10 Ways to Ace Your Executive Level Interview

You’ve got the skills, you’ve got the experience, but can you get the job? Don’t let years of experience hinder the fact that you should still prepare for interviews! Check out ten ways to ace your next executive level interview with the tips below.

1. DO: Research Hard: Everyone knows that research is important before a job interview, but not everyone dives deep into a company’s past. Showing passion for the position will not only put you in the right state of mind for the interview, but also show the team that you’re already dedicated to the mission. The more you learn, the more comfortable you will be with the team, and the more impressed recruiters will be when you have this knowledge.
2. DON’T: Get Defensive: As an executive-level candidate, this interview is going to test you. Just like you’ve researched the company, they’ve researched you, too. Here’s the thing, though: everyone has flaws – you just need to represent yours well. Stay positive, take responsibility for your past, and use this time to show off how well you’ve recovered from any past situations that may be brought up.
3. DO: Ask Questions: Interviews aren’t just a one-way street. At this point in your career you have the experience, so don’t just leave your future challenges up to chance. Asking questions won’t only allow you to learn about your potential future with the company, but also give the recruiters a chance to give an inside scoop.
4. DON’T: Dwell on Past Break-Ups: Maybe your job was boring or you couldn’t stand your boss, but that’s not what a company wants to hear about why you chose to leave a role. Make sure to highlight the positives and explain why you’re choosing to pursue a new position. Is it a step further in your career? Is it more challenging? Be more excited for the future than frustrated with the past.
5. DO: Know your Greatest Weakness: The question everyone loves to hate: “What’s your greatest weakness?” By greatest, they truly mean greatest. In this situation, the company is looking for self-awareness – are you aware that you have room to improve? If so, tell them about it! 
6. DON’T: Be Afraid to Ask About the Team: Leadership isn’t always easy. Ask about the current challenges within the company and use this as an opportunity to describe how you would attempt to solve those problems if hired. Learning more about the history of the role will help you determine if this is the best next step for your career. 
7. DO: Offer your Skills: When going into detail about your experience, make sure to emphasize how your experience could align with what the company is looking for. Focus on how you can help them, not just what they can offer you. Don’t forget – you’re interviewing them, too!
8. DON’T: Recite your Experience: When asked to tell an interviewer about yourself, don’t recite your memorized resume, yet at the same time, you don’t need to tell all. Focus on important accomplishments and (since you’ve done your research) what interests those at the company.
9. DO: Keep it Real: You’ve made it this far – now is your time to shine! The recruiters already know the team you’d be leading, so make sure to keep it real so that they can see if your personality would be a good fit!
10. DON’T: Forget a Good Closing: When all is said and done, don’t forget to reiterate your interest in the position and thank the team for their time. It is also important to send a thank you email within the next business day. Take notes during your meeting and mention some of the positive takeaways in your letter. Don’t let a weak closing cut your interview process short.