Congratulations on landing an interview for your dream Executive Assistant role!
Your resume got you in the door, but the real test is how you show up in person (or on that video call!). Think of it as your chance to prove that you're not just a list of skills on paper, but the dynamic, organized, and proactive EA they're looking for.
To ace the interview, it's all about preparation and presentation:
Research is Your Best Friend:
Let's be real, walking into an interview without doing your research is like showing up to a wedding in a tracksuit – awkward! To make a lasting impression, you need to show the interviewers that you're genuinely interested in them.
To go above and beyond:
Company Deep Dive: Go beyond the company website. Check out their social media, news articles, and even employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor. Get a feel for their culture, values, and current projects.
Know Your Interviewers: If you have the names of the people interviewing you, look them up on LinkedIn. Understanding their roles and backgrounds can help you tailor your responses.
Prepare for the Unexpected: Research common EA interview questions. But also brainstorm potential curveball questions they might throw your way.
Dress for Success:
They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but in the interview world, first impressions matter. The way you present yourself speaks volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail – two qualities that are absolutely essential for any EA. Think of your outfit as your interview armor; it should make you feel confident, put-together, and ready to take on any challenge they throw your way.
To make the best impression:
Professionalism is Key: Even if the company has a casual dress code, err on the side of being more formal for the interview. I´m not suggesting going in a ball gown, but it´s always better to be overdressed rather than underdressed.
Attention to Detail: Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and fit well. It goes without saying, but make sure you shower and brush your teeth and double check yourself before you go in to the building.
The Question & Answer Game:
I´m sure you will have seen this before- you're sitting across from the hiring manager, and they ask you a question that completely throws you off guard. Panic sets in, and you start rambling. You can hear yourself spouting absolute rubbish and at some stage you just don´t know how to stop. To avoid this interview nightmare, it's crucial to prepare for all types of questions. By anticipating what they might ask and practicing your responses, you'll be able to deliver thoughtful, articulate answers that highlight your EA skills.
Be prepared to answer:
Behavioral Questions: These focus on how you've handled situations in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
Technical Questions: Be prepared to discuss your software skills, experience with specific tools or platforms, and knowledge of industry best practices.
"Tell Me About Yourself": They´re not really interested in your favourite show or what you get up to at the weekend. Instead, craft a concise, compelling narrative that highlights your most relevant skills and experiences.
Your Turn: Have a few insightful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the role. Remember that an interview is a two way street, so ask some questions that you really want to know the answer to.
Body Language Matters:
You might have the perfect answers prepared, but if your body language is screaming "nervous wreck," your message will get lost in translation. Remember, communication is more than just words. Your posture, eye contact, and even your smile can convey confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism. So, channel your inner superstar and let your body language do the talking.
To project confidence:
Eye Contact: Maintain good eye contact throughout the interview. It shows confidence and engagement. You´re not on a first date here, you don´t need to feel shy.
Posture: Sit up straight and avoid fidgeting. I know this can be tricky because I´m a terrible fidgeter, but if you need to, even clasping your hands together can help stop you from seeming too nervous. Stillness and a controlled amount of physical expression can project an air of professionalism and poise.
Smile: I know there´s nothing worse than being told to smile, but in this case it´s not about looking prettier, it´s about coming off as more approachable. As an EA, people have to feel that they can ask you things and as the first port of access to your executive, you have to remember that you´re the face of the company. A genuine smile can go a long way in making a positive impression.
You've Got This!
Remember, interviews are a two-way street. It's not just about them evaluating you; it's also your chance to assess if the company and the role are a good fit for you. Remember to ask about their expectations, their attitude towards development, what the benefits are that come with the job (especially in the USA, it´s crucial to enquire about their medical insurance policy) Prepare well, be confident, and let yourself shine!
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