So, you have an interview with the CEO – congratulations! By this point, you have most likely spoken to (and impressed) some of the key stakeholders and now all that’s left to do is sell yourself to the company leader. Whilst an interview with the CEO sounds fairly intimidating, we have guidance and advice that should settle your nerves and ensure you make an impact across. So, if you are a candidate looking to ace your interview with the CEO and land your next role in marketing, you should follow our 4 tips below.
- The importance of company research
Company research is the starting point for any interview preparation and it shows not only your commitment to the process but also your eagerness to learn more about the company – two factors that will impress. Every piece of research is an additional talking point for the interview so try and learn as much as possible about their goals, vision, company culture, and current work. Highlight your interest in their company by research via their website, social accounts, and news reports – it’s always a good thing to drop in information on key stats, shares, and growth that show you really know your stuff.
- Practice small talk
The interview with the CEO will be an opportunity for them to not only conclude whether you are a good fit experience-wise but also personality-wise. Throughout your interview, the CEO will want to see how well you can uphold conversation and whether you are a good personality fit. Prior to your interview, try and think of a few non-work-related discussion points that can demonstrate your ability to engage and communicate. If appropriate, get some small talk going at the start to warm things up and to make you a memorable, standout candidate. Remember that by letting your personality (and experience) shine through, you will be far more likely to land the role.
- Prepare for questions they might ask
The CEO will use this interview as a chance to learn more about your skills, experience, and success in previous roles so go prepared and confidently communicate your suitability for the role. Before entering the interview, make sure you have the job spec memorised and examples of relevant experience that you can offer in response to their questions. Have a think about why you want this role, what you could bring to the company, your motivations and achievements and your future goals. Being well-prepared will leave you more confident, and able to communicate your passion and suitability.
- Have a list of questions for the CEO
Recruiting across marketing, communications and digital roles, we work with multi-sector organisations and CEOs for a variety of companies. Having a list of carefully prepared questions gives you a chance to show your knowledge and we would recommend that you have quite a few prepared as it is likely that some will be answered throughout the course of your conversation. Take this interview with the CEO as an opportunity to learn more about the company, their goals, company culture, challenges, and how they work as a team. Also, have a think about what you can learn about the CEO and their leadership style, what excites them about the industry they are in and the direction that the company is going in. Overall, this will be an opportunity to learn more, showcase your research, and to see how well you can gel with the CEO.
The interview process will not always be smooth sailing, but by following these 4 tips, you are on the right road to acing your interview with the CEO and landing your next role. If you want to be prepared, Spotlight offer additional guidance and interview tips! If you are a candidate considering a role in marketing, digital, or communications, do get in touch to find out more about the roles we have advertised and how Spotlight Recruitment can help.
NICOLA MONGON is the MD of marcoms recruitment agency Spotlight Recruitment, specialists in marketing, digital, and communications recruitment since 2008. Read our 5* Google reviews from candidates and clients to find out more. If you would like to discuss hiring plans or find out more about us, you can reach Spotlight at 020 3008 4254 or info@spotlightrecruitment.com
