Business Executive Bobby Chacko Discusses How to Prepare for an Interview with a CEO — Bobby Chacko
Business executive Bobby Chacko discusses the best ways to prepare for an interview with a CEO.
The interview process can be intimidating. This is especially true when it comes time to be interviewed by the CEO. The Chief Executive Officer is a member of the company’s executive team and is typically in charge of leading the company. Business executive Bobby Chacko has been interviewed by numerous CEOs, and he has served the role of CEO as well. He recently offered his top tips to prepare for an interview at this level.
“It’s essential to nail your interview with the CEO, because depending on the size of the company, you may find yourself working with him or her often,” Bobby Chacko said. “The CEO likely will rely on their executive team to vet job competence, but the CEO can influence if someone should not be hired based on their experience with the candidate, so impressions matter”.
Bobby Chacko explained that an interview with the CEO likely means you’ve passed all other stages of the interview process. The CEO wants to hear about your experience and determine how well you will fit in the company dynamic. Bobby Chacko explained that many times, a CEO will want to know what you are passionate about, how you challenge yourself, and what about the company’s mission makes you want to be a part of the team.
“The questions asked by CEOs seem simple, but they’re often looking for a defined and passionate answer,” Bobby Chacko said. “They want to know if you connect with the mission and values of the company and how they can help you succeed in your career.”
Bobby Chacko explained it’s essential to know as much as possible about the company and its mission before entering this interview. The CEO may ask you what part of the mission statement or strategy sticks out most to you. They’re trying to determine if you share similar company values or demonstrated critical thinking. Bobby Chacko explained that all of this information can be found on the company website or prior interviews and should be studied before entering any meeting with a CEO.
“A CEO will likely ask if you have any questions for them,” Bobby Chacko said. “You don’t want to say ‘no.’”
Bobby Chacko suggested asking questions about the company to show you’re eager to learn more and become a part of it. Also, asking questions directly about the CEO can be beneficial. You may want to ask what the CEO’s leadership style is and how your role will benefit the company. You may ask about the company or workplace culture. Bobby Chacko added that CEO meetings often involve a bit of small talk, so its important to appear comfortable, confident and authentic when speaking about yourself or asking questions. Always be prepared to answer this question “what are you good at, and what are you bad at? What is in your development plan.”
“Preparing for an interview with a CEO means preparing to engage with confidence with sprinkles of humility and zero arrogance,” Bobby Chacko said. “The more you know about the CEO, the company mission, and your expected role, the more prepared you’ll feel.”
Originally published at https://www.bobbychacko.com on September 28, 2020.
