The experts at MarketPro have been placing top talent in key C-Suite marketing positions for over 25 years. During an executive search, we pre-screen and select only the top-tier candidates to move forward to the executive interview process. It is always interesting to see how both the hiring organization and the candidates manage this process.
What Does A Shorter Than Expected Interview Mean?
When you are interviewing for a high-level marketing position such as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), you may be inclined to gauge your performance by how long your interview lasts. For instance, you might be scheduled for a ninety-minute interview, but it ends after about an hour, or it may extend beyond the time scheduled.
Do not judge your performance based on the length of your interview, and more importantly, allow the interview to end on a professional note. If the interview wraps up sooner than expected, stay composed and avoid making jokes or dismissive comments about how you did because the truth is that you do not know.
Good interviewers can effectively steer the conversations and questions in the direction they need to go so they can get what they need from the candidate in the least amount of time. The more senior the interviewer, the more they value, prioritize and safeguard their time.
It may be that they have determined that you are not a good fit for the position, or it could simply mean that they have gathered the necessary information sooner than they expected and are confident they can send you on to the next round.
The Hiring Organization Is Looking For Specific Traits And Qualifications
The interview process for top-level executive positions is extensive because the chosen candidate will have a huge impact on advancing the company to the next level. Positions like a CMO require a very specific blend of skills and experience, so the interview process is not just about filling a generic vacancy but about finding the individual who can make major contributions to the organization’s strategic direction, drive revenue, manage multiple marketing channels, and more, while also being a good fit within the company’s current culture.
Focus On The Content You Are Providing
In my tenure with MarketPro, I have seen interviews run long where the candidate did not successfully make it to the next round, and interviews that were cut short where the candidate was the organization’s top choice. While interviews that end early do mean something, it is not always related to your performance.
The process is designed to investigate the competency of a candidate related to leadership, strategic thinking, vision alignment, and more. Sometimes this can be achieved fairly early in the interview, or it may require a more extended discussion. Your most important concern should be focusing on the quality of your responses and connecting with the interviewer, not how much time is left on the clock.
Provide Quality Responses That Helps The Interviewer Envision You In The Role
Regardless of whether your interview is cut short or extended, it is important to keep in mind that the quality and relevance of your experience and how well you position your answers are what matter most, not the length of time spent in the interview. Be well prepared, remain professional and confident, and demonstrate why you are the best fit for the role.
MarketPro Can Help You Make The Next Strategic Move
Trust MarketPro to take your marketing career to the next level. Our deep industry-specific connections and over two decades of experience give us a distinct advantage in connecting exceptional talent with premier marketing opportunities. Partner with the industry leaders in the marketing executive search field and let us help you take the next step in advancing your career.