Are you a leader or a follower? This question is asked in any management interview. How you answer this question will determine whether or not you are suited for a management role.
In today’s blog post, we will discuss the differences between leaders and followers and give some examples of each. We will also provide sample answers to the question “are you a leader or a follower?” to better understand which category you fit into.
Table of Contents
Why did the interviewer ask, “are you a leader or a follower?”
The interviewer is looking to see what type of person you are. Are you the type of person who takes charge and leads others, or do you follow instructions and not take the initiative? Two kinds of people have advantages and disadvantages, and the interviewer wants to see which category you fit into.
How to answer the “are you a leader or a follower?” interview question.
You need to develop your answer based on the job position you are interviewing for. If you are interviewing for a leadership position, you will want to highlight your leadership qualities and give examples of when you have taken charge and led others.
If you are interviewing for a job that does not require leadership, you will want to focus on your ability to follow instructions and not take the initiative.
Know your characteristics
Characteristics of a leader
Leaders are described as “take charge” types of people. They are the ones who are not afraid to speak up and take charge of a situation. Leaders are also usually very confident and have strong communication skills. They can inspire others to achieve their goals.
Characteristics of a follower
Followers are typically more reserved than leaders. They are the ones who prefer to let others take charge. Followers are also usually very good at following instructions and sticking to a plan. They may not be as confident as leaders, but they are very reliable.
Explain with examples
When answering the question “are you a leader or a follower,” you should provide examples that illustrate your qualities.
For example, if you are a leader, you might say:
“I am a leader because I step up and take charge when no one else knows what to do. I am also very confident and have strong communication skills. I can inspire others to achieve their goals.”
If you are a follower, you might say:
“I am a follower because I am very good at following instructions and sticking to a plan. I may not be as confident as leaders, but I am very reliable.”
Both leaders and followers are important in any organization. It is up to you to decide which category you fit into.
Sample Answers to the question “are you a leader or a follower?”
Answer for a follower
“I’m more of a follower than a leader. I like working with others and knowing that there’s a clear plan to follow. I think my attention to detail and ability to stay focused are some of my strengths as a follower.
For example, when our team launched a new website for one of our clients, I ensured all the links were updated and working correctly. I also tested the website on different browsers to ensure it looked good and functioned properly for everyone.
I think being a follower has its advantages. I can focus on the task at hand and not get distracted by other things. Additionally, I’m usually very supportive of the leader’s vision and plan.”
Answer for a leader
“I see myself as a leader. I’m not afraid to take charge and make decisions. I’m also confident in my ability to communicate with others and inspire them to achieve their goals.
For example, when our team was working on a new website for one of our clients, I took charge and ensured everyone knew their tasks. I also communicated with the client directly to understand what they wanted the result to look like.
Once we had a clear vision, I motivated my team to work hard and stay focused to meet the deadline. Thanks to my leadership, we could launch the website on time, and the client was happy with the final product.”
Sample Answer 1
“I’m primarily a follower, but I can lead when necessary. I work best when I have clear instructions and someone to look up to. There have been times when I’ve had to step up and take charge. When my boss was out on maternity leave, I led the department for three months. And when we were short-staffed, I took on additional projects and responsibilities.
But, for the most part, I prefer to follow rather than lead. It’s just my natural tendency. That said, I would be open to leading if it was required in this role. From what I understand about the job, though, it will primarily entail following directions and completing assigned tasks. And that’s something I’m very comfortable with.”
Sample Answer 2
I’m a leader. I’m the type of person who likes to take charge and be in control. I’m always looking for new ways to motivate and inspire people. And, I love a challenge. When it comes to my career, I want to be in a position where I can have an impact and make things happen.
That’s why this job sounds so perfect for me. It seems like it will allow me to utilize my leadership skills. Thanks for asking! I’m excited to learn more about the job and see how I can contribute.
Sample Answer 3
I am a leader and follower. Depending on the task, situation, and people. I can take charge when needed and know how to listen and follow directions. I think the most important thing is to adapt and be flexible.
I depend on what is required of me at any given moment. Being a leader or follower isn’t about one quality or another. It’s about being able to read a situation and respond accordingly.
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In Conclusion
So, are you a leader or a follower? It’s up to you to decide. There are advantages and disadvantages to both roles. Ultimately, it comes down to what you’re comfortable with and what the situation calls for. Thanks for taking the time to read this! I hope it was helpful.