You have already done much of the hard work in preparation for the interview. You have honed your key messages to a sharpness that will, you are convinced, win over the audience and leave them with a rosy view of you, your work and your company.
And then the interview begins…
Surprise, surprise, the interviewer does not invite you to list your key messages. In fact the questions start heading into uncharted territory, something you had not bargained for.
But not to worry, those key messages are still there at the front of your mind, on the tip of your tongue. And there is still time left…
Then, suddenly, the interviewer is winding up. “Thanks for that. Time now to catch up with the traffic news…”
It happens all too often.
Remember, the earlier you can introduce at least a couple of your key messages, the better. In fact, the very first reply of the interview offers perhaps the best chance. You must of course answer the opening question, but it is still possible to use that first reply to promote a key message – “Just before I answer that, it’s worth reminding your listeners…”
Like a football team who are 2 – nil down, the sooner you can take control, the better your chance of scoring.
Leave a Reply