This article includes tips on navigating the interview process.
First Screening Call
On the first screening call, you will want to come prepared with your Talk Track and some initial Diligence questions but also here are some good questions to ask when you first talk to the recruiter.
What is the DNA of the company (engineering, product, sales/marketing)?
Why is the role being opened?
Is the role a backfill or a new role?
What is working with the team right now vs. what problems are you looking to solve?
Where is the process?
Interviewers
You should always be prepared with questions. Many executives leave room for you to ask questions and if you have none it is a big red flag for most as it highlights a lack of intellectual curiosity and engagement in the process.
Do your homework and ask questions based on what you have learned and what questions you have.
"Don't ever ask the CEO 'What keeps you up at night?' That means you literally did no homework for this interview and you are asking the most generic question you can ask to a leader". Nick Mehta (see terrific podcast with Nick on careers and interviewing)
After each round of interviews
Recruiters (both internal and those at the company) will ask you “How did the convos with X and Y go”. Try to have a prepared phrase or two for each person you met (i.e. one thing you learned from speaking with that person, be positive).
Companies use each touchpoint to evaluate culture fit. They work to build rapport outside of the formal process and are looking to understand 'Is the person we are interviewing the same person who will show up the first day?' In-House Recruiting Leader
Always follow-up with a thank you email summarizing key points and framing next steps. When a candidate doesn’t do this, hiring managers may question their ability to manage up.
Follow up quickly. This highlights how proactive you are to work with
Do you know how to leverage recruiters, talent partners and investors in your search?
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