DO prepare this question to be able to summarize the position (objective & background) in a concise and structured manner (aim for bullet points, or 3-minute elevator pitch mode).

DON’T repeat word for word the job description. Instead try to find ways to put it in your own words, making it personal and provide insight on your own experience and skills as pertain to it.

2. How do you analyze your profile compared to the position ?

DO do this before you even apply. There’s a good chance you don’t fit 100% of the requirements; it’s always appreciated to show you can appreciate your room to grow in the role and that you’re  looking to learn and fill the gaps.

DON’T say “this position is me” or try to make it emotional for you. Use facts, proof, concrete projects that could be beneficial for the position / company. Turn this into a demonstration of how this could be a win / win situation.

3. Why do you want to work for us?

DO voice your motivation using specific reasoning as to why a specific position / team / company would make sense in your career progression (the idea that you want to build something with this company is important here).

DON’T (EVER) use the tactic of “you came for me, I’m fine where I am” if you’ve been contacted by the company or a recruiter. If you come for an interview, then take it seriously.

4. Why do you want to leave your current position? 

DO explore two options here: either you do actually want to leave, and be open as to why, whatever the reasons (honesty is always best). If you are not actively in the market for a new role but are still interested in the position, you can say that as well – though make sure you communicate which specific elements related to the position / company caught your attention.

DON’T be dismissive of current / past employers – try to be as objective as possible and show that while your current situation might have been a good fit for you in the past, it just is not anymore.

5. What would your former employer / manager / colleagues say about you?

DO try and be self-critical: you obviously have strengths but over the years your manager probably found areas of improvement. It shows you can be analytical without being egotistic. This is also and obviously an opportunity to discuss your assets.

DON’T let your ego speak for you. Try to put yourself in your manager’s shoes (which also demonstrates adaptability and empathy) and to be as objective as possible.

6. What was the biggest challenge / difficulty in your last (or current) position ?

DO pick something that is particularly relevant to the position or that you’re particularly proud of. And make sure you explain clearly how you managed to workaround an obstacle or which lessons you were able to draw from this particular setback (using facts & figures or KPIs is also good).

DON’T pick an example that might show you were not able to analyze the reasons for your failure or that you misunderstood the context or the position you’re applying for, ie: if a position requires a certain degree in autonomy, or fluency in an international environment, try not to point these out as criteria you’re uncomfortable with.

7. What would be the next step / ideal job for you?

DO be straightforward about your ambitions. There’s nothing wrong with setting goals for yourself and actively creating the conditions for your success.

DON’T express the idea that the job you’re applying for is just a “transition” while you really have something else in sight. Always voice your motivation and dedication to short term perspectives while making sure you convey the message that this specific move is the next key step in your executive career.

8. What are your salary expectations? 

DO prepare this question. Scan the market for what the salary ranges go for similar positions ; feel comfortable with demanding an increase – but a credible one (asking for a preposterous amount will not do you good – quite the opposite, showing you do not know your market).

DON’T be shy about this question – salary should not be your sole motivator but you should be able to talk about it openly. It’s a good thing to be flexible – it’s not to be clueless.

9. Who could be a reference for you?

DO think in advance of previous managers (always a better choice than peers / former colleagues) who could be references for you. Down the line, specifically for senior / executive positions, this will be a routine step, so don’t be surprised. It’s also fine to ask for time to advise your references before a potential employer calls them.

DON’T be embarrassed to provide references in the case you’re currently employed, or try and hide the fact that a former manager of yours would not be a good reference for you. Be 100% open.

10. Are you currently involved in other recruitment processes? 

DO be honest. If you are, it’s fine to mention it (and it’s ok to mention for which position / which company as well), if you aren’t – then be honest about that as well.

DON’T try to play one offer against another, it will look like the “mercenary effect”, giving the impression that in 6 months you could do the same again. Think of what the pros and cons of each are before any company is ready to make you an offer. Choose the one company that offers the best mix, i.e. role, strategic environment, relations with managers, future opportunities and salary.

Bonus – Do you have questions?

DO have some relevant questions prepared – whether on the business or strategic plans over the next 3-5 years, on the possibilities for evolution of your position, on the team / management if it hasn’t been mentioned already

DON’T come up short or try and ask questions for the sake of asking questions – if you believe all the relevant information has been discussed in the interview, don’t feel forced to ask for unnecessary information, but rather take the lead and “close” the interview by offering to come back to the interviewer should you have further questions.