Describe your ideal manager.
The interviewer is trying to understand your preferred management style; in some cases, the person interviewing you could be your potential manager, and this will help them determine if you would align well with them. Be sure you research Mayo Clinic's culture and if possible, research the background and education of the person you're interviewing with.
Consider past employers and the best leader you had. Think about what traits or habits they demonstrated that made them someone you enjoyed working with. In your response, explain some of the qualities you're looking for in a leader but also demonstrate that you're flexible and work well under different types of management styles.
"My ideal manager genuinely cares about their employees and their success. I once had a manager who, in our one on ones, always started by asking how my family was, and that meant a lot. She would also ask what was going well and what wasn't and took an interest in helping me succeed. I also value a manager with good communication skills. I appreciate when updates and changes are communicated, and my manager follows up when they say they will. I also respect a manager who mentors their employees, is available, and encourages people to ask questions when they need guidance. These qualities are all important to me as a new graduate nurse."
"I prefer a manager who gives me the training, tools, and resources to be successful and then trusts me to do the job. I appreciate being given autonomy while knowing I have the support of my manager and team if needed. I also value a manager who keeps lines of communication open, and I feel comfortable approaching if I have a concern or need assistance."
