Interview, Interview, Interview!
I always tell my mentees two things: keep your resume up to date and, most importantly, interview! I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, and I’ve seen countless professionals regret neglecting it. While I could spend an entire discussion on the value of maintaining a resume—not just as a job-seeking tool but as a powerful reflection exercise—today, I want to focus on the latter.
Interviewing is not just for those seeking a new job. It is a skill, a practice, and an opportunity for growth that every professional, no matter how secure or content they feel, should embrace. I remember a time when I thought I had landed my dream role, convinced I would never need to interview again. But when unexpected changes came—leadership shifts, team restructures—I realized I had let my ability to confidently present myself slip. The first interview I took after years of stagnation was a disaster. I fumbled my answers, struggled to clearly articulate my achievements, and left the conversation feeling like a version of myself from five years earlier.
That experience changed my perspective. From that point forward, I made a commitment to treat interviewing as an ongoing professional exercise, not just an emergency tool. And now, I make sure every mentee of mine understands its value, too. Regular interviews keep you sharp, push you to reflect on your journey, and force you to articulate who you are and what you bring to the table. Even if you never accept a new job, the process itself strengthens your professional confidence and adaptability.
Why Interview When Life is Good?
A common response I get when I suggest this practice is, "But why? I love my job. I'm in the best position I've ever been. I have no intention of leaving." That’s great! But here’s the reality: the only constant in life is change. Companies evolve. Leadership shifts. Economic conditions fluctuate. What is perfect today may not be tomorrow, and if you’ve never kept your interviewing muscles sharp, you might find yourself at a disadvantage when change inevitably comes.
However, even if your job remains stable and fulfilling, interviewing is an essential exercise in professional development. It enhances your ability to articulate your value, strengthens your executive presence, and forces you to reflect on your career trajectory in ways that day-to-day work does not.
Mastering the Art of the Interview
For those aiming for senior positions—director level and beyond—executive presence is a critical skill. Interviewing regularly allows you to refine how you present your achievements, ensuring they resonate with individuals outside your immediate field. The ability to craft a compelling narrative about your successes, failures, and lessons learned is what separates good leaders from great ones.
Think about common interview questions: What is your greatest accomplishment from the past year? What major opportunity did you miss? What challenges did you overcome? These aren’t just inquiries from a hiring committee; they are prompts that encourage introspection. When you answer them in an interview, you do so with an external audience in mind, forcing you to communicate clearly and concisely. This practice strengthens your ability to present your thoughts in any high-stakes conversation, whether it’s with executives, board members, or even your personal network.
Interviews as a Networking and Learning Tool
Another overlooked benefit of interviewing is its power to expand your network. Even if you aren’t looking for a job, each conversation introduces you to new people, new perspectives, and new opportunities. The simple act of discussing industry challenges and sharing your insights can lead to valuable professional relationships, mentorship opportunities, and even unforeseen career advancements.
Additionally, interviewing keeps you informed about industry trends. You gain firsthand knowledge of what companies are prioritizing, what skills are in demand, and how your experience aligns with evolving market needs. This awareness ensures that you remain competitive and prepared, whether or not you plan on making a move.
Free Executive Training
Many professionals view interviews as a necessary evil—a hurdle to securing a new job. But what if you shifted your mindset? What if you saw interviews as free, real-world executive training? Each conversation is a chance to refine your storytelling, strengthen your persuasive skills, and gain clarity about your career goals. The ability to confidently and convincingly communicate your value is not just useful in job interviews; it’s a crucial skill in leadership, negotiations, and even personal interactions.
At its core, an interview is about problem-solving. The company presents a challenge, and you articulate why you are the best person to solve it. If you master this skill, you’re not just improving your ability to land a job; you’re improving your ability to lead, influence, and drive results in any professional or personal situation.
Interview, Interview, Interview!
So, even if you are completely satisfied with your job, don’t neglect this essential practice. Interviewing sharpens your executive presence, refines your ability to present your achievements, expands your network, and keeps you prepared for any unexpected changes. More importantly, it forces you to think critically about your career trajectory and continuously evolve as a leader.
So my advice? Interview, interview, interview!
“Thanks for reading! Your journey to the top starts with small steps. Keep learning.”