Are you a leader or a follower?
In a Hurry? Quick Answer
Don't choose one exclusively. The best answer shows you can do both: "I can lead when needed, but I'm also a strong team player." Provide examples of leading and of contributing as a team member. Emphasize situational adaptability.
The Recruiter's Mind
This is a false binary. They want someone flexible enough to do both. If you say only "leader," you might seem difficult to manage or unwilling to collaborate. If you say only "follower," you lack initiative. They're testing self-awareness, teamwork, and whether you understand that effective professionals adapt their role to the situation. The right answer shows maturity and versatility.
Example Answers
Situational Flexibility
"I'm comfortable in both roles depending on what the situation needs. When a project aligns with my expertise or requires coordination, I naturally step into a leadership role. For instance, I recently led a cross-functional initiative to streamline our customer onboarding process. However, when working with our data team on analytics projects, I contribute as a team member because they have deeper expertise. The key is knowing when to lead and when to support, and I'm confident doing both."
Collaborative Leader
"I see myself as a collaborative leader. I'm comfortable taking ownership and guiding teams toward goals, but I don't believe in hierarchy for its own sake. The best leadership involves listening to team members, incorporating their ideas, and empowering them to excel. I've led several successful projects, but in those, my role was as much about facilitating great work from others as it was directing. I also recognize when someone else should lead and I'm happy to support their vision."
Context-Driven Approach
"I adapt based on context. In situations where there's ambiguity or no clear direction, I'm comfortable stepping up to create structure and lead. But when there's already strong leadership in place, I'm an enthusiastic contributor who executes excellently. For example, on my current team, I lead our sprint planning and mentor junior developers, but I also take direction from our architect on technical decisions. I think the strongest team members are those who can wear different hats as needed."
Red Flags to Avoid
- Definitively saying "I'm a leader" (can seem arrogant or inflexible)
- Only saying "I'm a follower" (suggests lack of initiative)
- Disparaging followers: "I'm definitely a leader—I can't stand just taking orders"
- Being wishy-washy: "I don't know, either one I guess"
- Failing to provide concrete examples of both leading and collaborating
- Suggesting you always need to be in charge to be effective
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
- Reject the false choice: Clearly state you can do both, depending on what's needed.
- Provide balanced examples: Share one story of leading and one of contributing.
- Show judgment: Explain how you assess when to lead versus when to follow.
- Emphasize team success: Focus on outcomes, not ego or titles.
- Match to the role: If applying for a management position, lean slightly toward leadership examples.
- Demonstrate humility: Acknowledge that great teams need people who can flex.