Here is top 10 key skills and competencies that hiring managers want to find in executive candidates:
Leadership
The ability to lead, motivate and inspire teams towards achieving common goals is a critical competency that is highly valued in executives.
2. Strategic thinking
Executives need to be able to think and plan strategically, taking into account long-term objectives and potential risks and opportunities.
3. Business acumen
A strong understanding of business operations, financial management, marketing, and sales is essential for executives.
4. Communication
Executives must be effective communicators, able to convey complex information and ideas clearly and concisely to various stakeholders, both internally and externally.
5. Decision-making
Executives need to be able to make informed decisions quickly and confidently, often under pressure.
6. Adaptability
Executives must be adaptable and able to pivot quickly in response to changing market conditions, industry trends, and customer needs.
7. Relationship-building
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders is crucial for executives.
8. Emotional intelligence
Executives with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to manage conflicts, build trust, and inspire and motivate teams.
9. Innovation
The ability to innovate and drive change is highly valued in executives, as it enables organizations to stay ahead of the competition.
10. Technical expertise
In some industries, executives may need to possess technical expertise related to their field. For example, executives in the technology sector may need to be knowledgeable about software development, data analytics, or cybersecurity.
Overall, hiring managers seek executives who possess a combination of technical skills, business acumen, leadership qualities, and soft skills such as communication and emotional intelligence.