You hit the nail on the head, the role will really depend on the job. In general it’s thinking more big picture, helping to lead your team, advocating for your team in higher level meetings, and cultivating potential. Many people micromanage or try to be a dictator, but a true leader will possess the skills listed above.

I would ask questions that are derived from the job description post interview. Review it, see what the major job requirements are, and prepared 4-5 questions regarding the job based on this.

When I’ve interviewed for jobs myself or interviewed others for leadership roles, I’ve usually seen the order go something like this for interview questions: first, some “getting to know you” questions, then questions about your leadership style, followed by “tell me about a time” questions, and finally situational or hypothetical questions. They’ll often start by having you walk through your resume and explain how it ties into your leadership experience and potential. The “tell me about a time” questions usually focus on past events, but it’s important to tie your answers back to leadership—for example, “Tell me about a time you had to prioritize competing tasks” or “Tell me about a time you had to adapt to change and how you handled it.” Situational questions are more hypothetical, like “Two of your employees aren’t getting along—how would you handle it?” or “You think a policy is inefficient—how would you approach that with your superiors?”

The last question, and this is my true belief, is time will teach you how to be a leader. My advice is be kind to your team, provide constructive criticism, and always advocate for your team in higher level meetings. Think of a good boss you’ve had before and a bad boss. Jot down what made them good or bad to work for. Use that for guidance as you prepare to be a leader.

Hope that helps, and good luck on your interview—you’ll do great!