Leadership Mock Interview

"I like to train in current processes before making changes. I know that my first question would be to ask what is not working. If I can see a quick fix to try, I will go after it, but I would likely still need to learn more about the business' operations and current struggles before making any changes."

"It's important for me to first understand the company culture, dynamics, values, and individual players, not to mention the short and long-term goals of the organization before making changes. I would wait for my onboarding process to be complete, then shadow the key players on my team and within the organization, to understand how the pieces fit together. I think it's essential not only to observe but also to listen to the team that predates me. I want to hear what they think is or is not working. Only after active listening and learning, watching, and evaluating would I begin to effect change."

"Being the newest person in the organization, I would be wary of making any big changes off the bat. That said, I'd look at what has happened in the previous years' calendar for marketing initiatives and how they impacted sales. I would sit down with the team to understand the goals for the next 3, 6, 9, and 12 months so that I can make my best recommendations on how to be impactful in the coming year."

"I would address any urgent and glaring issues immediately; however, I want to wait for the implementation of significant changes only after I have a thorough understanding of your organizational dynamics."

"I would take a week or two to observe my class before making any changes. I am wary of shuffling kids around too much as most tend to be creatures of habit that resist change. My changes might be in the form of introducing more multi-media and hands-on opportunities or perhaps swapping the seating arrangement."

Most organizations want to avoid onboarding someone who will make sweeping changes immediately. Sudden changes are hard on a team and can often result in knee-jerk reactions such as resignations.

Explain to the interviewer that you plan first to observe to gain a better understanding of the organization's culture and team dynamics. Focus your discussion on building a strong rapport with your new team.

If you are applying for a promotion within your current organization, you may already know what changes you would like to make upon receiving this position. Share with the interviewer what you have observed while in your current job, the changes you would make, and why you would make those changes.

"If offered this position, I do not believe that major immediate change would be the answer. My initial approach would be to have a 1:1 meeting with everyone on the leadership team. I want to learn what the greatest challenges are and how I can alleviate those difficulties. From there, the trickle effect will be strong, and we will see an increase in sales and employee engagement. Only after that first positive shift would I consider a stronger approach to change."