QUESTION: How can I best prepare to interview for an executive-level risk or security position?
A key part of success is how you market yourself. It is essential to have two things: the right job skills and the aptitude to promote yourself.
It is vital to practice interviews with folks who will be honest with you. Create a story focused on why you are the ideal candidate for this opportunity.
It is crucial to know the business culture and to know if you will be a good fit. Research the business in-depth (K-8 & K-10s are great) and the industry in general. Demonstrate that you are a lifelong learner who is interested in growing the business.
They want to get a sense of your style and approach - meaning you will really have to know yourself. Recognize the importance of chemistry in the interaction: be aware of non-verbal communication cues and use active listening. But be comfortable and be yourself, because they will know if you are just practicing the rote interview process you read about in a leadership book.
An often-overlooked tip: Understand how much time is planned for the interview and tailor your answers accordingly. If the CEO has scheduled 40 minutes and he asks you a question that has either a 3-minute or a 10-minute answer, think quickly and choose wisely.
Approach the interview like a business professional. You are a businessperson first - your business just happens to be risk and/or security.
Learn everything you can about the company: its history, senior executives, Board of Directors, main lines of business, its competition, footprint (international, domestic or both). Study the company's 10K for that year. It details the company's activities, as well as its risks.
Think strategically when approaching the interview. Come prepared to discuss how you have built strategic programs in your career. What is the value you can add to the company's bottom line?
Preparation and strategic, business-focused thinking will spell success.
Remember, you are dealing with busy executives who are inclined to see issues from 40,000 feet. Be concise, clear and to the point, and try to have an idea of what you want to present and to whom.
Remember their perspective - if it is the CFO you are interviewing with, tailor your answers to issues that would appeal to him or her. If it is the General Counsel, obviously the reference points would be different.
Your resume‚ may have gotten you in the door, but this interview is your opportunity to sell yourself, your expertise and experience.
Next Month's Question: What can companies do to improve protection of employees as economic pressures raise concerns about increased rates of workplace violence?
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