How would you define, promote, and educate our clients on the key qualities of a great business leader?

"Through my years of working with high-level executives and CEOs and through all of the great publications I have read, I truly believe that vision is one of the key components of any great leader. Where many great managers know what it takes to get the job done and do an excellent job of conveying that message, a true leader has a vision for the future to drive business to new levels while also having the foresight to put that vision into action. While being a believer that having a true business vision comes naturally to the right people, I have worked with leaders on reflecting on their visions and giving them the tools to help project their vision into words with their staff. I'd love to bring these ideas to the leadership development programs here at Korn Ferry."

"In my experience working closely with high-level leaders at the organization I've worked with during my career, I'm a believer that the promotion of teamwork and cohesiveness is one of the key qualities of successful leaders. I've witnessed many teams and businesses fail because a leader was too stubborn to delegate work and trust others around them to help get a job done. For me, I've always stressed the importance of teamwork by promoting a trusting environment for my leaders and showing them the importance of not being the watch over your shoulder type of leader. I have many great examples of great leaders who delegated work and entrusted their staff around them to work cohesively as a team."

Prior to your interview, put some thought into the qualities great leaders possess. Rather than rattling them all off, speak passionately about which you feel are important leadership qualities, and how you'd promote them to your clients if hired for the position.

Each work environment and each team can vary. Offer examples from different settings. Avoid any blanket answers, and define your evaluative approach.