Recently at Nutrition Talent we successfully recruited for a Science Chief Operating Officer position within a highly innovative nutrition company. Reflecting on the process, we wanted to share our top five pieces of advice for how to land a high-level nutrition job.
Tip 1: Unearth your complexity
We were approached by a fast-paced, high profile, rapidly growing company looking to fill a brand-new senior executive role. Critical to success was finding someone with a blend of expertise, skills, mindset and approach. In this case we were looking for:
- Scientific expertise blended with operations experience
- Knowledge of and ideally experience working in tech
- Ability to thrive in the very fast paced, ambitious environment of this start-up company
What’s your magic mix?
Complex senior roles require a breadth of experience. The further we get through our careers the more of this wider experience we can bring into applications. Look carefully at the job description to be clear on the additional qualities the organisation is looking for, beyond the qualifications and job titles. In this case, ability to move quickly, hit the ground running and make strong decisions was just as fundamental to success as science and nutrition expertise.
Tip 2: Filter facts
For this highly sought after position, we reviewed hundreds of CVs. It is therefore vital you make yours stand out and maximise the information included, succinctly.
- Summarise your experience to include only the most relevant information – a CV should be two pages max. with an additional publications list if necessary
- The best CVs were well presented and clear
- Include key statistics, achievements and proof points
- Tailor your application using the job description
- Only apply if you meet essential criteria – people applied for this role without any scientific qualifications
- Complete all sections of online applications to demonstrate enthusiasm
- Make it clear why you would be excited to work for the organisation
Tip 3: Do your homework
Nutrition Talent always screens candidates before presenting them to the client for every role we recruit for – it is a key part of our rigorous process. In this case, we conducted the first stage interview with every candidate.
Our questions were a mix of
- Understanding career history
- Technical expertise
- Ways of working
- Career aspirations
We were looking for examples of working cross-functionally and with senior leaders, making big decisions, influencing and leadership skills. These are all standard for a first interview at a high level and therefore are questions you should prepare for.
It’s vital you do your homework about the company before the first interview. This comes across clearly and enables you to speak knowledgably and with relevance, especially if you can relate some of your successes to areas that are critical to theirs.
Ensure your questions are answered too. Interviews should be a two-way process. In this case, examples included asking about the company size and structure, reporting lines and workplace culture. Asking these types of questions builds understanding and helps you decide if it would be the right workplace for you. It also demonstrates your deep interest and consideration of factors that are likely to impact your success in role.
Tip 4: Remember impressions matter
When doing an interview virtually, the visible background and clothing give important first impressions. Most senior candidates dressed smartly as they would for an in-person interview and had tidy workspaces, but this wasn’t always the case. Make sure you test your technology in advance so you will be punctual and relaxed on the day.
Manner really matters – it is so important to fully engage and show enthusiasm, politeness and professionalism. Strong candidates kept in touch throughout the process with timely, friendly messages. These were not pushy but demonstrated interest. Building strong relationships can help within the current process but if you aren’t successful, building that rapport with a recruitment organisation like us helps us to get to know you better and you are more likely to be top of mind for future opportunities.
Tip 5: Keep investing in you
At this very senior level, some candidates had not applied for or interviewed for a new role for a long time. Part of our role was to provide advice and encouragement during the interview process. Imposter syndrome exists at the highest level and it was a reminder that no-one is completely immune to it. See Series 2 Episode 7 of the Humans of Nutrition podcast for some tips on how to conquer it.
You can also reach out for support and an additional perspective. Career advice at all levels of seniority is available and worthwhile and can provide additional motivation and inspiration. Members of our community can access our monthly Career Conversations in which we provide free career coaching. You can register here.
If we can help your organisation with recruitment, whether it is for an executive level position such as this one or a graduate role, contact us to discuss your requirements.