All interviewers are looking for the next leader for their organization. They are not keen in investing their time recruiting and training someone who wants to come in and watch the clock all day. A team leader possesses a number of key attributes and they expect you to know what these are.
So what are the job interview questions about team leadership?
Job interview questions on communication skills
How do you communicate with your team? Communication is key to any job and in particular as a leader, you need to be able to set out the strategy and the execution of it. Your team members will need to be clear on what is expected from them. The more they know, the better they can perform. They must also have a channel to communicate with you. Also, you will need to be able communicate your team's progress to your senior management.
Job interview questions on planning skills
Every team needs a plan and as a leader you will be ultimately responsible for devising a plan with your team and executing it. A good plan is only possible if all the requirements are understood. You should always ensure that your plans are realistic and not too aggressive. Make sure that your team under your leadership preempts as many as the risks as possible up front. Have a few points ready for the interview on your approach.
How to answer interview questions on motivation skills
All good leaders need to be able to motivate their staff. It is important that you encourage the team in their daily tasks and their long term careers. The team should want to work for you. At the interview, the interviewer will be very keen to know how you execute on this and how successful you have been to date.