My client called me right after he interviewed two people. “I just don’t see Mike being very effective with our CEO. He just doesn’t have the chops for it.” Then his tone brightened, “But Susan would be perfect. She’d fit right in with our executive team. They’d hit it off right away.” So Susan was scheduled to meet the CEO, and Mike’s interview process was over.
So in that one-hour interview, what exactly did Susan demonstrate that Mike didn’t?
Both candidates were ambitious. Both had strong resumes. Both were professional, well-dressed and well-spoken. Mike desperately wanted to join the ranks of senior management. He longed for “a seat at the table” where decisions were made.
Mike wanted it, but Susan got it.