Top Executive Assistant Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

Navigating the path to securing an executive assistant role involves mastering the interview process, a crucial step that hinges on one’s ability to answer executive assistant interview questions effectively. These questions not only test a candidate’s experience and skills but also their ability to adapt and respond to the dynamic needs of executives. In this article, we delve into the questions you may encounter and provide insight on how to articulate your competencies and experiences with poise and confidence.

2. Understanding the Executive Assistant’s Role

The role of an executive assistant is pivotal within any organization, serving as the linchpin that holds the executive suite together. This multifaceted position goes beyond traditional administrative work; it demands a unique blend of skills including discretion, meticulous organization, and proactive problem-solving. It encompasses managing complex schedules, handling sensitive information, and serving as a communication conduit among stakeholders. In this context, interview questions are designed not only to gauge technical proficiency but also to assess soft skills and cultural fit. The ability to anticipate needs and deliver solutions with diplomacy and efficiency is what truly distinguishes a top-tier executive assistant.

3. Executive Assistant Interview Questions

1. Can you describe your previous experience as an executive assistant? (Experience & Background)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to focus on the aspects of your experience that are most relevant to the executive assistant role you’re interviewing for. Mention specific responsibilities you’ve held, the types of executives you’ve supported, and any particular achievements or projects that showcase your skills.

My Answer:
Certainly. I have over five years of experience working as an executive assistant. In my previous role at Company XYZ, I supported the CEO and the CFO. My responsibilities included managing their calendars, organizing travel arrangements, preparing and editing corporate documents, and acting as a liaison between the executives and other staff members. I also took the initiative to streamline the expense reporting process, which saved the company approximately 10 hours per week. I have a strong background in scheduling, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining confidentiality, which I believe are vital for an executive assistant.

2. How do you prioritize tasks when everything is a priority? (Time Management & Prioritization)

How to Answer:
Discuss your approach to prioritization and time management, possibly mentioning specific tools or techniques you use. You could also talk about how you balance urgent tasks with important ones and how you communicate with your executive to align on priorities.

My Answer:
When faced with multiple priorities, I first assess the urgency and impact of each task. I consider deadlines, the importance of the task to the company’s objectives, and the potential consequences of not completing the task on time. I also communicate with my executive to understand their priorities and ensure my task list aligns with their expectations. Here’s an approach I often use:

• Assess urgency: Identify which tasks have the nearest deadlines.
• Evaluate importance: Determine the tasks’ impact on the business or the executive.
• Delegate when possible: If there are tasks that can be delegated without sacrificing quality or confidentiality, I do so.
• Communicate transparently: Keep the executive informed about the status of tasks and any challenges that may affect prioritization.

3. Describe a time when you had to handle confidential information. (Confidentiality & Trust)

How to Answer:
Share a specific example that demonstrates your ability to handle sensitive information with discretion. Highlight the steps you took to maintain confidentiality and the outcome of your actions.

My Answer:
In my previous role, I was responsible for preparing the board meeting materials, which included sensitive financial data and strategic plans. To ensure confidentiality:

• Secured information: I used password-protected files and encrypted emails when sharing the documents.
• Limited access: Only individuals who needed the information for the meeting had access to it.
• Followed policies: I adhered strictly to the company’s confidentiality policies and guidelines.

The result was a successful board meeting where all sensitive information remained secure, and I received commendation from the CEO for my diligence in handling confidential matters.

4. What strategies do you use to manage your executive’s calendar effectively? (Organizational Skills)

How to Answer:
Discuss specific techniques or tools you use for calendar management. Explain how you ensure that your executive is prepared for meetings, prevent scheduling conflicts, and allocate time for critical work.

My Answer:
To manage my executive’s calendar effectively, I use a combination of digital tools and proactive communication. Here are some strategies I employ:

• Daily reviews: I start each day by reviewing the calendar to anticipate and prepare for the day’s events.
• Buffer time: I schedule buffer times before and after meetings to prevent overbooking and provide my executive with time to prepare and debrief.
• Regular updates: I keep my executive informed of any changes immediately and provide briefs for upcoming meetings.
• Strategic scheduling: I schedule high-priority work during my executive’s peak productivity times and avoid scheduling less critical meetings during these periods.

