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: Executive assistants must be able to prioritize tasks and manage competing priorities. This question reveals how a candidate will deal with situations that require them to make difficult decisions.
Sample Answer: I always start by prioritizing tasks based on their importance and deadlines. I then break down each task into smaller steps and assign a time frame for each step. This helps me stay organized and ensures that I’m not overwhelmed by the amount of work I have to do.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge a candidate’s interest in the University of Chicago and their understanding of the school’s mission.
Sample Answer: I chose the University of Chicago because it has a reputation for being one of the best universities in the world. I’m interested in studying economics and business, and I think that the University of Chicago’s curriculum will help me develop a strong foundation for my career.
Question Overview: This question reveals how a candidate will describe their responsibilities in a way that highlights their strengths and experience.
Sample Answer: I’ve held a variety of roles in my career, but the responsibilities that I’m most proud of are listed on my resume. I’m proud of my ability to juggle multiple projects at once, prioritize tasks and communicate effectively with my colleagues.
Question Overview: Executive assistants must be able to maintain confidentiality and discretion. This question reveals how a candidate will navigate complex office politics without betraying confidence, engaging in gossip or making thoughtless comments.
Sample Answer: If I had a concern about the information I was given, I would speak with the person who gave it to me and ask if they were sure they wanted me to share it. If they confirmed that they did, I would share it with the appropriate person. If they told me not to share it, I would respect their wishes.
Question Overview: Executive assistants must be able to navigate a variety of office environments and personalities. This question reveals how a candidate will respond to a new environment and how they will work with their new colleagues.
Sample Answer: I’ve read about Acceleration Partners in the news and have heard great things about the company from my friends who work here. I’m excited to learn more about the company’s mission and values and how I can contribute to the team.
Question Overview: Executive assistants often work with regional offices and remote employees, so it’s important to find out how a candidate will react to these situations. This question reveals how a candidate will handle the added responsibility of working with other offices.
Sample Answer: I’ve worked with regional offices in the past and have found that it’s important to be flexible and willing to work around their schedules. I’m comfortable working with them and would be happy to do so again.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often the first point of contact for new employees and are responsible for creating a welcoming environment. This question reveals how a candidate will encourage diversity and inclusion in the office.
Sample Answer: I’m a firm believer in the importance of diversity and inclusion. I’ve always been a strong advocate for women’s rights and have mentored young women who are interested in pursuing careers in STEM fields. I also make it a point to attend events hosted by minority organizations and support their causes.
Question Overview: Executive assistants must be able to handle difficult situations with tact and grace. This question reveals how a candidate will respond to conflict and pressure, and how they will represent their boss’s best interests.
Sample Answer: I was working with a new executive who was very demanding and had very specific expectations. I was able to work with him to create a schedule that met his needs while also allowing me to fulfill my responsibilities to the other executives.
Question Overview: Executive assistants are often the gatekeepers to their bosses and must be able to effectively communicate their value to others. This question reveals how a candidate will sell themselves to a hiring manager.
Sample Answer: I’m a highly organized, detail-oriented person who is always willing to go above and beyond for my boss and company. I’ve been told that I’m a great listener and that I have a calming presence that makes people feel comfortable. I’m also very tech-savvy and can help you with any computer problems you might have.
Question Overview: This question is used to find out why the candidate is interested in the company. It is important to know if the candidate is genuinely interested in the company or just applying for the job to fill in a vacancy.
Sample Answer: I have been a loyal customer of the brand for years. I have always loved your products and believe that they are of superior quality. I am very excited about the opportunity to work for such a well-respected brand.