Initiative

Sample Behavioral Indicators

• Maintains a sense of purpose, value, and ownership of work.
• Seizes opportunities when they arise.
• Works independently with little direction.
• Maintains a level of energy and work activity to achieve goals.

Sample Behavioral-Based Interview Questions

• Describe a significant project idea you initiated in the last year. How did you know it was needed? Was it used? How did it work?
• Give me an example of a project where you came up with the idea and managed the process start to finish.
• Give me an example of a project or task that you had to accomplish without sufficient information, guidelines, or direction.
• Tell me about a project or idea – not necessary your own – that was implemented successfully primarily because of your efforts.
• Describe a situation where you responded proactively.

Recommended Resources

• Make Up Your Mind: A Decision Making Guide to Thinking Clearly and Choosing Wisely (Mooz). John Wiley & Sons, 2012.
• Mojo: How to Get It, How to Keep It, How to Get It Back If You Lose It (Goldsmith). Hachette, 2010.
• Solving the Procrastination Puzzle: A Concise Guide to Strategies for Change (Pychyl). Penquin, 2013.
• A Team of Leaders: Empowering Every Member to Take Ownership, Demonstrate Initiative, and Deliver Results (Gustavson and Liff). Amacom, 2014.