Understanding how you like to be managed can significantly impact your job satisfaction and success. During interviews, when you’re asked about your preferred management style, the interviewer is trying to determine if there will be a good fit between you and your potential boss.
Let’s dive into why this question is important and how you can craft a response that showcases your compatibility with the company’s culture.
Why do interviewers ask how you like to be managed?
It might seem strange for an interviewer to ask how you like to be managed, but it’s actually a good sign. This question is a positive indicator that a company cares about the fit between managers and their team members. It shows they’re proactive about building effective working relationships and are committed to the development and success of their employees.
What interviewers are looking for
When interviewers ask about your ideal management style, they’re looking for a match between your preferences and the company’s management style. They are also checking for your flexibility and openness to feedback. If you express that you struggle with aspects of management that are fundamental to their environment, it might signal potential issues.
Hiring managers want to see that you don’t have unreasonable expectations. For example, if you say you have difficulty receiving negative feedback, it could be a red flag that it will be challenging to help you grow.
How to answer “How do you like to be managed?”
Reflect on your experiences
Your boss will greatly influence how happy you are in a new job. So, think about what has worked for you in the past. Do you flourish under close guidance, or do you prefer a manager who trusts you to work independently? Consider the best relationships you’ve had with previous managers and what made those relationships successful.
Research the company
Before your interview, do some digging to understand the company’s culture, especially regarding management. Websites like Glassdoor can provide insights from current and former employees. Align your preferences with the company’s style without sacrificing your genuine needs.
Focus on positives
Instead of listing the management styles you dislike, spend the bulk of your answer talking about what has positively impacted your performance in the past. This approach shows that you’re constructive and focused on finding the best fit.
Provide examples
One of the best ways to answer is with specific examples to illustrate your ideal management relationship. Describe a positive situation where effective management helped you achieve success or grow professionally.
How not to answer
- Avoid being too specific: While it’s good to know what you want, being too prescriptive can make you seem inflexible.
- Don’t focus on negatives: Highlighting what you don’t like can come off as complaining rather than being constructive.
Sample answers to “How do you like to be managed?”
Example #1
“I thrive on constructive feedback and clear expectations. At my last internship, my supervisor would set clear weekly goals and check in frequently to discuss progress and areas for improvement. This structure really helped me develop my skills and meet my objectives effectively. I appreciate a manager who communicates openly and encourages a culture of continuous improvement.”
Example #2
“I’m passionate about leadership development, so I value a manager who is interested in mentoring their team. In a previous role, my manager took an active role in my professional development, which included regular one-on-one meetings to discuss career goals and strategies to achieve them. This guidance was invaluable for my growth. I work best under managers who are direct and committed to developing their team’s potential.”
By clearly articulating how you like to be managed, focusing on your preferences that align with the company’s culture, and providing concrete examples, you’ll help the interviewer see why you’d be a great addition to their team and how you’ll thrive under their management style.