Strategic communication isn't just about what you say. It's about how you align your message with your purpose, connecting the dots between who you are and impact you want to make.

The Insight Hub: Mastering the Art of Interviewing with Strategic Communication: Insights from "Think Fast, Talk Smart"

Starter

I recently listened to a fantastic podcast episode of “Think Fast, Talk Smart,” hosted by Matt Abrahams, and it struck a chord with my own journey transitioning from bedside nursing to the business world. The episode, titled “Get Hired: How The Right Communication Techniques Can Advance Your Career,” dives into practical ways to communicate effectively during interviews, and I couldn’t wait to share some valuable takeaways that could help anyone navigating career transitions.

Main Course

One of the standout strategies discussed in the episode is Matt’s "ADD technique" for answering interview questions:

• Answer: Address the question directly.

• Detail: Provide supporting details that back up your answer.

• Describe: Explain why your answer is relevant to the role you're applying for.

This framework is simple, but its impact can be profound. I’ve found that many individuals, particularly students and healthcare professionals, often face the same challenge when prepping for interviews: How do I communicate my skills in a way that resonates with potential employers?

I’ve been there. Shifting from a nursing role to the business realm, I had to learn how to present my experience in a way that stood out. Despite having four years of critical care experience and an MBA, I faced countless rejections early on. Why? Because I was listing my experiences, hoping the hiring teams would piece together the relevance of my skills.

It wasn’t until I changed my approach and used storytelling that I started to get noticed. Instead of just listing my responsibilities, I began to tie my skills as an ICU nurse (handling high-pressure, life-or-death situations) to the demands of project management and business strategy. The moment I made those connections clear, interview opportunities started flowing in.

This experience reinforced something critical: Strategic communication is key, whether you’re advancing within your current field, transitioning to a new industry, or reentering the workforce after a break.

Digest

So, how can you apply these insights to your career? Start by framing your unique experiences and skills using Matt’s ADD technique. It’s a powerful way to not only showcase what you’ve done but also how it’s relevant to the role you’re applying for. Hiring teams want to see how you fit into their organization, and it’s your job to make those connections clear.

If you're gearing up for an interview or considering a career pivot, I highly recommend giving this episode a listen. Learning how to communicate strategically could be the game-changer you need.

Podcast Reference:
“Think Fast, Talk Smart”
Episode 151: "Get Hired: How The Right Communication Techniques Can Advance Your Career"
Hosted by Matt Abrahams with guest Andrew Seaman

The Insight Toolbox:

Here is a quick checklist to get you master strategic communication for your next interview!

• Understand the Job Requirements

• Apply the ADD Technique in Your Responses

• Craft a Narrative Around Your Experience

• Prepare STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) Stories

• Practice Your Answers Aloud

• Connect Your Past Experience to the Future Role

• Research the Company and Role Thoroughly

• Ask Thoughtful Questions at the End of the Interview

• Follow up with a Personalized Thank-You Email

• Reflect on Your Performance

About The Author

Patrick Miley Jr. is a business and career coach with a passion for helping individuals navigate career transitions and unlock their full potential. With a diverse background in both healthcare and business, Patrick leverages his unique experience as an ICU nurse and his MBA in Organizational Management to empower solopreneurs, minority business owners, and healthcare professionals to thrive in competitive industries. He is the founder of Insight 2 Action, where he provides strategic coaching and marketing consulting services. Patrick is dedicated to teaching the art of strategic communication—a skill that has transformed his own career.

When he’s not coaching, Patrick enjoys paddleboarding, running half marathons, and leading discussions in the Knox Book Club. You can connect with him on LinkedIn or through his company, Insight 2 Action.