How to Answer: What does leadership mean to you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an American Express job interview.
32. What does leadership mean to you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to assess what kind of a leader you are or what you perceive effective leadership as being. This will not only clue them into how you deal with those in positions of authority. It will also inform them on how responsible you would be in a leadership position.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
How to Answer
American Express prides itself on inclusion, teamwork, diversity, and equality. Customize your answer to these qualities. Leadership should be viewed less as a position of power and more so a position of responsibility.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
Stay Away From
Steer clear of us versus them statements. Avoid any elitist perspectives. If not in a leadership position, describe the qualities you find most admirable.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Leadership should be altruistic. We should never seek it out, it should be earned. In my leadership roles, I've always said to my staff that I don't consider myself any better than any of them. We're all equals. The only difference is that I have more responsibilities, a different pay grade, and a different function on the team. Inside and outside of work, we're all people, all equal."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Everyone has different talents and skills they bring to the team. A person in a leadership role is using their talents to direct, navigate, and coach. It's a job. But we're all on the same team."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 9th, 2022