Ever walk out of an interview and think, “Darn, I should have said that?” You’re not alone. Many executives fall into the trap of thinking that their years of experience make them immune to the need for interview preparation. After all, you’ve likely interviewed dozens, if not hundreds, of candidates over the years. But being on the other side of the table is an entirely different experience. Even if you’re an expert on a topic, you wouldn’t dream of giving a presentation without preparation—interviews are no different.
Here are a few suggestions on how to avoid post-interview regret and walk into your next interview confident and ready.
Preparation is Key: No Matter Your Experience Level
- Don’t underestimate the importance of preparation: Many executives assume they can rely on their experience alone, but interviews require tailored responses that showcase your unique fit for a specific role.
- Think like a candidate, not an interviewer: Being interviewed is different from conducting an interview. Approach it with the same level of preparation you would do for a major presentation.
Make a List of Achievements – Your Professional Brag Sheet!
- Start with a comprehensive list: Write down all your major career achievements with outcomes clearly defined. Reflect on your most impactful projects, leadership moments, and measurable successes.
- Categorize using frameworks like the Five Pillars of Healthcare: This could include categories such as Finance, Operations, Quality, Growth, and People, which can help you organize your accomplishments in a meaningful way.
- Quantify your results: Be sure to include specific numbers, such as “Led a team that improved patient satisfaction by 30% in two years.” Metrics provide concrete evidence of your impact.
Use the STAR Method to Frame Your Stories
- STAR = Situation, Task, Action, Result: Structure your responses with this method to provide a clear and concise narrative.
- Prepare stories for different areas: Have examples ready that demonstrate your leadership style, decision-making, problem-solving, and ability to drive results.
- Be ready for follow-up questions: Interviewers may want more details, so be prepared to expand on your stories if needed.
Prepare for the Big Questions: Why Us? Why Now? Why Here? Why You?
- Why this company and why this role? Show that you’ve researched the company thoroughly and explain why their mission and goals resonate with you. Articulate your attraction to this particular role and how it aligns with your career aspirations.
- Why now? Discuss why this is the right moment for you to make a career move and how this opportunity aligns with your personal circumstances and professional goals.
- Why this location? Executive roles often require relocation. Be prepared to explain why you’re willing to move to this specific location, what your ties are, or attraction is to the area, and why you’d stay.
Why are you the best candidate? Highlight how your experience, leadership style, and unique skills align perfectly with the role. What is your value proposition for the organization?
Know Your Leadership Style
- Be ready to articulate your leadership philosophy: Whether it’s transformational leadership, servant leadership, or another style, know how to explain it with examples.
- Provide stories that illustrate your leadership: Share instances where your leadership style directly led to team success, project completion, or improved organizational outcomes.
Practice and Rehearse
- Rehearse your responses out loud: Don’t just think about your answers—practice them. This will help ensure you’re comfortable with your delivery and timing without sounding scripted.
- Consider a mock interview: Get feedback from a trusted colleague, mentor, or coach. They can help you refine your answers and highlight areas for improvement.
Research the Company and Role
- Understand the company’s current challenges and goals: This allows you to tailor your answers to show that you’re not just a strong leader, but the right leader for them.
- Anticipate potential questions about the company: Demonstrating your knowledge of the organization’s needs and opportunities can set you apart from other candidates.
Don’t let post-interview regret be part of your experience. By taking the time to prepare, categorize your achievements, and rehearse your responses, you can walk into your next interview confident, poised, and ready to land the role.