Tell me about a time when you led a team. What was your biggest success factor?

"I work on the weekends as a volunteer coordinator for the local soup kitchen. Every Saturday morning, I check with the volunteers and ensure they are aware of their task for the day, and that they comply with our health and safety standards. Each week is a new group, and I believe that my level of detail and organization is the biggest success factor in ensuring a smooth service every weekend."

"Currently, I lead a team of 45 general laborers and the odd temporary employee. I have a minimal turnover in an otherwise tumultuous work environment. My success comes from the level of respect with which I treat everyone. I am available for questions, never raise my voice, and put a lot of trust in my team, that they will always make the right choice even when I may not be around."

"I led a team of three marketing interns this past summer which was a cool experience. I think I was so successful because, as a recent graduate myself, I understood which gaps to address in their education while keeping in mind the hands-on experience that they would need to be successful. I am observant to the needs of others and know that this skill will be very beneficial as I seek out more leadership opportunities."

"In my last position, I led a team of outside sales representatives. I implemented ride along's where I would shadow each team member for one day per month. This hands-on approach resulted in an average 20% sales increase per team member which made my sales director very happy. It always pays to show interest in your team members, individually, by investing time into their learning."

"I lead a team of students every day in the classroom! I am a successful educator, and class leader, because I listen, engage with my students, offer variety in each day, and show enthusiasm for the lesson at hand."

The interviewer would like to hear about a time that you led a team, with a positive outcome. Showcase for the interviewer the primary factors that made your leadership style a success. Your example could come from the workplace or perhaps a time when you led a group project during your post-secondary studies.

"Just last month I was asked to lead our day shift employees when my boss was away on sick leave. I took charge for two weeks, 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."

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.