Interviewing 30+ Board Members and C-Suite Executives Before 30 - Aarushi Kapoor
Ever been asked, “What do you do?” and struggled to find the perfect one-liner? I recently found the best way to encapsulate my work: “I’ve interviewed over 30 board members and C-suite executives before hitting 30.” Now obviously my job isn’t just interviewing clients, but this is a hook-line that opens the door to a plethora of responsibilities within my role.
It all began with an internship, as many career stories do. Fresh out of college, I embarked on my professional journey, eager to learn and make a mark. Little did I know that this internship would pave the way for an exciting career trajectory.
Transitioning from an intern to a full-time role at Signitt, under the expert mentorship of Anouk Pappers and Maarten Schafer, was a game-changer. At Signitt, our mission revolves around empowering women and minorities to articulate their personal brand and seize control of their online presence to achieve their next professional goal. Our approach? Crafting personalized brands, curating compelling content, and refining their narratives to resonate with their target audience.
Now, let’s talk about the real highlight: interviewing over 30 high-profile executives before turning 30. It has been, and continues to be a masterclass in leadership, strategy, and the art of storytelling. Here are some of my key learnings:
- Authenticity Reigns Supreme: No matter the title or the accolades, authenticity remains the cornerstone of effective leadership. The most compelling stories came from leaders who embraced their vulnerabilities and shared their journeys unabashedly.
- Embrace Failure as Fuel: Behind every success story lies a string of failures. The C-suite isn’t immune to setbacks, but what sets remarkable leaders apart is their resilience. They don’t just bounce back; they harness their failures as invaluable lessons that propel them forward.
- Purpose-Driven Leadership: Beyond profits and power, impactful leadership is rooted in a sense of purpose. The most inspiring executives were driven by a higher cause, whether it was fostering diversity, sustainability, or social responsibility.
- The Power of Personal Branding: In today’s digital age, your personal brand precedes you. Crafting a compelling narrative isn’t just reserved for corporations; individuals need to articulate their unique value proposition to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
- Never Stop Learning: Regardless of age or experience, the best leaders are perpetual students. They approach each day with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to adapt to an ever-evolving landscape.
As I reflect on my journey so far, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have come my way and the invaluable lessons I’ve learned along the path. But this is just the beginning. The future holds endless possibilities, and I’m eager to dive headfirst into what comes next with Signitt.
I’m excited to continue learning, honing my skills, and expanding my knowledge base. Every interaction, every interview, is an opportunity to glean insights and grow personally and professionally.
Moreover, I look forward to further building our client network at Signitt, empowering more individuals — especially women and minorities — to own their narratives, amplify their voices, and achieve their goals. Together, we’ll redefine what success looks like and shatter any glass ceilings in our way.
So here’s to the future — brimming with promise, potential, and endless opportunities. I’m ready to embrace it with open arms, armed with the wisdom gained from interviewing over 30 board members and C-suite executives before the age of 30.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
