What characteristics contribute to your success as a leader?

"In school, I was the go-to person on team projects and the person that would reach out to new students. I was Captain of my high school's tennis team, where I began learning what true leadership meant. I often received accolades from teachers and professors for exhibiting excellent character and citizenship throughout grade school and into my post-secondary education. I have carried these qualities into my adult life and showcase my leadership abilities by motivating team members, offering to help when I have the chance, and taking accountability for my work at all times."

"I have performed as a leader for as long as I can remember. For instance, I was often the person to organize and steer group projects in high school. You could often find me organizing neighborhood activities like street hockey games. I have always wanted others to feel they could rely on me, both in school and professionally. To achieve this level of trust, I often take on a larger workload to help my team. I focus on exceeding my targets which sets a positive example for my co-workers, and I am eager to do the same with Company ABC."

"My leadership philosophy is to act as a partner to any business and team that I support. This passion for making the right choice and leading by example has helped me see much success as a leader. I guide others with empathy, an approach that has helped me to achieve the lowest employee turnover rate in our company's history. By gently coaching others to improve and acting as a resource for anyone that needs help, I have been able to celebrate exciting leadership wins throughout my career."

"I love to set specific goals, and I do not stop until I achieve them. This quality requires self-confidence, and this confidence influences my team members at the same time. I bring a lot of enthusiasm to my work which naturally makes others want to do the same. Even when circumstances seem very trying, I keep pushing and trusting that our hard work will pay off. I have led several teams ranging from 5 to 150 direct reports, so I have evidence that my approach is effective in small and large teams. I am confident in my ability to produce and nurture a happy and efficient team, and I look forward to expanding my leadership experiences with your organization."

"I was raised to be an empathetic and emotionally present individual. Now, I encourage the same qualities in my students. The way I was raised worked to shape me as a caring and attentive teacher who can take the lead in a classroom while encouraging enthusiastic participation from my students."

The interviewer wants to know the characteristics that contribute to your leadership abilities. Think about the qualities and lessons you lean on when you face a challenge in the workplace. Perhaps you have the ability to self-manage. Maybe you keep a positive outlook during challenging times. Perhaps you overcame a significant roadblock in your career, teaching you the value of persistence.

Share with the interviewer which factors you believe have led you to your success as a manager. If you have a story to share, this question presents a great opportunity to weave in a real-life example highlighting your leadership capabilities.

"I had an excellent mentor from a young age. This situation was key in developing a strong foundation of confidence and natural leadership. Also, I have wholeheartedly embraced personal accountability. I believe that genuine leaders and managers who can make an impact are people who hold themselves accountable for errors, and they are not shy to ask the same of others. As a result, I have learned to trust my decisions and remain responsible for the choices that I make."

Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.

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