The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership

Self-awareness is a critical trait to evaluate when hiring outside executives, as it influences their effectiveness as leaders. Candidates who can reflect on their experiences and recognize their blind spots demonstrate a higher level of self-awareness, showcasing their ability to learn and grow. For example, when discussing a past project that went wrong, the ability to take responsibility and articulate lessons learned indicates both accountability and resilience. Employers should aim to identify these qualities during interviews by asking scenario-based questions that reveal how candidates view their roles and their team's dynamics.