Interviewer: Are you a leader or a follower?
Mark: I think I am more of a follower, but I can lead if I need to.
Interviewer: Can you explain a little more, please?
Mark: Sure. Well, if I am working with people who have more experience or who are natural leaders, then I feel very comfortable following them. I still speak my mind and share my opinion, but I’ll let them take charge.
Interviewer: I see.
Mark: But on the other hand, if there is a situation in which nobody is leading but a leader is required, then I will fill that role.
Interviewer: Why do you think that is the best way?
Mark: I think that the most qualified person should be the leader. If I am the most qualified person, then I will be the leader, but I won’t force my way into being the leader if I am not the best person for the job.
Interviewer: I think that is very reasonable.
Patterns and Examples
I would say that I am ____________________ because ____________________.
- I would say that I am a leader because I have confidence in my ability to lead, make decisions, and communicate effectively.
- I would say that I am a follower because I work better when I do not have to organize and motivate other people.
I think that I am a ____________________. I ____________________.
- I think that I am a follower. I can lead if I need to, but I prefer to be the number two or number three person on a team.
- I think that I am a leader. I am able to motivate other people and keep everybody happy and working hard.
I am a/an ____________________. At my previous job, ____________________.
- I am a leader. At my previous job, I was the leader of a marketing team, and our team consistently performed well and reached our goals.
- I am a follower. At my previous job, I did my best work when I was the deputy director of sales.