How To Ace A Senior Role Interview

When trying to find your first job there are a lot of different resources out there that can help you but what happens when you now have a considerable amount of experience and are looking for a more senior position? Interviews change, become less theoretical and more centred around the experiences you have had.

Interviewers are now looking for a more polished candidate who has both the relevant skill set and an in-depth knowledge of their industry. Here are a few things to keep in mind when searching for a job once you have gained some experience.

Company Knowledge

Research needs to be more in depth going into the interview, not only covering the company’s products and services but also what projects are they involved in, what is going on with their competitors and what is the latest news on the company. Highlight what has been done in the past that you liked but never criticise the past employee’s decisions. If it is a new role you need to understand why they are creating the role and how you could make a difference if you got it. The more you understand about the company, the easier it will be for you to present yourself as the answer to the company’s prayers.

Competency Based Questions

This is your time to shine as your skills have developed over the past couple of years and your experiences are more business orientated now. Talk about your work experiences as opposed to outside experiences. If the question they ask is not something you can answer in a work context then of course talking about your hobby or voluntary experience is fine to talk about. Again, now that you have worked in a professional environment it is important to understand the significance of working towards a company’s objectives. Showing examples of how you have worked towards a company’s aims and objectives can show your value to a future employer.

The interviewer will also want to know about your softer skills such as leadership and interpersonal skills. Expect questions on how you’ve dealt with pressure, deadlines, difficult employees/colleagues/management etc. as the interviewer will be trying to ascertain whether you are a good fit for the job or not.

Showcase Your Experience

If you’re going for a more creative role, bringing your portfolio of experience along to an interview is a great way to showcase your ability. Building a website using free template sites like Weebly or Wix with links on your LinkedIn profile or hardcopy CV can show interviewers that you have the relevant skills and abilities before you meet them.

Questions You Ask

Now that you have the experience of working in a functioning professional environment the interviewer will want to know what makes you tick. Ask about perks, the environment and culture, ability to move up the ranks but keep in mind the position that you are interviewing for and the company that it is.

How You Portray Yourself in the Interview

At this stage in your career you should be comfortable in meetings with peers that you can think well on your feet and look and feel at ease. Interviewers are searching for people who have made the most out of their previous experience and want to learn more.

Interviews are meant to be stressful to an extent but also a space that client and candidate can get to know each other more. Don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer about their experience of the company and for more information.

Relax and take the interview in your stride, you have the experience to answer the questions asked.