Preparing for a pre job interview meeting with a CEO

[Buzz Lightyear]

Rights gents, just looking for some advise on how I could prepare for tomorrow.

I sent a speculative email to a CEO of FTSE100 company, saying how much I like their products etc., and would love the opportunity to work for them. To my amazement, he emailed me back within 2 hours, answering all my questions, and copied in his PA asking her to set up a meeting so we can "have a coffee".

So it's been about 2 months since we emailed, as this was the earliest date available.

Just unsure on how to prepare as it's not a job interview per say, but I would like it to lead to one. Know the company inside out, as well as researching him the best I can. Anything you'd bring up?

Thanks.

[Buzz Lightyear]

Cheers gents.

Strangely nervous. Never nervous for this sort of thing.

I'll feedback later.

[Buzz Lightyear]

Just to update those who offered some advice.

Went really well, got out, shared some jokes etc. so really happy.

Left it on that he would have a word with some relevant managers and see if they have a position available, or open one up. Then get me back in an meet with them and we'll take it from there.

Fingers crossed they have a suitable position.

[Buzz Lightyear]

pmanson said:

I had one of these last week (not FTSE) but a recent start up company.

Informal chat with CEO and now need to make a decision whether or not to proceed to having an interview.

I've been going back and forth with myself as to whether or not to make the jump (if I proceed i want to go in with everything intention of getting the job). Small SaaS company (<10 employees) and i'd be responsible for sales.

My skill set is principally as a consultant (farmer) and have a very good track record in this but this would push me slightly out of my comfort zone into hunting. No cold calling but starting from scratch and building a business.

I've been at my current place for just over four years and helped it grow considerably but now feel at a cross-roads. Is it worth having a conversation with my current Boss? Or is that going to be seen as rocking the boat?

Depends on what you think about the new company, and if it will grow. If you practically heading up sales, and it were to grow, that's a good place to be.

[Buzz Lightyear]

So just a little update.

Sent a thank you email the next day. Everyone always says an actual letter is better than an email, but I've never had any bad feedback about a thank you email. In fact, every interviewer has always said how rare it is to get one now days which amazes me.

Just a general nice to meet you, here's my contact details again as it's been a while. Hope we can do something soon etc.

Got an email back saying thanks for the details, I will get back to you as soon as I can find an opening for you.

Then I get another two minutes after, saying something along the lines of "Where are my manners? Completely forgot to say thank you very much for coming in also. It was very much a pleasure on my behalf as well Have a nice evening, we will talk soon".

A bloody smiley face! Just shows as some of you have stated, their only people like you and I at the end of the day.

Now I'm just twiddling my thumps, checking my emails, waiting for my phone to ring. I'm like a kid at Christmas!