What type of management style do you prefer?
There are many different kinds of management styles out there. The interviewer wants to know how effectively you will work under different types of managers. They are assessing how you will fit into their company. It's fine to give your honest opinion here, but it's also a good idea to indicate that you are adaptable and coachable.
"I've worked for several different managers at this point in my life, so I have experience with various kinds of management styles. Once I understand how my supervisor manages, I adjust myself appropriately. For example, at one of my previous jobs, I worked for someone who was very autocratic. He wasn't generally open to employee ideas or feedback, and he would constantly check in on the status of projects. Recognizing this, I would communicate frequently with him to provide him with all the details of what I was planning to do. If he disliked anything and made this known, I would adjust my plan accordingly. I have also worked for managers who were more collaborative and trusting. This is my preference; tell me what to do, and I'll independently move forward with getting the job done for you. While this is what I prefer, I am capable of successfully working with any type of manager."
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.
Anonymous Answer
I prefer a manager who meets with me individually to discuss my progress, current meetings, and any feedback related to my performance. A manager who is transparent, innovative, and instills confidence in me. I am adaptable, coachable, and willing to learn.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! Have you ever had a manager with this type of management style that you can mention? And why do you like one-on-one discussions? How exactly do they help you succeed?
Anonymous Answer
I worked for several managers throughout my career and I always try to understand their management style to adjust myself to them. For example, I used to work for a manager who prefer micro-managing. When I understood this, I constantly updated him about my progress/my next plan, cc'ed him in every email, and asked for his feedback regularly. For my preference, I prefer autonomy and collaborative styles.
Jaymie's Feedback
Good job! Your response demonstrates that you make every effort to work well with your leaders, and you can find ways to adapt to their leadership and communication styles.
Unlock all 30 Business Development Representative questions
Unlock expert responses that showcase your prospecting skills and sales instincts.
Get Started