Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate feels about the company and whether they’re motivated to work there. It’s also a chance for you to learn more about the candidate’s career goals and aspirations.
Sample Answer: I’ve always been fascinated by the way technology is changing the way we live and work, and I’m excited to be part of a company that is on the cutting edge of innovation.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate views the role of an executive assistant and whether they have the right attitude and aptitude for the job.
Sample Answer: I want to be an executive assistant because I’m passionate about supporting senior-level executives and making sure that they’re able to focus on their core responsibilities. I love being able to help people and make a positive impact on their lives.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often responsible for managing their boss’s schedule, so it’s important to find out how they prioritize their own tasks. This question reveals how a candidate prioritizes their time and manages their workload.
Sample Answer: I use a combination of my Outlook calendar and Google Calendar to keep track of my tasks and appointments. I also take advantage of my company’s time-tracking software to make sure I’m staying on top of my workload.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often put in the position of making decisions for their bosses. This question reveals how a candidate will handle this responsibility and make sound choices that benefit the company.
Sample Answer: My boss was out of the office for a week on business, so I had to make all of his travel arrangements. I had to decide whether to book him on a direct flight or a connecting flight, and I also had to decide whether to book him in first class or coach. I decided to book him on a direct flight in first class since he was traveling for business and would be able to work during the flight.
Question Overview: While this question is a common one, it’s important to ask it to determine how a candidate will handle their own shortcomings. This question reveals how a candidate will handle their own weaknesses and how they will handle the weaknesses of others.
Sample Answer: I’m a perfectionist, so I tend to spend too much time on projects and tasks until I feel like they’re perfect.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often the first point of contact for new employees and vendors, so it’s important that they have a solid understanding of how to make a good first impression. This question reveals how a candidate will introduce themselves and make others feel welcome.
Sample Answer: I’m very excited to join the team and look forward to meeting everyone. I’ll be sure to introduce myself at our next team meeting and will be sure to follow up with a personal email to each person on the team.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate will handle the stress of a high-pressure environment and how they will perform when faced with a challenge.
Sample Answer: I’m driven by the opportunity to help others and to make a difference in the world.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate will sell themselves to a hiring manager. It’s important that they highlight their strengths and explain how they’re a good fit for the role.
Sample Answer: I’m an experienced executive assistant with over 10 years of experience supporting high-level executives. I’ve worked in both small and large companies, so I know how to work in a variety of environments. I’m passionate about helping people and making sure that everyone is happy and comfortable.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate feels about their current role and whether they’re a good fit for your company. It also gives you insight into how they will react to the inevitable challenges that come with any job.
Sample Answer: I love working with my team and helping them achieve their goals. I’m not a huge fan of the commute, but I know that it’s worth it for the job I have.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often expected to work long hours and weekends. This question reveals how a candidate will handle the demands of the job, which can often include working in the office until late at night and on weekends.
Sample Answer: I’m available to work from 8:30am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. I’m also happy to work some weekends and evenings when needed.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate will reflect their boss’s values and serve as an effective gatekeeper – all while diffusing volatile situations.
Sample Answer: I’m known by my friends as their personal tech support specialist, so I love fixing things when they go wrong and can master new tools and programs quickly.
Question Overview: This question is designed to reveal a candidate’s passion for their work and commitment to their field. Answer attributes include:
Sample Answer: I love being an assistant professor because I get to work with students and help them develop their critical thinking skills. I also enjoy the freedom of choosing my own research topics and designing my own curriculum.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often called upon to relocate to different cities or states. This question helps you determine how willing a candidate is to relocate, which can be a deal-breaker for some candidates.
Sample Answer: I’ve relocated twice in the past five years, so I’m definitely willing to relocate again. I’m comfortable with the idea of moving to a new city or state, but I’d like to know more about the company’s relocation policy before accepting a position.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are in high demand, so it’s important to find out how quickly a candidate can start. This question reveals how flexible a candidate is and how quickly they can get up to speed.
Sample Answer: I’m available to start as soon as possible and can be fully up to speed within a week.
Question Overview: A candidate’s answer to this question reveals their personal values and work ethic. This question also helps you determine whether they’re motivated by money, recognition or a sense of purpose.
Sample Answer: I’m motivated by the satisfaction of a job well done. I love helping people and making a positive impact on my organization.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often required to work long hours, including weekends and holidays. This question reveals how a candidate will respond to the demands of the job.
Sample Answer: I’m always willing to put in extra time when it’s needed. I’m a hard worker who is committed to my job and my boss.
Question Overview: This question is a great way to gauge how much a candidate misses the job and whether they’re likely to leave for another opportunity.
Sample Answer: I miss the daily interactions with my executive and the sense of purpose that comes from being part of a team. I also miss being able to make a difference in my executive’s life and career.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often the first point of contact for executives and their peers. This question reveals how a candidate will represent their boss and the company to others, which is crucial for building strong relationships.
Sample Answer: I’m always looking to improve my communication skills. I’ve been taking a public speaking class at night and I’m hoping to take on more presentations in the future.
Question Overview: This is the most important question of all. The answer to this question will reveal whether the candidate is truly interested in the position or if they are just going through the motions.
Sample Answer: I’m ready to start right away!
Question Overview: This question is asked to see if the candidate is available for an interview.
Sample Answer: I am available on Thursday at 10am.