How should I get ready for an informal interview with the CFO and the Director of Finance/IR?

Preparing for an informal interview with the CFO and Director of Finance/Investor Relations requires a balance of professionalism and approachability. Here’s how you should get ready:
Research the Company: Understand the company’s mission, vision, values, recent financial performance, market position, and industry trends. Familiarize yourself with its key products or services, competitors, and any recent news or developments affecting the company.
Understand the Roles: Get a good grasp of the responsibilities and priorities of the CFO and Director of Finance/IR. This will help you tailor your questions and responses to align with their focus areas and demonstrate your interest in what they find important.
review financial statements: Analyze the company’s recent financial statements. Look for trends in revenue, profitability, expenses, and cash flow. Be prepared to discuss these elements and their implications for the company’s strategy and performance.
Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Develop insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the company and its financial landscape. Consider inquiring about financial strategy, challenges they foresee, or recent financial decisions.
Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to discuss your background, skills, and how they align with the company’s needs. Highlight any experience or achievements relevant to finance and investment relations.
Soft Skills and Fit: Reflect on your interpersonal and communication skills, as these are crucial in an informal setting. Be prepared to showcase how your personality and work style would be a good cultural fit for the team.
Review Current Events: Be aware of broader economic and financial market conditions as well as any regulatory changes that could impact the company or industry, to demonstrate your understanding of external factors affecting the business.
Polish Your Materials: Prepare an updated resume or portfolio that highlights your relevant experience and successes, making sure it’s concise and effective for a verbal or informal reference.

By preparing in these ways, you’ll be able to engage meaningfully and leave a positive impression during your informal interview.