When have you had to lead by example?
The interviewer wants to know that you are aware of the need to always lead by example.
'All the time!' As a leader, your actions, decisions, and demeanour are always under some form of scrutiny. The most stressful workplace situations often surround change so it's a great idea to talk about a time when your organization went through a major change. Change can be very challenging for some people. Discuss how you accept change with a positive attitude.
Perhaps a new software system was being implemented. Maybe your company was being acquired. Perhaps a change occurred in your senior leadership. Talk about how easily your team could have leaned towards negativity by becoming unmotivated, or acting fearful of the change. Highlight that you have genuine excitement surrounding the possibilities that come with change and that this excitement rubs off on your team.
"I lead by example every moment of every day! My sales team keeps a close eye on my actions and, in our industry, it is very easy to over-dramatize situations. Last year our company merged with a competitor and there was talk of pending lay-offs. Rather than show my stress, I encouraged my team to try harder than ever. I suggested that we show our corporate office exactly what we can do! We ended up being the number one sales team in our region which resulted in zero layoffs for our team."
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
In my previous job, there was a software change and my team was reluctant to use the new one. So, I suggested to stay after work and try to configure the application. I found some youtube videos that offered demonstrations on how to navigate this new software. In the end, my co-workers realized its more efficient than the previous software. The key is to understand that change is inevitable and sometimes is a good thing.
Rachelle's Feedback
Excellent example of taking the lead, and problem solving. Great response!
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