Interviewing is all storytelling
Interview prep season is here. Five things that actually help product leaders tell stories that feel true and energizing.
"Tell me a story." I say this a lot, but it goes on repeat come November and December. Welcome to interview prep season. If you're among the many product leaders starting to seriously consider your next role, this post is for you.
Interviewing is bizarre. It's an artificial ritual we only do every 2-5 years, so no wonder we're bad at it. I coach incredible execs who can paint a product vision to a hundred-person team, and yet "How much did you grow revenue?" can reduce them to the charisma of Alexa reciting a P&L.
Interviewing is all storytelling, and I love reminding my clients of this. When they bring that muscle, the one they use every week at work, the conversation comes alive.
But interview storytelling is different. Suddenly we're the hero instead of praising the team. We're digging back through fuzzy memories instead of selling a future. And the past is never clean-cut enough to fit into a 90-second answer.
This is why even strong storytellers shouldn't wing it. A little prep goes a long way, whether for a coffee chat or final round with the CEO. Here's what actually helps:
1. Every single question is a story prompt
Even "How much did you scale the team?" is code for "Show me how you lead."
2. Your resume is there to intrigue, not land the offer
Most resumes say too much and still end up vague. Cherry-pick specific details that map to the job's core demands.
3. Talk about flaws with ease
Practice talking about mistakes in a grounded way: finding some gratitude that they happened, focusing on the lessons you learned.
4. We rarely hear our own greatness
Tell your stories to a friend (or coach) who understands your role. They'll spot the gems that you take for granted.
5. Follow the STAR format
A simple formula that keeps your story crisp and focused. Don't overthink it. Just use it.
Most of us prefer a good conversation over a pass-or-fail quiz. Interviews aren't any different. When we bring stories that feel true and energizing to tell, that's when any exchange becomes more engaging, more us. And who wouldn't want to keep talking to someone who brings that kind of spark?
This post originally appeared on LinkedIn.