5. How do you ensure clear communication when dealing with multiple stakeholders? (Communication Skills)

How to Answer:
Explain your approach to communicating with various stakeholders, including how you tailor your communication style to different individuals and ensure that everyone is kept up-to-date.

My Answer:
Clear communication with multiple stakeholders involves being both proactive and responsive. Here’s how I ensure effective communication:

• Understand preferences: I learn each stakeholder’s preferred method and style of communication.
• Centralize information: I use a central platform where updates can be shared and accessed by all relevant parties.
• Regular updates: I provide regular and consistent updates to keep everyone informed.

For instance, I often use the following methods:

• Email for formal communication and documentation.
• Instant messaging for quick, informal updates or questions.
• Video or phone calls for more complex or sensitive discussions.

Here is an example of a communication tracking table I might use:

Stakeholder	Preferred Communication	Last Update	Next Scheduled Update
CEO	Email & Weekly Meeting	April 1	April 8
Department Head	Instant Messaging	April 3	As needed
Board Member	Formal Report & Email	March 30	April 15

This table helps me track when I last communicated with each stakeholder and when the next update is due, ensuring that no one is left out of the loop.

6. Can you tell us about a time when you had to coordinate a complex meeting or event? (Event Coordination)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to describe a specific situation where you coordinated a meeting or event, emphasizing the complexity, the steps you took, the challenges you faced, and the outcome. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is an effective way to structure your response.

My Answer:
Certainly. At my previous job, I was responsible for organizing the annual executive leadership retreat, which involved multiple stakeholders, including executives, key clients, and external vendors.

• Situation: The company was planning a three-day retreat in a remote location for 50 participants.
• Task: As the lead coordinator, my task was to manage the logistics, accommodations, schedules, and activities, ensuring everything aligned with the executive team’s expectations.
• Action: I created a detailed project plan, established a timeline, and delegated tasks to my team. Regular check-ins with vendors, venue managers, and my internal team were necessary to stay on track. I also set up contingency plans for potential issues like transportation strikes or bad weather.
• Result: The event was a success with positive feedback from all participants. The executives praised the seamless organization and the attention to detail, and it led to strengthened client relationships and successful team-building activities.

7. What tools or software are you familiar with for managing tasks and schedules? (Technical Skills)

How to Answer:
Discuss the specific tools and software you have used for task and schedule management. Mention how you used them effectively, any features you find particularly helpful, and how they have improved your productivity.

My Answer:
I am proficient in a variety of tools and software designed for managing tasks and schedules, including:

• Microsoft Outlook: For email, calendar management, and scheduling meetings.
• Google Workspace: Including Google Calendar for scheduling and Google Docs and Sheets for collaborative work.
• Asana: For project management and task tracking.
• Trello: For visualizing project tasks on a kanban board.
• Slack: For team communication and integration with other productivity tools.

These tools have been instrumental in keeping myself and the teams I support organized and productive. I find that features like calendar sharing, task dependencies, and reminder notifications are particularly useful for ensuring no detail or deadline is missed.

8. How do you handle unexpected changes or last-minute requests? (Adaptability)

How to Answer:
Show that you can remain calm and efficient under pressure. Describe a strategy or mindset that helps you deal with unpredictability, and provide an example of how you’ve successfully managed such a situation in the past.

My Answer:
I handle unexpected changes or last-minute requests by staying calm, reassessing priorities, and communicating clearly with all parties involved.

• Strategy: I prioritize flexibility in my daily planning to accommodate changes. I also maintain a proactive communication channel with executives to quickly adapt to their needs.

For instance, once an executive needed to change a major presentation to a client with only a few hours’ notice. I quickly gathered the necessary team members, delegated tasks to update the materials, and ensured the meeting room was reconfigured to fit the new format. The presentation was successful, and the executive commended the efficiency and composure with which the changes were handled.

9. What do you think are the key qualities of a successful executive assistant? (Understanding of Role)

How to Answer:
Identify and explain the qualities that are essential for an executive assistant based on experience and understanding of the role. Reflect on how these qualities help in day-to-day responsibilities and overall success in the position.

