There’s been a noticeable increase in turnover at the senior executive level, and with it, a flood of leaders trying to break into Director, VP, and C-suite roles.

In this episode, Sean Barnes walks through what actually matters in executive interviews. From preparation and research to power dynamics and closing the conversation with confidence, this episode breaks down how senior leaders can stand out, bring real value, and show they’re ready to lead on day one.

If you’re interviewing for an executive role, or preparing for one, this episode is a must-listen.

Podcast Show Notes – Episode 266 | 01.27.2025

Episode Title: How Senior Executives Win Interviews (And Why Most Don’t)

Key Moments

00:00 – 00:57 – Why executive burnout conversations are missing the point

00:57 – 01:54 – The expectation gap: why executives must arrive ready to solve problems immediately

01:54 – 02:47 – How deep research separates you from average candidates

02:47 – 03:49 – Why asking targeted, informed questions instantly elevates your status

03:49 – 04:39 – Addressing the fear of “giving away solutions” during interviews

04:39 – 05:42 – How transparency about real challenges builds credibility, not weakness

05:42 – 06:30 – Why sharing lessons learned shows adaptability, growth, and leadership maturity

06:30 – 07:30 – The hidden power dynamic in interviews, and how to shift it

07:30 – 08:31 – Examples of executive-level questions that signal strategic thinking

08:31 – 09:38 – How to close an interview clearly without sounding desperate

09:38 – 10:45 – Taking initiative, driving next steps, and leading the process forward

Key Takeaways

1. Executive interviews are about value, not potential

At the senior level, organizations expect you to contribute immediately. Preparation and insight are table stakes, not bonuses.

1. The strongest candidates change the conversation

Great executives don’t wait until the end to ask questions. They create dialogue, challenge thinking, and engage as peers.

1. Leadership shows up in how you close

Clarity, confidence, and initiative at the end of an interview leave a lasting impression and reinforce executive presence.

Host: Sean Barnes

Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com

https://www.seanbarnes.com

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives

https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/

LinkedIn Newsletter:

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/

The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/

YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com

Twitter: https://x.com/seanbarnes

https://x.com/wolfexecutives

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes

https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives

https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes

Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com

Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15