Do Senior Leaders Still Get Interview Nerves?

Tips for Managers and Executives:

No matter how high up the career ladder you climb, interviews can still be nerve-wracking. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role, transitioning to a different industry, or simply out of practice, the pressure to perform can feel immense. But how can experienced professionals keep their cool and avoid common pitfalls? 

We aren’t here to teach you to suck eggs, but thought we’d share some practical strategies to help managers and executives like you navigate the interview process with confidence. 

1. Acknowledge That Nerves Are Normal 

You might be leading teams, managing big budgets, or shaping company strategy, but an interview can still make you feel uneasy and uncomfortable. Because it’s one of the few moments in your professional career where you’re being assessed rather than leading the conversation. Acknowledging that nerves are a natural response can help you reframe them as energy rather than anxiety. 

2. Prepare Like You Would for a Board Meeting 

Just as you wouldn’t walk into a SLT meeting without preparation, the same applies to interviews. Beyond researching the company, take time to: 

• Understand the challenges the business is facing and be ready to discuss how you can help solve them. 

• Know your own career story inside out. Senior leaders often have a vast portfolio of experience, but interviews require sharp storytelling. Have clear, concise examples of your achievements and leadership impact. 

• Be ready for scenario-based questions. Expect to be asked about handling crises, change management, or influencing stakeholders. Frame your answers using real-life examples. 

3. Master the Balance Between Confidence & Curiosity 

As a leader, you bring expertise, but the best executives know that learning never stops. Avoid coming across as someone who “knows it all” by demonstrating: 

• A willingness to listen and ask insightful questions. 

• An adaptable mindset, showing how you’ve grown in previous roles. 

• An understanding that leadership is as much about collaboration as it is about strategy. 

4. Beware of the Executive-Level Interview Traps 

Even the most seasoned professionals fall into common pitfalls, such as: 

• The drawn-out monologue. Even the most experienced candidates can sometimes talk too much, particularly when discussing strategy. Keep answers clear and to the point. 

• Sharing too much. Have you ever had an interview where your ideas were later implemented, even though you didn’t get the job? Be mindful of how much strategic insight you give away. 

• Underestimating cultural fit. Many senior hires fail not because of skills gaps, but due to a mismatch in company culture. Show how you align with the company’s values. 

5. Anticipate the Long Process 

Unlike early-career roles, leadership positions often involve multiple rounds of interviews, stakeholder meetings, and presentations.  A long-drawn-out process isn’t ideal but expect the process to take weeks or even in some cases months. Believe us, we know this can be frustrating, but staying engaged and patient is key. 

6. Stay Calm Under Pressure 

When faced with tough questions or unexpected challenges during an interview, using these techniques could help: 

• Pause before answering to gather your thoughts. 

• Reframe tricky questions by linking them to your strengths. 

• Use power poses and deep breathing techniques before stepping into the room (yes, these still work at every career stage!). 

Share Your Experiences! 

Have you faced an unexpectedly tough executive interview? Ever had your ideas taken without being offered the role? Share your insights and horror stories in the comments!

Let’s start a conversation about what senior leaders can do to ace their interviews and protect their value in the process.