Interview Success: Tips for Candidates and Clients from Executive Recruiters

Job interviews are much more than a formal step in the hiring process - they’re also an opportunity for candidates to showcase their skills and culture fit, and for clients to identify the right talent for their organization. At The Keller Group, we’ve worked with countless candidates, executives, and hiring managers, and we’ve seen what separates successful interviews from the rest. Now that you built a stand out resume and landed a job interview, we’re here to help you prep with purpose. Rest assured that our team of Keller Group executive recruiters always prepare candidates with comprehensive interview prep guides that outline our team’s notes on the organization, hiring managers (the team you meet with), position needs, and topics to prepare for. Here’s our tips and tricks for both candidates and clients to make the most out of every interview going forward.

For Candidates: Preparing to Shine

1. Research the Company and Role

Understanding the company’s mission, vision, values, and culture is key. Look beyond their website by exploring company LinkedIn pages and employee profiles, press releases and industry news in the media, in addition to browsing their social media platforms. This preparation allows you to tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest. 

2. Stay Structured with the STAR Method

Behavioral questions are common in interviews at every level. Structure your answers strategically by using Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) to clearly communicate and showcase your achievements and complex problem-solving skills. You’ll want to identify 3-4 key examples from your current role or past professional experiences. Bonus tip: Use AI tools to create mock interview questions from the job description.

3. Ask Intentional and Impactful Questions

Interviewers notice candidates who ask meaningful questions. Make sure to match your questions based on who you’re interviewing with. This shows engagement, curiosity, and strategic thinking. Avoid generic questions and ask more about team dynamics, leadership expectations, and key priorities on a daily/weekly/monthly basis for the role itself. 

4. Practice, but Stay Authentic

Rehearsing answers is essential, but avoid sounding scripted. Authenticity naturally builds trust and makes a memorable and lasting impression.

5. Connect with Your Trusted Talent Advisor Post-Interview

You’ll want to connect with your executive recruiter at The Keller Group immediately following your interview to debrief. Why? Our clients look to our team to share your thoughts and feedback to hopefully keep things moving forward. Reach out to your recruiter as soon as your interview wraps so we can find time to connect shortly after. All communications (thank you notes, check-ins, etc.) are streamlined through our recruiting firm post-interview and during this process.

For Clients: Evaluating Candidates Effectively

1. Structure the Interview

Define a clear agenda for each interview. Include questions that measure both technical skills and cultural fit, ensuring a holistic view of the candidate.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions reveal problem-solving abilities, leadership style, and how candidates think on their feet or define their own individual approach to specific scenarios.

3. Provide Clear Communication

Candidates appreciate clarity. We recommend sharing the role’s overall responsibilities, success metrics, and team dynamics. Clear communication and expectations help candidates determine if the role is the right fit, which saves time for everyone involved.

4. Observe Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

Skills can be taught, but cultural fit is critical for long-term success. Pay attention to communication style, adaptability, and alignment with company values and expectations. 

At The Keller Group, we build relationships with both candidates and clients to facilitate interviews that lead to successful placements. When both sides come prepared, interviews become more than a formality - they become a platform for growth, connection, and opportunity. 

Ready to take your interviews to the next level? Whether you’re looking for your next role or seeking top talent for your team, The Keller Group is here to support you in every step of the way. Connect with our team today!