Interviewing Skills for Technology Executives

Though the old stereotype of a socially awkward, poorly dressed techie no longer dominates, recruiters say that, even at the six-figure level, residual effects remain. Speaking in “tech-ese,” or using too many technical terms in an interview with people who may not share their background, was a common recruiter concern for candidates in search of technology jobs. “A lot of them know their stuff but need guidance as to their interpersonal skills. Some are just used to interacting with other technology professionals, but are now in roles that make it necessary for them to interact with everyone.

Even with cutting edge technology skills, they still need to learn to speak in plain English to non-techies,” said Harold Laslo, a staffing specialist at the Aldan Troy Group in New York. It’s no secret that technology evolves rapidly. In a field where staying on top of the latest technology changes and developments is essential, Laslo says that he will always ask candidates how they plan to stay up to date. “They may have skills with a technology that reached its peak two, three or four years ago, but a candidate can be left behind if they haven’t adapted their skills since then.”