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Case Study Strategies


How top executives approach “quick projects” without wasting 10+ hours


Projects are now a standard part of executive interviews — and they often consume far more time than expected. Based on insights from Whispered Pro members, here’s how to assess, clarify, and execute them to stand out without getting taken advantage of.


1. Assess the Investment Before You Start


Before rolling up your sleeves, ask yourself:

  • Am I a top candidate? Your time is valuable. Confirm you’re a serious contender before investing heavily.

  • Is the investment worth it? Projects are key decision points in the funnel. Estimate the time required and weigh it against your confidence in the opportunity.


Pro Tip: Ask directly where you stand in the process before accepting the project.


2. Don’t Just Do the Work — Engage and Clarify


Most candidates go heads-down on the project. Top candidates use it as a conversation starter.

Before starting, request a short alignment call with the hiring manager (10–15 minutes) to:

  • Clarify the problem and context

  • Build rapport with the hiring manager

  • Signal that you value mutual investment


If they won’t make time for you — that’s a data point.


Ask insightful and tailored questions:

  • What’s the core challenge you’re hoping to learn about through this project?

  • What concerns or gaps should I try to address?

  • How many candidates are at this stage? Am I a top contender?


Use this to read their culture and communication style. Are they responsive? Clear? Respectful of your time?


Avoid blind submissions.Always confirm you’ll have a live discussion to walk through your work. If they refuse, reconsider the investment.


"Top candidates always ask for time to discuss the project before going too far. When you ask for time, remember: you are on the clock. Tailored, smart questions can accelerate your candidacy. Going through the motions or asking generic questions will set you back.” - Exec Recruiter

3. Doing the Work (the Smart Way)


Every project is different — but the best candidates follow these principles:

  • Answer the prompt directly. Don’t pivot or reframe unless you’re clearly the frontrunner.

  • Use AI wisely. It’s fine to accelerate your draft with AI, but infuse your perspective and tone. Avoid “vanilla” outputs.

  • Add one “plus-one” idea. A bonus slide or insight that shows original thinking goes a long way.

  • Get peer feedback. Whispered members often share drafts with peers — it sharpens quality and reveals blind spots.


4. Additional Considerations


  • Don’t worry about protecting your work. Senior candidates know that ideas flow freely; confidence, not control, builds trust.

  • Expect some reuse. Companies may adopt ideas you present. If they do it without hiring you — that’s their mistake, not your loss.

  • Watch for red flags.

    • Unclear direction → poor leadership.

    • Long project timelines → lack of respect for candidate time.

    • No feedback → bad communication culture.


Closing Thought

Projects are less about the work and more about the interaction.Handled right, they let you show judgment, leadership, and curiosity — the traits companies actually hire for.

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