Tips for Leadership Level Interviews

If you are reading this, you're likely in a mid-level career and are now applying for leadership roles. Congratulations! 👏

This transition is a significant step in your career, and it's crucial to understand how leadership interviews differ from those at earlier stages. 

 

As a hiring manager who has interviewed hundreds of candidates, I've seen some key differences between interviews for entry- to mid-level roles and those for leadership positions. Many capable candidates fail in their interviews because they overlook some of these points. 

 

1. Industry and Company Insight 

When selecting new roles, prioritize understanding the industry and the company's position within it. Assess if the industry is on an upward or downward trend and whether the company is a leader or a follower. These insights can be more crucial than the specific role you're considering. 

2. Comprehensive Company Research 

Leadership-level interviews require demonstrating that you're prepared to lead the company and the team towards success. This means having an in-depth understanding of the industry, the company's vision, mission, departmental synergies, partnerships, and business model. Tailor your responses to reflect this comprehensive knowledge. 

3. Emphasizing Impact 

In leadership roles, emphasize the impact of your actions on the organization or its customers, rather than the size of teams or budgets you've managed. Leadership is more about impact and influence than scale. 

4. Future-Oriented Thinking 

When answering questions, always keep the company's future in mind. They are looking for a leader who can guide them to a successful future, not someone who just had amazing accomplishments in the past. 

5. Visionary Approach 

Leadership interviews focus on your vision. Start with a broad perspective, discussing how you identify and evaluate problems, develop strategies, and implement solutions. Highlight their impact, and try not to get lost in the details. 

6. Engaging Dialogue 

Leadership interviews are dialogues rather than interrogations. Use strategic questions to show your understanding of big-picture issues and to engage the interviewer in a meaningful conversation. One tip to drive conversation is asking insightful questions and preparing follow-up questions based on potential answers to continue conversation.   

7. Leadership Presence 

They are looking for a leader, so act like one. Demonstrate leadership qualities by actively listening and understanding the question behind the questions. Present yourself professionally, embodying the qualities of a leader. 

It's okay to show vulnerability and that you are human too, but do not show any hint of insecurity. You should display confidence that you can do the job. 

8. Positive Framing 

When discussing past challenges, focus on the facts and frame them positively, emphasizing the lessons learned and benefits gained. This demonstrates how constructively you will handle difficulties as a leader. 

 

I hope you find these insights helpful as you prepare for your leadership interviews. If you have any questions, wish to delve deeper into any of these areas, or want to discuss your interview strategies, concerns, or need a boost in confidence, I highly recommend trying our AI coach. Engaging in a conversation with the AI coach can significantly strengthen your interview strategy and address any self-doubt you might experience. It's a valuable tool to help you present yourself as the true leader you are, fully prepared and confident.

Download Betterself.ai app, on the AppStore or PlayStore. Try "Excelling in Leadership Interviews" module.

Good luck!