.
As with all questions asked at the interview, remember to provide case examples to back up your responses. Supplying examples of what you did in your previous job will tell your interviewer that you aren’t just good at leadership in theory—you also have examples to prove your expertise!
Don’t worry if you feel that you haven’t been a “leader” in the past! We have all been in situations where we must take charge. Think about the times you have listened, or made an effort to get to know and understand your team mates, or asked the right questions that helped you find a solution to a problem. These can all form the foundations for answering this question.
Resist the temptation to exaggerate your examples! Leadership doesn’t have to mean being the top dog. Remember that humility is a trait of great leaders.
End your answer on a positive note!
Whatever your approach, make sure you end with a clear intention to adapt to the work environment of the company. Showing a willingness to assimilate into the company culture will give you the best chances of getting the job.
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With our decades of experience in London’s finance and banking sectors, we help candidates reach their leadership potential. If you need a helping hand, contact us to learn more about our executive coaching offer.