What interesting questions can we ask during an Executive Search interview?

When interviewing executive candidate, you want to learn about them beyond their CV and lead them into a discussion which shows their personality, skills, leadership style, experience and cultural fit. 

Here are 10 questions you can consider adding to your process and what you will learn.

1. Have you thought about leaving your present position before? If yes, why did you then stay?
What you’ll learn: How motivated your candidate is to move

2. What makes you effective?
What you’ll learn: Work style and whether that fits with your company culture

3. Describe the biggest change you’ve ever dealt with and how did you adapt?
What you’ll learn: Whether they have the experience to take on a stressful role

4. Think back to the best manager you have worked with and tell us what you liked for about their management style?
What you’ll learn: The leadership skills your candidate strives for

5. What three things about your last role gave you the most satisfaction?
What you’ll learn: Attributes that the candidate will bring with them to this role

6. How do you keep your team focused?
What you’ll learn: Motivational skills and leadership style

7. Describe the toughest decision you ever had to make at work and why it was difficult?
What you’ll learn: If they have the experience necessary to face the challenges of this role and what weaknesses they have that might affect the role

8. What support do you feel would be necessary for both you and the company to be successful?
What you’ll learn: Whether expectations and requirements match resources available to the company

9. Tell me an interesting thing about yourself that isn’t on your CV?
What you’ll learn: Personal values and other interests

10. Describe yourself in 3 words.
What you’ll learn: The candidate’s strengths and perception of self

If you would like our assistance with your Search process please do get in touch with Richmond Capital to discuss further.

📩 If you have a question please email questions@richmond-capital.co.uk

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