Storytelling about your life experiences may be an effective tool, but must be used judiciously. When you decide to share information about a particular event or situation, do so very intentionally. It is ideal if you already have some examples mentally prepared.

Such stories ought to be relevant. They need to directly apply to the question being asked, and not just remind of the question. They need to have happened to you – and be honest. Rewriting the story to make yourself the superhero lacks integrity and may well be discovered.

Keep the length of the story to no more than two or three minutes. Any longer, and you’ll be wasting valuable time (and the interviewer may decide you aren’t careful with time management skills).

Above all, keep your objective in mind as you speak. Is your goal to make yourself sound brilliant and your last boss like a clueless dictator? Such ploys often backfire. Decide how you want to come across, and relate only stories that convey those messages.

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