I am always amazed at how candidates for senior level roles often fail to adequately prepare for an interview, and do not arrive armed with insightful questions showing that he or she has done a considerable amount of homework preparing for the interview. I hear clients wax on about the quality of a candidate who wows them with killer questions, not just one, but a one-two punch that takes the conversation to whole other level.

This may seem basic and like simple math, but you would be surprised at how often we see candidates who move way up in the rankings based on the questions that they ask. And it doesn't end there: follow up your interview with a thoughtful and well prepared note that clearly states your interest, establishes that you listened and understand the role, and look forward to next steps.

I am likewise amazed at how many candidates fail to send a note, or, if they do, it's a short, “nice to meet U.” That's not an equation that adds up.