After an initial phone interview, executive assistant (EA) candidates participate in Experience Day. First, there’s a role simulation in which they demonstrate their decision-making and communication skills. Next, there’s a group exercise where candidates collaborate to solve problems. I’m not focused on candidates’ ability to produce the “correct” answer – there isn’t just one way to solve a problem. What I’m observing is their thought process and how they operate in a team. As EAs support individuals, their work requires them to work with other EAs, colleagues and clients at all tenure levels and around the world. The day concludes with each candidate participating in two individual interviews and I’m one of the colleagues with whom they meet.

Beware of ghosting! Phone interview with hiring manager and director was 4+ weeks ago. They promised to advise of the outcome within 2 weeks. Never heard back. The questions were your standard "tell me about a time when..." types. Nothing spectacular or out of the ordinary. Since the position was remote/virtual, they kept reiterating, multiple times, that you must work during working hours and not take care of personal obligations. Frankly that was off-putting, as though they do not trust your time management. We are all mature adults. Please treat us as such. They quoted a salary range for the position which was WELL BELOW the current market rate. At least 30 percent lower. Very much consistent with what other reviewers have said. Laughable considering the amount of knowledge required and the amount of work they were expecting you to do in the position. Heads up for those who do get an offer - be prepared to do a lot of salary negotiation!