In the shortlist interview, what should the team leader demonstrate?

• A. Read slides or the RFP word-for-word.
• B. Lead with warmth and show leadership.
• C. Avoid eye contact with the committee.
• D. Let every team member speak for equal time.

Answer: (B)

Leading with warmth and showing leadership signals that the team can guide a project with confidence and a collaborative spirit. In a shortlist interview, the team leader sets the tone, engaging the committee and the rest of the team in a way that demonstrates approachability, trust, and the ability to steer discussions toward productive outcomes. This presence is what the committee looks for as evidence of how the team would function under leadership—how they communicate, motivate, and coordinate to deliver results.

Reading slides or the RFP word-for-word comes across as disengaged and defensive, suggesting a lack of ownership or critical thinking about the project. Avoiding eye contact undermines credibility and connection, making it harder for the committee to trust and relate to the leader. Letting every team member speak for equal time, while it can be important to hear from others, does not inherently show leadership capability; without clear direction and facilitation, the conversation can drift or stall. The best approach is to lead with warmth, invite input, guide the discussion, and demonstrate the ability to keep the team focused and moving forward.