Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
TIPS TO PREPARE
TOP ANSWERS
OUR COACH SAYS
This question challenges you to think about how you act as a leader in your daily life. Even if you're not leading a team, you can still demonstrate the qualities of a leader!
Rather than just tell the interviewer that you are a leader in non-leadership situations, try a 'show and tell' approach. Give an example of how you coached a coworker who was having difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work!
Rather than just tell the interviewer that you are a leader in non-leadership situations, try a 'show and tell' approach. Give an example of how you coached a coworker who was having difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work!
Example #1
"I naturally take on a leader and mentor-ship type of role with my co-workers. In one instance, I had a new coworker who was having some trouble fitting in. I took her out for lunch and talked to her about the workplace culture and semantics surrounding the various departments. I wanted her to stay and enjoy her employment with us, so I took the responsibility of ensuring she was settling in well. I believe there are always opportunities for leadership - you have to keep your eyes open!"
Example #2
"I aim always to demonstrate my leadership abilities every day, even though I am a junior administrator. I strive to set a good example for my peers by performing my tasks quickly, without having to be told. I will also take charge when I see a task falling behind, which I believe is a good example of leadership."
Example #3
"I have been in a leadership role for most of my career. As a result, the actions of a true leader are now naturally ingrained in me. Every year I re-read Simon Sinek's book, 'Leaders Eat Last,' which has ingrained in me a foundation of leadership based on inspiration and creating a remarkable team environment. I am leading by example in all that I do, inside and outside of work."
Example #4
"I demonstrate leadership ability daily by effectively managing my projects and clients independently. This display of accountability is a good example to others, and it shows my leadership team that I can take the lead on a project without having to be encouraged by outside sources to perform."
Example #5
"I choose to lead by example, with or without any managerial authority presence. I arrive early to work and stay late when needed. I pitch in and go the extra mile whenever an opportunity presents itself. I feel this approach makes me a good teammate and a good human. This eager attitude also sets me up for a strong career trajectory. When the opportunity for a true leadership role presents itself, I have positioned myself to be top of mind for the promotion."
Example #6
"I want to be taken seriously as a business person and sales leader, so I must always lead by example. I never know who is watching! Leading by example applies to my time in the office, my activity on social media, or my actions at a company event. No matter what the situation or where I find myself, to be a true leader, I believe in acting like someone is always observing my actions."
Example #7
"As an elementary school teacher in a small town, I have to be very aware of my actions at all times. At work, while volunteering, grocery shopping, or going for a couple of drinks - I have my leadership hat on by acting as a positive influence."
Example #8
"Just last month I was asked to lead a shift when my superior officer was unexpectedly away. I took charge for two days, and the experience was quite positive. I believe the biggest success factor was that I tried to emulate his leadership style and did ask his help when I wasn't sure what to do. I feel this experience prepared me for a leadership role. I am excited to take on a team lead role again."
Anonymous Answer
"Leadership is about influence, so you do not have to be in a formal leadership role."
Lauren's Reply
While you make a great point, be sure to speak for yourself rather than in generalities.
Lauren's Reply
"I believe that Leadership pertains to group influence, which is a trait that does not require formal leadership. I consider myself a positive influencer in any work group, thus making me a consistent leader. I lead by example with the intention of adding to a positive and productive work culture."
Was this answer helpful?
Yes (1)
or
No (0)
Thank you
Anonymous Answer
"Having been in a leadership role for the past 20 years of my career, I try to show my actions as a leader at work, and outside of work as well."
Rachelle's Reply
Again, the right thoughts are definitely there but I do recommend working on completing the thought or concept.
Rachelle's Reply
"I have demonstrated leadership qualities for the past 20 years, as I make sure to act as a good example inside and outside of work."
Was this answer helpful?
Yes
or
No
Thank you
Anonymous Answer
"Yes, I demonstrate leadership qualities both in and out of work. At my current job, the staff has a lot of visibility because of all the community events we are involved in. Our pictures are often plastered on big banners and in the local papers, and we are often seen on the nightly news. If you go on the company's website, you will still see my picture with other members of staff. As a result, it makes me hyper-vigilant about putting my best foot forward in public."
Rachelle's Reply
This answer is excellent and showcases your mindful attitude when it comes to representing yourself and your employer at all times. Very well delivered response!
Was this answer helpful?
Yes
or
No
Thank you
More Interview Q&As
Explore expert tips and resources to be more confident in your next interview.
Behavioral
Common
Phone
Tough
Leadership
All Interview Topics
All Career Q&As
About Our Approach to Q&As
Our interview questions are created by writers, most of whom have a long history of recruiting and interviewing candidates. They do not necessarily have experience interviewing or working with the companies, careers or schools they may write for on MockQuestions.com. We strive to match our experts' background and expertise with the appropriate question sets found on our website.