Dave's Interview Tips 

Most interviewing dos and don’ts should be obvious. Since our candidates are seasoned business leaders, here is a list of some advanced interviewing techniques/preparation items which can be very useful:

1. Prepare, prepare, prepare

The first interview will be the single deciding factor for both you and our client to invest further time in the selection process. Take the time to research and understand their business.

2. High Value Questioning

Based on your due diligence, prepare a list of high value questions to ask during the interview. High value questions demonstrate your preparation and interest in the firm. Questions around culture, best practices, ideal profile and keys to success always produce a substantive business discussion

3. What is your value proposition?

Any good interviewer will be attempting to answer this question. How can you impact this company? What is it that you do very well? Are you an impact player? Think about being able to describe your most advanced skills and how they could potentially translate to the company/firm.

4. Establish a connection

In addition to your resume and specific accomplishments, establishing a comfortable connection with the interviewer is vital. After all, these people will be working with you daily and want to feel comfortable that you fit the style and culture of their firm. Let them know who you are and visa versa. Many clients will admit that cultural fit is perhaps the most important element to identify in the selection process.

5. Be substantive

Often overlooked in the interview process is providing specific details about your experience and accomplishments. Tell stories. Answer the question “what did I do” as opposed to “what would I do”. Be sure the stories are meaningful and concise. Be sure the stories are answering a specific question asked in the interview.

6. Executive presence

The majority of our positions are at a senior level and require daily interaction with executives both internally and externally. Your attire, body language and pitch should comfortably match your environment. Interview attire should always consist of conservative business dress. Body language when talking or listening provides a window into your confidence/comfort level. Making eye contact is very important in establishing a connection. Help the interviewer answer this question: “Can I see this person interacting comfortably with a senior executive client”?

7. Listen

The best interviews oftentimes feel more like a comfortable conversation. Be sure to put on your listening hat and demonstrate that you are interested. If you find yourself controlling the conversation, step back and ask questions. If you find yourself doing all the listening, find a way to interject comfortably and engage.

8. Message

Think about the two or three ‘take aways’ you want to leave behind with the interviewer. For example, “Susan had great presence, asked terrific questions and she clearly has success building client relationships”. These are the types of ‘sound bytes’ the interviewer will likely remember as they consider you for further steps in the selection process.

9. Sponsorship

Remember that most interviewers are hoping the interview goes well. True. After all, why would they take the time to schedule the meeting if they didn’t anticipate a potential fit? In sales terms, you have an interested buyer who has accepted a meeting. This is a pretty positive thought. Your job is to earn their support or sponsorship of your candidacy at the end of the interview. When wrapping up the discussion, ask for it. It’s that simple. “Based upon our discussion today, do you feel I would be a fit and are you comfortable sponsoring me to meet others in the organization?” Minimally, you will have a better sense for your standing in the process and identify potential objections or improvement areas.

10. Follow up

The most often overlooked item is performing strong follow up after the interview. In addition to a debrief with your search consultant, be sure to secure the business card of the interviewer and within 24 hours craft a meaningful email ‘thank you’ note which briefly recaps the meeting, your interest and request for next steps. Perform this throughout the process with some well timed phone follow up. Most companies appreciate doing ‘the little things’. The little things can make a significant difference in your candidacy.