How to Answer: Tell me about a time you were required to give an executive-level presentation.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an IT Business Consultant job interview.
14. Tell me about a time you were required to give an executive-level presentation.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
IT business consultants are often required to present discovery and analysis findings to executives responsible for setting goals and approving technology budgets. Interviewers ask this question to ensure candidates are comfortable communicating in a format that resonates with company leaders.
Written by Karrie Day on March 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid stories about presentations that you did not lead or played a minor role in. Additionally, avoid examples in which your communication was received poorly or confused your target audience.
Written by Karrie Day on March 8th, 2022
What You Should Say
It is possible that a potential candidate will not have had the opportunity to personally present to executives. If this is the case, be honest about your experience. Explain that you understand that executive presentations are high-level and communicate items such as business impact, budgetary needs, and trends. Provide examples of other important presentations you have given to demonstrate you are comfortable speaking under pressure.
Written by Karrie Day on March 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was hired as a consultant to review all of the scheduling and payroll procedures for an organization experiencing inefficiencies. I identified the workflows that had the most impact on the business goals I was provided, and put together an executive summary with my recommendations for tactical and strategic changes.
The senior vice president of the organization was surprised to learn that many of the issues I highlighted were caused by improper use of technology they already had. Her staff had previously convinced her that their issues were a result of them not having access to the latest technology. I showed her how several major pain points could be easily resolved through minor workflow and setup changes. She thanked me for my direct and easy-to-understand language and invited me to work with her team to assist them in developing an implementation strategy."
Written by Karrie Day on March 8th, 2022