Request for Question Clarification by
ozguru-ga
on
13 Aug 2002 22:19 PDT
Dear vistaro,
This is a fascinating question, but with the available information, I
can only list some general thoughts which I hope may help your
presentation.
- List your honest responses to the above questions as the basis for
the presentation. In my humble opinion this would provide the best
basis for your presentation... This is what you believe. Then possibly
soften or modify it to their expectations...
Do they need someone to start acting immediately? 3 months sounds a
reasonable time to learn the company, market etc? Do they want a
strong leader who takes the initiative? Or do they want a more
consultative, implementor of corporate policy? Telecoms.... Do they
have current problems and are looking for a magician problem solver or
downsizer? Do they want a multiskilled sector head: sales, marketing,
finance, manufacturing or are the roles sharply defined and your prime
function would be to increase sales? How does your role interact with
the other sector heads and your management?
- If their idea or your role differs from yours... are you
sufficiently brave to highlight the difference at this stage?
- How much uncertainty do you want to portray in your presentation?
You can't be expected to have the same knowledge that you would after
working in the role for 3 months or even 3 weeks... Acknowledge this,
by backing any recommendations with available data, perhaps subject to
further fact finding or confirmation.
- I would suggest that you must demonstrate significant research and
understanding on the company, its structure, products, processes,
markets, customers, competitors, problems, opportunities. An implicit
SWOT analysis.
- While the above knowledge should be demonstrated by all candidates,
you may be able to distinguish yourself by also demonstrating an
understanding of the political landscape. What were the "people"
difficulties faced by the previous sector head and how would you do
better. Demonstrate how you already have knowledge of current staff:
sector heads and those in your potential sector.
- How are you going to improve the performance of your sector and of
the company?
- Answer the question: Why should they hire you.
- Demonstrate your strengths with concrete examples.
- Prepare for standard questions: weaknesses, past problems, best
parts, worst parts of previous jobs.
- If you enter the presentation uncertain of their expectations, can
you obtain feedback during the presentation and adjust your
presentation accordingly. In a many "real" company meetings this would
standard practice. ie present an idea then ask for specific comments.
Can you outline a three month plan where the initial portion is
specific fact finding?
Wishing you good luck and enjoyment,
Regards,