My Answer:
The key qualities of a successful executive assistant include:

• Organization: Keeping track of multiple tasks and priorities is essential.
• Communication: Clear and concise communication is crucial, both in written and verbal forms.
• Proactivity: Anticipating needs and taking initiative without waiting for direction.
• Confidentiality: Handling sensitive information with discretion and integrity.
• Adaptability: Being able to adjust quickly to changing circumstances and demands.
• Technical proficiency: Adept at using various productivity tools and software.

These qualities not only help manage the executive’s schedule and tasks efficiently but also contribute to the overall productivity and success of the organization.

10. How do you maintain discretion and diplomacy in a sensitive situation? (Diplomacy & Discretion)

How to Answer:
Discuss the importance of discretion and diplomacy in the role of an executive assistant. Share strategies for maintaining confidentiality and tactfulness, especially when dealing with sensitive information or situations.

My Answer:
Maintaining discretion and diplomacy in sensitive situations is paramount as an executive assistant. Here are some strategies I use:

• Active Listening: I listen carefully to understand the context and the concerns of all parties involved.
• Neutral Language: I use language that is neutral and non-confrontational.
• Confidentiality: I strictly adhere to privacy policies and never disclose sensitive information.
• Calm Demeanor: I remain composed even under stress, which helps to defuse tense situations.

For example, when an employee approached me with concerns about a rumored departmental restructure, I listened without confirming or denying the rumors. I assured the employee that their concerns were heard and would be relayed appropriately. I then communicated the concern to the executive in a private and confidential manner, ensuring that the employee’s identity and the information were protected.

11. Describe a project you managed from start to finish. (Project Management)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, be sure to discuss the key stages of project management: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closing. It’s critical to highlight your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to lead and communicate effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer.

My Answer:
In my previous role as an executive assistant, I managed the annual company retreat, which involved coordinating logistics for a three-day event for 150 employees.

• Situation: The goal was to create a memorable experience that fostered team-building and employee appreciation.
• Task: I was responsible for all aspects of the project, including venue selection, accommodation arrangements, transportation, scheduling activities, and budget management.
• Action: To ensure a successful event, I:
  • Identified suitable venues and negotiated contracts to get the best rates.
  • Created a detailed project plan with timelines and assigned responsibilities to team members.
  • Regularly communicated with all stakeholders, including the executive team, to update them on progress and get their input.
  • Monitored the budget closely to avoid overspending and ensured contingency plans were in place.
• Result: The retreat was a success with positive feedback from employees and executives. It was delivered on time and within budget, and it even included some last-minute changes that were seamlessly integrated into the event.

12. How do you deal with difficult or demanding personalities in a professional setting? (Interpersonal Skills)

How to Answer:
When discussing how you handle difficult personalities, emphasize your communication skills, patience, and ability to remain professional under pressure. Explain the strategies you employ to navigate challenging interactions and maintain positive working relationships.

My Answer:
I approach difficult or demanding personalities with patience, empathy, and clear communication. My strategy includes:

• Listening Actively: I make sure to listen to their concerns fully before responding, which often helps in understanding the root cause of their behavior.
• Staying Calm: I maintain a calm demeanor, which can help de-escalate tense situations.
• Setting Boundaries: I set clear boundaries respectfully if their demands are unreasonable or outside the scope of my role.
• Offering Solutions: I focus on collaboration and offer constructive solutions to address their concerns.
• Seeking Feedback: If the situation doesn’t improve, I seek feedback from my manager or HR to find ways to work together more effectively.

13. Can you give an example of a significant contribution you made to an executive team? (Contribution & Impact)

How to Answer:
Discuss a specific instance where you added value to an executive team. Emphasize how your actions or initiatives improved processes, saved time or money, or positively influenced the team’s performance or morale.

My Answer:
One significant contribution I made to an executive team was the implementation of a new digital filing system.

• Situation: The executive team was struggling with an outdated and inefficient paper-based filing system.
• Task: My goal was to transition to a digital system to streamline access to important documents and improve productivity.
• Action: I researched and selected a cloud-based document management system, developed a migration plan, and trained the team on how to use the new system efficiently.
• Result: The digital system saved the team countless hours that were previously spent on manual filing and retrieval. It also reduced the risk of document loss and improved remote access for all team members.

