The Holy Grail of Interview Excellence: A Former Google Exec's Strategy

In the competitive world of job interviews, standing out from the crowd is essential. According to a former Google executive, there is a strategy that can help you achieve interview excellence: taking the time to outline your answer before responding. This approach, which the executive describes as "the holy grail of interview excellence," can help you demonstrate leadership abilities, showcase your problem-solving skills, and make a strong impression on potential employers.



By taking a moment to think about your answer and outline your thoughts, you can separate the important from the unimportant, showing that you are able to think strategically and prioritize information. This behavior also demonstrates that you are comfortable with ambiguity and can handle big questions, which are valuable skills in a leadership role. Additionally, breaking down your answer into clear, concise points makes it easier for the interviewer to take notes and understand your response, highlighting your strong communication skills.

In an interview, you may encounter hypothetical questions that test your problem-solving skills and adaptability. These questions are designed to assess your ability to think critically and logically, adapt to ambiguity and uncertainty, and think creatively and innovatively. By observing how you approach these questions, interviewers can evaluate your communication skills and determine if you would be a good fit for the team and company culture.

When faced with a hypothetical question, take a moment to outline your answer before responding. This will help you structure your thoughts, identify key factors, and develop a clear and concise solution. By demonstrating your ability to think through complex issues, adapt to new situations, and communicate effectively, you can showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability, contributing to a more informed hiring decision.

In conclusion, taking the time to outline your answer before responding in an interview can help you demonstrate leadership abilities, highlight your problem-solving skills, and make a strong impression on potential employers. By following this strategy, you can enhance your chances of success in the interview process and achieve interview excellence.