How to Answer: How do you go about earning the trust and support of a team you are being introduced to?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Entry-Level Manager job interview.
3. How do you go about earning the trust and support of a team you are being introduced to?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know how you go about earning the confidence and respect of your teams. How you answer should inform them of your leadership style and approach to building relationships with your employees. Break down your approach to earning the respect of the people who will be working for you. Display an alignment with the leadership style they aim to promote in their work culture. Showcase your understanding of the value of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of your crew early on. Your success relies on having a firm grasp and a clear understanding of what they have to offer.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 27th, 2024
Answer Example
"I always like to mirror the words of thought leader Amy Cuddy in my actions when it comes to entering a team. She said the most important thing to do is to lead with trust and to assume that the people in your team are there for the right reasons. They want to create value, and they are there with good intentions because if you give them that trust, you get that back. So, I approach entering a team through humility, asking about themselves, their work, what their strengths are, their observations of what they like about working there and as part of that team, and what they feel could be improved upon. I basically lean on them for advice, tips, and move forward with transparency and integrity, helping out with sincerity wherever I can. I prove myself, show them that I have their best interests at heart, sing their praises, and make sure their merits are recognized. The rest is up to them."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 27th, 2024