In my 25 years of recruiting, I’ve heard thousands of candidates recount their interview experiences. One thing never changes: the most successful candidates aren’t just experts in their field—they are expert storytellers.

I don’t mean “once upon a time” tales about your favorite vacation. I’m talking about high-impact, professional stories that relate directly to your career accomplishments.

Why the “Situational Question” is Your Secret Weapon

Hiring managers love to ask: “Tell me about a time when…” Most candidates dread these “situational” questions because they feel like a trap. In reality, they are an open door. They give you the floor to highlight your skills through a narrative rather than a list of bullet points.

The 60-Second Rule

My number one piece of coaching advice is this: When asked about your skills, don’t just explain—show. Try to share a 60-second story that highlights your knowledge, your process, and your results.

A lot can happen in a minute. To make it count, your story needs a clear Beginning, Middle, and End.

See the Difference: Data vs. Narrative

Imagine a Sales candidate is asked about their recent performance.

  • The “Standard” Answer: “I sold $1M in projects last year.” (This is a fact, but it’s forgettable.)
  • The “60-Second Story” Answer: “Last year, I realized our outreach was hitting a plateau. I built a strategic program using XYZ Software to target facilities over 100,000 square feet that fit our ideal profile. By executing a targeted phone and email campaign, I secured 10 new enterprise clients and closed $1M in new business.”

The second answer doesn’t just give a number; it gives a blueprint of how you work.

Preparation is the Key

This approach works for everyone—field technicians, engineers, project managers, and executives. The key is to have 3–4 stories ready to go before you walk into the room.

Your Story Checklist:

  1. Keep it under 60 seconds. (Keep it tight and punchy).
  2. Highlight the “How.” (What tools or strategy did you use?)
  3. End with a Win. (Use a tangible or measurable result).

Next time you’re preparing for an interview, don’t just study your resume—rehearse your stories. It’s the fastest way to stand out from the crowd and prove you’re the right person for the job.

Good luck and enjoy the process!