14. What motivates you to be an executive assistant? (Motivation & Drive)

How to Answer:
Reflect on what you find rewarding about the role of an executive assistant. Consider the variety of the job, the opportunity to support and enhance the effectiveness of executives, and the potential for career growth.

My Answer:
I am motivated to be an executive assistant because I thrive on the dynamic nature of the role and the opportunity to positively impact the productivity of the executive team. The key motivators for me include:

• Supporting Leadership: I take pride in contributing to the success of leaders and helping them achieve their goals.
• Problem-Solving: I enjoy the challenge of finding creative solutions to complex problems.
• Continuous Learning: The role allows me to continually develop new skills and expand my knowledge base.

15. How do you stay organized and ensure deadlines are met? (Organization & Time Management)

How to Answer:
Discuss the tools and techniques you use to stay organized and manage your time effectively. Be specific about how you prioritize tasks, handle multitasking, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

My Answer:
To stay organized and ensure deadlines are met, I use a combination of digital tools and proven time management techniques:

• Digital Tools:
  • I use a project management software to track all tasks and deadlines.
  • I keep a digital calendar up to date with all important dates and set reminders for upcoming deadlines.
• Time Management Techniques:
  • I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance using the Eisenhower Matrix.
  • I allocate specific time blocks for focused work on high-priority tasks to prevent last-minute rushes.

Here is a table illustrating the Eisenhower Matrix I use for task prioritization:

Urgent and Important	Important, Not Urgent	Urgent, Not Important	Neither Urgent Nor Important
Critical deadlines	Long-term planning	Some emails/calls	Time wasters
Crises	Relationship building	Some meetings	Excessive social media
Last-minute requests	Professional development	Interruptions	Trivial tasks

By combining these tools and techniques, I consistently meet deadlines and maintain high levels of organization in my work.

16. Can you discuss a time when you had to troubleshoot a problem on your own? (Problem-Solving Skills)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to demonstrate your problem-solving skills by detailing a specific instance in which you independently identified a problem and took steps to solve it. Your answer should include the context of the problem, the action you took, and the outcome. Remember to showcase your analytical abilities and your initiative to solve problems without immediate supervision.

My Answer:
Certainly! At my previous job, we encountered an issue where our regular vendor for office supplies suddenly went out of business. This left us without a crucial shipment of materials needed for a major client presentation. Without this, we risked looking unprepared and unprofessional.

I first assessed our immediate inventory and realized we lacked several items. Instead of panicking, I compiled a list of alternative local vendors and compared their prices and delivery times. I then negotiated a rush delivery with one of them, ensuring we would receive the necessary supplies in time.

The outcome was successful; we received the supplies before the presentation, and our team was able to deliver to the client without any issues. My quick thinking and proactive approach prevented what could have been a significant disruption.

17. What methods do you use to take effective meeting minutes? (Attention to Detail)

How to Answer:
Explain the systematic approach you use to ensure that meeting minutes are accurate and comprehensive. Your answer should demonstrate your attention to detail and your organizational skills. Make sure to mention how you prepare for meetings, your note-taking strategies, and how you finalize and distribute the minutes.

My Answer:
To take effective meeting minutes, I use the following methods:

• Preparation: Prior to the meeting, I review the agenda and familiarize myself with the topics to be discussed. If possible, I also speak with the meeting organizer to understand the key points that need to be captured.
• Active Listening: During the meeting, I focus on listening attentively while taking notes. I make sure to record decisions, action items, and any deadlines.
• Clarity and Brevity: I strive to keep the minutes clear and concise, avoiding verbatim transcription unless necessary for quotes or motions.
• Review and Clarify: Immediately after the meeting, I review my notes and clarify any points that are not clear while the discussions are still fresh in my mind.
• Formatting and Distribution: I format the minutes succinctly and distribute them to all attendees and relevant stakeholders in a timely manner for review and approval.

18. How do you manage your executive’s travel arrangements efficiently? (Travel Coordination)

How to Answer:
Discuss the steps and tools you use to ensure travel plans are well-coordinated and trouble-free. This can include your process for researching and booking travel, how you handle changes or emergencies, and the way you communicate travel plans to your executive.

