Just recently, we shared views on what to look for as CIO when changing jobs and presented exclusive tips on that theme by headhunters. In this post, we hope to share the importance of preparing for interview questions for CIO positions.
If you have already been tested thoroughly by headhunters and have actually been invited for an interview, some questions are waiting for you. These can decide your future career as a management boss! The CIO Magazine talked with Amanda Hite, founder and head of personnel consulting firm Talent Revolution. They have identified the main questions budding CIOs must reflect on. We summarized the most important questions for you and added this some important tips in this post. Then while you prepare, do use these questions and reflect more …
1. How do you see your networks?
Just executives and just of those who work in the IT field, it is expected that they understand the importance of a functioning ‘network’ – and maintain it well. As a technical management position, you are definitely expected to know what are the key professional networking sites, how to get in touch with recruiters and other employees alike. And most importantly how to be able to manage your personal brand online- say on career platforms like LinkedIn, or Experteer.
2. How do you evaluate your Internet presence?
This should be obvious for a CIO in today’s times. It’s no secret that your prospective employer is extensively informed about you before he personally speaks with you for the first time. So it’s important to pay attention to your online profiles on different networks. It is also important to consistently standout to headhunters. When asked in an interview about your online presence, then you should know what the HR manager has previously found out about you. Do you an invisible or inactive profiles? Then get them to reflect your current professional situation or delete them.
3. How do you manage prioritization or concentration?
According to Amanda Hite the prospective employer is trying to find out how you can deal with today’s flood of information. Explain your strategy here. This is important to actually all personnel in the IT sector.
4. How do you stay on top of the current information/tech changes?
Again, this is a question specifically for CIOs. Here you must prove that you are aware of the latest trends and know how technological innovation can best be implemented for your business. If you are not ahead of the curve or at least informed, you have no chance here.
5. What new changes have your implemented? Share a few examples with us
The aim here is to show the HR decision-makers which problem-solving strategies you have to offer and most importantly how do you communicate it within the company. The CIO is the strategic head of a company on whose input any CEO will need. Show that you can deal with this responsibility.
If you can answer these questions in a clever and authentic manner, you are already good for your next job interview. However, this is of little use if you fall pray to the most common mistakes in interviewing. Therefore, we have listed the three most important errors that you should absolutely avoid.
1. The ex-employer
If you have had bad experiences in your last job, then is certainly not the right time for a rant. If you criticize your ex-employer in the interviews, you run the risk of giving the impression that the desired position is intended just out of frustration and no real enthusiasm.
2. Dishonesty
Anyone who has hurt his integrity potentially at the start of employment, will sooner or later have to face the consequences. Honestly deal with things and prepare yourself for any potential issues. Because the later a lie is revealed, the more serious the consequences.
3. Poor body language
Correct body language is often underestimated in the context of a job interview, especially with regard to the effect on the other party. An upright seating position or a firm handshake can have much to say about you. Lack of eye contact, however, to mumbling conversation and timid gestures signal low self-confidence. Also remember to follow appropriate dress code.
Now the only thing that remains is to wish you good luck!
