What leadership experience do you have?
Whether you have formal leadership experience or not, your interviewer wants to gain a clearer picture of your leadership potential and how supportive you'll be with your superiors. This is regardless of whether yours is a union or non-union position. How you answer may also clue them to your experience level, and your understanding of the varying leadership styles and classifications. Lastly, if you are interested in growing into a leadership role, this will present you with an opportunity to express interest in their leadership training programs, which they advertise on their careers site.
"I have four years of experience as a freight conductor, leading teams of up to sixteen people at one time; primarily train crew. I have a vast amount of experience communicating with dispatch, ensuring that all loads comply with federal regulations and that schedules are aligned. Before that, I was a shift supervisor, and I was promoted to that within a year of starting my career for the rails."
"Are looking to grow in your career? If you're looking for the next step in your career, check out our Experienced First-Line Supervisor Program (EFLS)! The EFLS Program is designed for leaders with three years of experience, or two years of military experience, looking to support the nation by keeping our supply chain moving. Whether you've led a team before or not, we have development courses for you! We have the leadership training available to ensure you are prepared and confident in your abilities as you step into a new leadership role. At BNSF, we value the variety of skills and abilities that our dedicated leaders bring to the team."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
As an interim sup previously, I lead 12 individuals in maintaining and adhering to a schedule, adapting to changing job duties, and understanding the importance of not only keeping our clients' information safe but how it protects the company as well.
Marcie's Feedback
Wow! It's great that you have experience leading a team of 12. Is this the only time you've led others or have there been other instances you can mention as well? Also, consider talking more about your leadership style, how your team members respond to you, and how you facilitate scheduling and other team duties. Emphasize that you are a strong, decisive, and capable supervisor. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
"Being new to my career, the leadership experience that I have is informal and mainly during times when my supervisor is unavailable, or I need to help a new employee learn something new. I think that I am a natural leader because I quickly see where there is a need and where a potential issue could arise. I am proactive and have a keen eye for detail."
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent answer; however, to further bolster it, consider adding in an example of a time when you informally led others. Include specifics so the interviewer knows that you're capable of leading, even if you don't have a lot of formal experience in this area yet. You could also include an example from school if needed (like leading a team project). Good job!
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