Interviewing for a management-level position comes with a different set of expectations than interviewing for an entry level or junior role. Bearing this in mind, here’s how to excel in your management-level interview:

Go beyond the basics 

When you’re researching the organization, do more than skim the company website for the motto and values. If possible, gather financial information about the organization. Come prepared with a rudimentary analysis of opportunities, threats, and strengths as they apply to the organization, industry, and the market. On a more qualitative level, pay attention to the lingo used on the company website or blog, and use it in your interview. This is highly effective, and shows the interviewer that you’d be a good fit with the corporate culture.

Dress for the job you want

This means more than simply wearing a nice suit. Yes, you still need the nice suit - but you also must remember to dress your online self professionally as well. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is presentable and up to date. In your application process, you are very likely to be Google-searched, so take a look and see what appears in search results so that you can cleanup or update any website profiles that may be require action.

Show, don’t tell

As management interviews tend to be more competency based evaluations, come prepared to demonstrate how you exemplify some of the most sough after management skills. Be ready to speak to your experience in leadership, communication, decision-making, training, coaching, and conflict management. The key for success with this conversation is to have examples ready, and to be ready to explain specific situations where you have demonstrated your abilities in these areas.

Share your game plan

When you make it to the second interview, be ready to discuss your brief 90 day plan. What would you do in your first 90 days on the job? Identify areas you think you can enhance performance and share how you will handle them.

Think about your questions

You will inevitably be asked the loaded question: “Do you have any questions for me?” “No” is not a desirable answer to this question. Prepare at least three thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Think about what potential factors will affect your ability to perform, the prevalent management style in the organization, organizational goals, and what challenges the organization is facing.

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