My Answer:
I manage my executive’s travel arrangements efficiently by following a structured approach:

1. Gathering Preferences and Requirements:
   I first consult with my executive to understand their travel preferences, requirements, and any constraints such as timing or budget.

2. Research and Booking:
   I research flight options, hotels, and transportation using a mix of corporate-approved travel platforms and direct vendor sites to find the best combination of convenience, comfort, and cost.

3. Itinerary Management:
   I create a detailed itinerary that includes all bookings, meeting times, and locations. I use travel apps to consolidate all details in one place, which can be easily accessed by the executive.

4. Communication:
   I provide the executive with the itinerary, confirmations, and any necessary travel documents well in advance. I also ensure that they have access to digital copies through their smartphone or email.

5. Contingency Planning:
   I prepare for any potential travel disruptions by having backup plans and staying informed about any issues that could affect the travel schedule.

6. Support During Travel:
   While the executive is traveling, I remain accessible to assist with any changes or emergencies that may arise.

19. Can you discuss your experience with budget management? (Financial Acumen)

How to Answer:
Highlight your experience with managing budgets by detailing specific responsibilities you’ve had, such as tracking expenditures, drafting budget proposals, or identifying cost-saving opportunities. Illustrate your financial acumen by discussing how you’ve contributed to the efficient use of resources.

My Answer:
Yes, at my previous position, I was responsible for managing the department’s budget. My responsibilities included:

• Monitoring Expenditures: Keeping track of monthly spending and ensuring we stayed within budget.
• Reporting: Generating regular financial reports that detailed our spending patterns and highlighted any variances from the forecasted budget.
• Cost Control: Identifying areas where we could reduce costs without impacting productivity or quality.
• Budget Planning: Working closely with the department head during the annual budgeting process to project future costs and allocate funds accordingly.

Through rigorous tracking and cost control measures, we were able to reduce our department’s overhead by 10% in the first year, while still meeting all our operational goals.

20. How do you ensure that the executive’s time is used efficiently? (Efficiency & Productivity)

How to Answer:
Describe your approach to time management and scheduling for an executive. Focus on how you prioritize tasks, handle scheduling conflicts, and facilitate productivity.

My Answer:
Ensuring the executive’s time is used efficiently involves a combination of proactive planning and dynamic adjustment:

• Prioritization: I work with the executive to determine priorities, focusing on tasks that align with their strategic goals.
• Strategic Scheduling: I schedule meetings and tasks based on those priorities and leave space for critical thinking and unexpected issues.
• Conflict Resolution: When scheduling conflicts arise, I assess the importance and urgency of each commitment to make informed adjustments.
• Communication: I maintain clear and open lines of communication with the executive to stay updated on their needs and preferences.
• Time Blocks: I often use time-blocking techniques to allocate specific periods for deep work, ensuring that the executive has uninterrupted time for high-priority tasks.

By applying these strategies, I help the executive make the best use of their time, enabling them to focus on the decisions and actions that matter most.

21. Describe your experience with preparing reports and presentations. (Report & Presentation Preparation)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, provide specific examples of reports and presentations you’ve prepared. Highlight your proficiency in relevant software such as Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, or any other applications like Google Slides or Sheets. Show your understanding of the data or content that was included and the audience it was prepared for. If applicable, mention any positive feedback or results that came from your work.

My Answer:
In my previous roles, I’ve had extensive experience in preparing reports and presentations for a variety of purposes. I am proficient in using Microsoft Excel for data analysis and report generation, and I’m skilled in Microsoft PowerPoint for crafting engaging and informative presentations.

• Excel Reports: I’ve created monthly financial reports, highlighting key performance indicators and trends that were critical for executive decision-making. These included pivot tables and charts for easy data interpretation.
• PowerPoint Presentations: I’ve prepared presentations for board meetings, team updates, and external stakeholders. I ensured that these were visually appealing and communicated the desired message succinctly. I’ve often received commendations for the clarity and professionalism of these presentations.

22. How do you handle criticism or feedback from your executive? (Receptiveness to Feedback)

How to Answer:
This question is aimed at understanding your ability to receive and constructively use feedback. The best approach to answer this is by demonstrating your emotional intelligence and professional maturity. Talk about a specific situation where you received feedback, how you processed it, and the actions you took afterward.

