INTRODUCTION:
A job seeker asked, “What can I expect during my interview with the Vice President following two prior interviews with HR and department management?”
ASSESSMENTS:
Truth be told, only the top candidates get to meet the Executive. Those who do, are typically among the top two or three candidates. The Executive plays tie-breaker in the selection process. So, how does he/she decide who is the best candidate for the job?
Well, they typically assess the finalists in three areas. They are 1) Cultural fit; 2) Critical thinking skills; and, 3) Job-related areas that they need to improve in.
Let’s look at them in more detail.
Cultural Fit – Every organization has a unique workplace culture. Management wants to bring new team members on board whose personal values support that culture. That’s because they will engage existing a future employees to support the company’s mission, vision, and values. So, when you meet with an executive, don’t underestimate the value of your answers to their questions about your interests and hobbies, and community service. They can determine a lot from your conversation about what you how you spend your non-work hours and what you value. These characteristics might include conflict resolution, leadership, confidence, etc.
Critical Thinking – Senior staff positions, supervisory, management positions, and positions of trust must often make important decisions. They are often not easy decisions to make. So, an executive may also ask what you think about the way that the organization has handled certain types of business situations. Your answer will let him/her know if you understand the challenge that they faced. He/She also wants to know that you consider how your decisions impact others within the organization and the public’s perception of it.
Job-Related Areas Needing Improvement – No one brings 100% of the required qualifications to a new job. The executive wants a new team member with the shortest learning curve. So, the winning candidate must prove that they take initiative to improve in the areas where they don’t quite measure up. If you want to be that person, you must take responsibility for your own development.
IN CONCLUSION:
Know that the executive is on a mission when you meet with them. So, start doing the work now. Then, you will be well-poised to prove that you can make quick, impactful contributions to your new employer’s continued success.
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My goal is to help you live your best career life. So, Career Success to You! Go Get Your New Job!
