My first instinct was to defend myself and I almost went down that road.
Acknowledge the executive's concern without defensiveness, then pivot to demonstrating value through relevant experience and a customer-centric mindset. Show that you respect their perspective while confidently establishing your credibility by focusing on how you can solve their problems.
Pro tip: Don't try to prove your credentials with a resume recital; instead, ask a thoughtful question about their business challenges and offer a relevant insight, turning the conversation into a collaborative discussion.
Thank the executive for their candor and acknowledge that trust must be earned. Show empathy for their position and the importance of working with someone they can rely on.
Briefly highlight a relevant accomplishment or experience that directly relates to their industry or challenge, but keep it concise and focused on outcomes rather than titles.
Shift the focus to the customer by asking about their current priorities, pain points, or goals. This demonstrates active listening and a genuine interest in their success.
Share a quick, high-level observation or best practice from your experience that addresses their question or challenge, showcasing your expertise without being pushy.
Suggest a concrete next step, such as a follow-up meeting or a deeper dive into a specific problem, to move the relationship forward and prove your value over time.
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.