If I were to interview the people who have reported to you in the past, how would they describe your management style?
There are many management styles, and the interviewer would like assurance that your style fits well with their needs and workplace culture. Before your interview, you should have a solid idea of the type of leadership the company is seeking. There will be keyword indicators in the job posting, job description, and the hiring company's website. Use the company's terms and language as often as possible to build a connection.
Some management styles are:
- Democratic or Participative
- Authoritative or Directive
- Collaborative or Affiliative
- Pacesetting or Coaching
If you are unsure of your management style, try taking a free personality test like 16Personalities.com. By completing this exercise, you will gain a firm understanding of your personality highlights and the type of leadership style you possess, as well as the type of leadership style to which you best respond.
"I believe my team would describe me as a pacesetter or coach. I have strong expectations set for my team, and I motivate them to achieve these standards by showing my employees rather than just telling."
"At this point in my early management career, I have been emulating the actions of my management, and have taken the points that I like, implemented those and eliminated the parts I did not like. My team has responded well to me, and I think they would describe me as an affiliative-style leader. I like to try new ways to get my team members to bond with each other, creating a more cohesive team environment. We spend a lot of time together, so I believe it's important to establish trust and relationships among coworkers."
"If asked, I believe my team would describe me as a democratic-style leader. I like to involve my team in the decision-making process and do not believe in a leadership system built on hierarchy. Even my newest team members should feel empowered."
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
This is a question I often ask my team because my goal is to be collaborative. The feedback I've gotten is that I am the type of leader that isn't scared to roll up her sleeves and assist whenever it's necessary. I am supportive of the needs of my team and their customers and communicate with them at the frequency that's needed so that they feel the support without being crowded.
Rachelle's Feedback
I like that you already ask this question of your team. It shows a lot of awareness and a willingness to learn. Mentioning your ability to support without crowding is an excellent way to position your leadership style.
Anonymous Answer
Honest, reliable, happy, but serious about getting the job done. The type of person who believes in teamwork.
Rachelle's Feedback
These are good descriptive words, and it's nice that you elaborated to discuss more of your management philosophy.
Anonymous Answer
I had been a gas station manager in the past, and I believe they would say that I am a responsible leader because I always complete my tasks. They would also say that I am a good leader who likes to train employees for better performance, increasing productivity, which benefits the company.
Rachelle's Feedback
Very nice revision! This answer sets the stage nicely for the interviewer to understand your previous management responsibilities and leadership style.
"I have led 25 direct reports in the past, and I believe they would say that I am a responsible leader because I always complete my tasks. They would also say that I am a good leader who likes to train employees for better performance, increasing productivity, which benefits the company."
Anonymous Answer
I believe my employees would say I am a kind, collaborative, and result-oriented manager.
Marcie's Feedback
Great! Why would they say this about you? Can you elaborate on why they might think this about you? Add some more details to support your assertions and strengthen your answer.
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