Thread by @Great_blogging

Popular Interview: Are you a leader or follower?

When an interviewer asks are you a leader or a follower, it might be tempting just to respond that you are a leader, since taking on responsibilities sounds like what a potential employer would want.

However, a hiring manager is trying to see if you are versatile and willing to assume different roles based on what the company needs. It is important to talk about past experiences that show you display characteristics of both a leader and a follower.

Remember, every organization values some leadership qualities but wants someone who will follow directives as well. Try to maintain a balance between the two.

Here are the do’s and don’ts to consider when answering the interview question “Are you a leader or a follower?”

1. Talk about times where you took charge and assumed responsibilities.

2. Discuss times when you followed instructions successfully.

3. Demonstrate that you understand the appropriate contexts in which one would be a leader vs. a follower.

4. Emphasize skills that would benefit both a leader and a follower.

5. Mention past experiences where you were both a leader and a follower.

6.Focus on how being both a leader and a follower has a positive impact on the business.

7. Answer this question in a way that let the interviewer know that you possess the capabilities to assume both roles, and that you can change based on the needs of the position.

DON'TS

Don't say you are solely a leader and only talk about your leadership traits.

2. Don't say you are solely a follower and only talk about times where you took orders and performed tasks.

3. Don't come across as indecisive–you must provide answer that proves you possess the fluidity to be both a leader and a follower.

Human beings are storytellers, so tell a story that illustrates how you can be both a leader and a follower. Use the STAR method to frame your answer, focusing on Situation, Task, Action, and Results.

An organization needs both leaders and followers, and one is not more important than the other. In fact, being a good follower makes you a stronger leader.

A good way to answer the question “Are you a leader or a follower?” is with a response like this:

"In past jobs,I hav been able to adapt to whatever was expected of me.When a group needed a leader,I was more than capable of handling that role,but at the same time,I recognize when it is better to take a step back&take direction frm someone who is more knowledgeable than I am

Apologies for some abbreviations in the sample answer. That had to be done so we can fit the tweet Into the 240 characters.

We hope that the answer will help guide you in framing your own answer to the question. Please don't come off as being arrogant in answering the question

You can read the whole thread here: greatblogin.blogspot.com/2018/08/popula…

Remember more interview guides are on our blog at greatblogin.blogspot.com.

Thank you and God bless.