Answering the question “Why Do You Want to Be a Manager?”
If you’re interviewing for a management role, you’ll almost certainly face the question: “Why do you want to be a manager?” Recruiters may also phrase it as:
- What kind of manager are you?
- How would your team describe your management style?
- What are your key strengths as a manager?
Your answer needs to prove you can lead with confidence, organisation, and empathy while aligning with the company’s culture and goals.
Why Recruiters Ask
Management hires are critical to a company’s success. Recruiters want to see that your interest goes beyond salary — that you have leadership skills, share their values, and can inspire teams.
Skills They Look For
Strong managers typically demonstrate:
- Motivating and inspiring others
- Building trust and fostering potential
- Strategic thinking and goal-setting
- Delegating effectively
- Team building and positivity
- Authenticity and resilience
Building Your Answer
- Research the company
Understand its products, culture, and management style. - Identify overlaps
Show how your leadership style and experience match their values and goals. - Be specific
Use examples (ideally with the STAR method) to prove you’ve successfully led teams and delivered results. - Match their management style
Explain how your approach complements theirs and share your growth goals as a leader. - Reinforce soft skills
Show you can support your team through challenges as well as drive performance.
Example Approach
“I want to be a manager because I’m passionate about developing people and creating a team environment where individuals thrive. In my last role, I led a project team through a challenging deadline, keeping morale high while delivering early. I value your company’s collaborative culture and see my leadership style as a strong fit, helping drive both team satisfaction and results.”
Key Takeaways
- Management requires a mix of hard and soft skills.
- Tailor your answer to the company’s culture and objectives.
- Give specific examples of leadership success.
- Demonstrate empathy, authenticity, and a commitment to team growth.