My Answer:
I view criticism and feedback as opportunities to improve my performance and ensure better alignment with my executive’s expectations. When I receive feedback, I take the following steps:

• Acknowledge the feedback and thank the person for offering it.
• Process the information objectively, separating my feelings from the content of the feedback.
• Reflect on the feedback to understand the underlying issues or concerns.
• Develop an action plan to address the feedback and improve my work.
• Follow-up with the executive to discuss how I’ve implemented their feedback and seek any further guidance.

For instance, my previous executive pointed out that my email communication could be more concise. I took this feedback seriously, researched effective business communication, and adjusted my email style accordingly. As a result, my executive noted a significant improvement in my communication.

23. What approach do you take to personal and professional development? (Self-improvement & Learning)

How to Answer:
Employers look for candidates who are proactive about their growth. Discuss specific strategies or actions you take to continue learning and improving professionally. This could range from formal education to self-guided learning.

My Answer:
My approach to personal and professional development is ongoing and multifaceted. Here are some of the strategies I use:

• Formal Education: I pursue relevant courses and certifications that can enhance my skills.
• Self-Learning: I regularly read industry publications and books on management and efficiency.
• Networking: I attend webinars and conferences to stay updated on industry trends and build professional relationships.
• Feedback: I actively seek feedback from my peers and superiors to identify areas for improvement.
• Reflective Practice: I reflect on my daily experiences to draw lessons and improve my work approach proactively.

24. How do you balance the needs of the executive with those of the team or company? (Balance & Alignment)

How to Answer:
This question is about prioritization and alignment. Discuss how you assess the importance of tasks and align your actions with both the executive’s priorities and the company’s objectives.

My Answer:
Balancing the needs of the executive with those of the team or company is a critical part of the executive assistant role. I achieve this balance by:

• Understanding Priorities: Clarifying the executive’s top priorities and how they fit within the company’s goals.
• Communication: Maintaining open and frequent communication with both the executive and the team to ensure alignment.
• Time Management: Effectively managing my time and the executive’s schedule to accommodate important team and company-wide initiatives.
• Delegation: Utilizing delegation when appropriate to ensure the executive’s needs are met without neglecting broader company objectives.

25. What do you think sets you apart from other executive assistant candidates? (Unique Selling Proposition)

How to Answer:
Reflect on your unique skills, experiences, or perspective that make you an exceptional candidate for the executive assistant role. This could be a unique combination of skills, a particular accomplishment, or a specific approach you take in your work.

My Answer:

What sets me apart from other candidates is my combination of strong technical skills, exceptional organizational abilities, and a proven track record of driving efficiency within the executive suite. Here’s a breakdown:

Skill/Area	Details
Technical Expertise	Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM software, and project management tools.
Organizational Skills	Developed a new filing system that reduced document retrieval times by 30%.
Efficiency Improvements	Implemented a scheduling system that optimized the executive’s calendar, increasing their available time for strategic activities.

This unique blend of strengths has enabled me to not only support my executives effectively but also contribute to broader organizational improvements.

4. Tips for Preparation

Before you step into the interview room, it’s essential to have done extensive research on the company and the executive you’d potentially be assisting. Understand the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements to tailor your responses to align with their goals.

In terms of role-specific prep, polish your technical skills with relevant software (like MS Office, G Suite, or project management tools) and brush up on best practices for calendar management, travel arrangements, and confidential communication. Soft skills such as active listening, conflict resolution, and adaptability are equally important – consider how you’ve applied these in past roles and be ready to share examples.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, present yourself as the composed, resourceful professional they need. Make eye contact, engage with the interviewer’s questions, and showcase your problem-solving abilities through clear, concise anecdotes. Interviewers are looking for evidence of your organizational skills, discretion, and ability to anticipate needs.

Avoid common mistakes such as speaking negatively about past employers or failing to provide specific examples when answering questions. It’s also smart to have a few insightful questions prepared to ask the interviewer, showing your interest in the role and the organization.

After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. This is not only polite but also keeps you top-of-mind. As for feedback, companies often provide a timeline at the end of the interview, but if not, it’s reasonable to follow up within a week or two to inquire about next steps.