Senior leader interview preparation checklist

As a senior leader, you will be all too familiar with the importance of being prepared thoroughly for an interview. However, the higher expectations will require you to display a higher level of competence and experience. Therefore, before your next interview, be sure to conduct the essential research that you will need to help you run through the key planning points.

To help you prepare, we have compiled a useful checklist that identifies those key areas of research that form part of our top interview tips.

Research

The research you do before an interview will form the foundation of your meeting. It will increase your market knowledge and put you in good stead, so be sure to cover all these key areas.

Company news and annual reports

Acquire a copy of the company's current and past annual reports, and familiarise yourself with the results. Use a search engine to gather news on the company to find out current and past news stories. There may be something that you can reference in your interview.

Market position

Determine their current proposition by visiting sites, browsing their online marketing material, and carrying out a SWOT analysis. Assess what the company's major challenges are and what their true ‘value add’ is over their competition.

Be prepared to discuss the company's competitive environment and where possible, get copies of their competitors’ materials as well to compare.

Products and services

Read about and if you are able to, experience as many of the company's products and/or services as possible. Going that extra mile will be beneficial.

Company culture and people

If the executive role that you are interviewing for is not confidential, then contact anyone that may have an insider's view of the company to learn more about the company's personality and culture. Research the social profile of the individual or individuals you are meeting via LinkedIn, Google, Twitter etc. you may find a common ground or a relevant shared experience.

Plan for your interview

Now, using all the information you have gathered, take the time to plan the finer details, as well as responses to important questions.

Prepare examples

Show how your background has prepared you for the role and use real examples to highlight your strengths. Tie these anecdotal stories to what is on your CV and how they apply to the job responsibility.

Be confident

At senior level, you will be expected to discuss your management and personal style, so anticipate the questions you are likely to be asked. List why you are right for the role with supportive examples. Re-read the job description/candidate pack and have questions prepared, to ask the interviewer.

Rest

Get a good night’s sleep, you want to be fresh and alert at your interview for your key discussion points.

Nicola Wensley, Partner
Fashion- Executive Appointments
Page Executive
M: +447584386126
E: nicolawensley@pageexecutive.com