 "Powerful well-thought-out questions will help you to differentiate yourself from the competition and present you with a chance to showcase skills, experience and suitability" |
Responses to questions will shed light on existing issues, background information and organisational objectives and goals. Present yourself as the best candidate for the role.
- Take the time to prepare a robust set of questions. It is vital that you learn as much as possible about a company's services, products, customers and competitors. Go beyond reading the company's website. Look for social media, and news feeds on company performance, projects, key players in the organisation, customers and the competition.
- Make sure that you do not ask questions that you can otherwise find answers for.
- It is essential that you prepare every possible response to your questions (yes, no and maybe) to support a continuous discussion flow and to present yourself in the best possible way.
- Asses the need to address issues or ask certain questions. Do not repeat questions.
FIVE IMPORTANT EXECUTIVE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
1. Why is this position vacant?
Reason for asking
Understand the circumstances that led to the vacancy. Is this a new opening in a developing company or replacement as the result of a resignation or firing of a previous employee?
How you benefit from asking
These scenarios all have significant consequences. Equip yourself with a deeper understanding of the environment, baggage associated with the position and expectations of the role.
2. What are the major issues that the company is currently facing?
Reason for asking
The interview panel may disclose challenges and frustrations that the organisation is facing.
How you benefit from asking
This question creates an opportunity to assess your interest in the environment and suitability for the role. Position yourself as the solution to issues raised and a memorable participant in the process.
Discuss ways in which you have successfully approached similar problems in the past. Prepare a list of achievements and examples of issues that you have solved, relevant to the scenario. Your research on the company will come in handy.
3. What qualities and background experiences are you looking for in the ideal candidate?
Reason for asking
Obtain a better understanding of essential skills, attributes and required background experiences, before you step into a new role.
How you benefit from asking
It is important to assess your capability to perform and meet expectations. Moving careers on a senior/executive level have long term implications. It is crucial that you consider your interests and ability to bring change to the organisation.
4. Comment on organisational long and short-term goals
Reason for asking
Long-term goals are fundamentally strategic and shape the overall direction of the company. Short-term goals are the steps required to achieve the longer-term objectives and indicate how well organisations carry out programs.
How you benefit from asking
Goals define the reasons why a job exists. People are employed to perform specific tasks. Goals clarify what they are employed to do.
Information on short and long-term goals will help you to evaluate the fit . Gain an understanding of desired outcomes and consider the likelihood of successful business and strategic execution.
5. Do you feel that my career experience and skills are a good fit for the role?
Reason for asking
The hiring panel may reveal reservations concerning your application.
How you benefit from asking
Assess how well the interview went. Address concerns, and rectify any uncertainties and miscommunications. Emphasise your interest in the role.
Do you need more information contact recruitment@thecorporatehub.co.za