Leading in a Diverse Workforce

Employment Trends 25 companies that are hiring new graduates this year were asked what they look for in a candidate. The following qualities were cited numerous times: Strong educational backgroundStrong problem-solving and analytical skills Proven track record of successStrong work ethic Demonstrated leadership Competitive attitude Goal-oriented and results-driven Internship experience in related fields Must thrive in a team environmentExcellent communication skills Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment Source:

Leadership Related Interview Questions Tell me about a recent team experience you had that was fulfilling. Give an example of when you had to show good leadership. Describe your leadership style and give an example. Give me an example of when you went above and beyond the call of duty? What are the most important characteristics of a leader? Tell me about a situation where you were a team leader and you had to make a tough decision.

Past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior. Provide specific and detailed life experiences to demonstrate your leadership ability. Provide answers in STAR format: –Explain the Situation –The Task or problem –The Action(s) you took –The Results of your actions Behavioral Interviewing

Developing Leadership Skills for the Workplace Integrity Some of the actual situations you can practice this behavior is taking responsibility for your own actions. Leaders take personal responsibility for their team’s actions and results. Passionate Leaders are enthusiastic about their work and have the ability to rub this energy off on their followers. Do you take on assignments given to you enthusiastically?

Developing Leadership Skills for the Workplace Commitment Can you truly say you are willing to work hard at the job assigned? Leaders also have a strong discipline in following through with their work. Courageous Leaders are brave when they confront risks and the unknown. When looking at developing leadership skills, do you have the courage to speak up on things that matter?

Developing Leadership Skills for the Workplace Goal Oriented Leaders are very focused on objectives and develop a plan and strategy to achieve the objectives. Leaders also build commitment from the team and rally them to achieve the goal. Developing People Training, coaching or teaching, are some of the main traits of good leaders. Leaders develop people to build a stronger team so that the organization is effective.

Developing Leadership Skills for the Workplace Prioritize Leaders do the most urgent and important things first regardless of their interest in them and with the best possible effort. Start developing leadership skills in this area by recognizing what important tasks there are to complete. No Public Glory Leaders share glory and credit with the team for the work. They know they are only as good as their team. When developing leadership skills, ask yourself this – are you generous enough to share the fruits of your teams achievements?

Ways to Continually Develop Leadership Skills Become active in campus organizations Identify & participate in leadership courses/trainings Connect with the TCU Leadership Center and Center For Community Involvement and Service Learning Join a professional organization Do an internship to increase your abilities Document your leadership experience onto your resume. Develop a professional portfolio (“first impressions binder”) –Training Certificates -Honors/Awards –Relevant Projects-Articles or Papers –Current Resume-Recommendation Letters Employers Perspective