Answering Like an Executive: Why This One Interview Question Trips Up Tech Leaders

It’s one of the simplest questions you’ll get in an interview:

👉 “Why are you qualified for this role?”

Yet so many capable tech leaders fumble it—and end up stuck in manager-level positions even when they think they’re ready for more.

Why?

Because they answer like someone who’s done a lot, not someone who’s ready to lead even more.

Most responses sound like this:

• “I’ve worked in this field for 12 years.”
• “I built and led a 30-person engineering team.”
• “I delivered major products under budget.”

It’s all about proving they’ve executed well. But executives aren’t hired for their ability to execute. They’re hired for their ability to:

• Think big picture
• Align teams across functions
• Drive the business forward

If you’re only talking about your past work, without connecting it to the company’s future goals, you’ll be seen as a strong manager—but not the next strategic leader.

So how do you fix it?

In the latest blog, we break down a better way:

✅ Show you understand the company’s priorities and what success looks like in this role.

✅ Tell a short story proving you’ve tackled similar challenges.

✅ Wrap up by highlighting how you’ll add value moving forward.

We also give you a simple 4-step checklist to craft a clear, confident, and concise answer that positions you as executive-ready.

👉 Want to stop being overlooked and finally step into the leadership seat you’ve been working toward?

Read the full post here—it could be the difference between staying stuck or getting that offer.

https://drewsaur.com/answering-why-are-you-qualified-for-this-role/