Most interviewers are interested in cultivating their future leadership from within their culture. Therefore, questions such as these are intended to help them determine your leadership potential, and whether your style of leadership would complement or clash with theirs. How you answer could also offer clues as to whether you work well with, or have issues with, those in positions of authority.

Regardless of whether you have any interest in pursuing a leadership position with them now or in the future, your aim is to demonstrate occasions where you led by example, set the pace, exhibited integrity by doing the right thing, or took charge of your own development. Additionally, to showcase a strong work ethic by demonstrating your extensive knowledge and preparation for this interview, familiarize yourself with the leadership style they may elude to online, along with any leadership development opportunities they advertise as well.

If you are interested in moving into a leadership position or expanding on your already developing leadership experience, the AWPA has an "Emerging Leaders Academy, a national program offered by APWA that provides intensive leadership and management training within the context of public works. It encourages professional growth through a strong network of peers and offers an in-depth introduction to APWA at the national, chapter, and branch levels."