Interview tip #1: Brain Blank to Wow! Ace Your Interview with the ‘Trio Technique’
Let’s look at the interview question:
Can you tell me your greatest/ significant achievement?
My mind goes in two modes here : either there would be an endless scroll of the ideas and life images popping across, as the brain starts to mark them in-significant & un-great one by one or there would be just a blank page, not one accomplishment coming to mind — wondering if even wearing a clean shirt qualifies as an achievement!
Well my friends, we have all been there — if not with this, then some other interview question. Here are some ways I have leant to turn that blank page into a shining example of your potential:
Show, don’t tell. But professionally.
Focus on relevant professional narratives, steering clear of anecdotes about orchestrating/ collaborating wedding logistics or perfecting/systemising/spearheading the 4 am morning routines.
You wouldn’t believe how many candidates talk about their personal lives as if the interviewer is their favourite aunt.
If aiming for a sales position, recount a tale of persuading a challenging client, sealing deals in a faltering industry, or leveraging data to captivate clients. If eyeing a managerial role, spotlight projects where you excelled amid constraints, provided direction in ambiguity, and more.
Tailor the example to the role and confidently use the word ‘I’ when talking about your achievements.
P.S. I collaborated with the planning team — is better than to say ‘we ideated’, ‘idea wasn’t mine, but the execution was all me (wide eyed)’.
Why this question is a gift?
This question is definitely not asked for you to boast (yes, seriously). Interviewers aren’t asking for a self-love parade. They’re short on time, big on questions, and want to see your skills, how you adapt, and if you’re a good fit.
Employ the STAR method: why the situation was difficult, why was the task needed, collaboration in the action and finally, the quantifiable impact (saved time, boosted profits, you get the picture).
Leverage the power of 3 : the TRIO TECHNIQUE
This principle is known as the “Goldilocks principle“- that captivating bedtime story with the three bears, where having three options is often seen as “just right.”
With three choices, you would have enough variety, but not so many options that it becomes overwhelming.
Think of three ways your achievement mattered: saved money, saved time, built the company’s rep, etc.
The power of three isn’t just limited to highlighting the significance of your achievement. Weave them in using phrases like “three-pronged attack,” “nailed it in three steps,” or “high-fived three departments on this one.” for your next interview.
Boom! Blank page gone, compelling story born.
