6. Think on your Feet and Control of the Narrative

Performing well in interviews involves being able to think on your feet and own the narrative.  There are many ways that you can take control over what uncertain situations and flip the switch.  Learn these great techniques and supercharge your interview game.

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Transcript

How to Think on Your Feet and Take Control of the Narrative

Whether it’s a last-minute interview or a curveball question you didn’t see coming, your ability to think on your feet can make or break your chances of success in a job interview. Employers today aren’t just hiring for experience—they're looking for poise, presence, and problem-solving under pressure. If you want to stand out, you have to do more than answer questions. You have to take control of the narrative.  Remember that interviews aren’t just about answering their questions, it’s also about asking your questions and making sure this is a good fit for you.

Here’s how to confidently navigate the unexpected questions and come across confidently.

1. Shift Your Mindset: You're Not Just Answering—You're Framing
Too many candidates fall into a defensive mode during interviews, trying to get it exactly right. But interviews are not tests—they’re conversations. Thinking on your feet means knowing that you’re not just reacting to questions. You’re using them to highlight your strengths, values, and relevance.

Reframe each question as an opportunity to steer the conversation. Ask yourself silently, “What do they really want to know?” and “What do I want them to remember about me?”

2. When You Don’t Know the Answer, Buy Time and Redirect
You will get unexpected questions. That’s a guarantee. Great candidates don’t panic—they pivot.

Here’s a 3-step strategy to handle unexpected questions:

a. Pause with purpose:
Use a phrase like:

“That’s a great question—let me take a second to think about it.”

This shows composure, not hesitation.

b. Redirect to a related strength:
If the question isn’t in your wheelhouse, link it to something you do know:

“While I haven’t worked directly with X, I’ve handled similar challenges in Y…”

c. Tell a story:
Stories are your best defense. Use a real example to demonstrate how you handle ambiguity, learn quickly, or problem-solve on the fly.

3. Own Your Narrative With a Personal Brand Anchor
Thinking on your feet becomes easier when you’ve clearly defined who you are and what you bring. Before the interview, develop a personal brand anchor—a clear sentence or two that communicates your unique value.

For example:

“I’m someone who brings clarity to complexity. Whether it’s managing cross-functional teams or rethinking outdated processes, I’m always focused on building momentum and delivering results.”

This gives you something to come back to, no matter the question. It keeps your message consistent and helps you regain control when things go off track.

4. Turn the Tables: Ask Sharp, Strategic Questions
One of the most underrated ways to control the narrative is for you to ask good questions.

When you ask insightful, employer-focused questions, you shift the dynamic. You’re no longer just a candidate—you’re a potential partner.

Here are a few examples:

• “What does success in this role look like 90 days in?”
  
  
  
• “What are the top challenges facing this team right now?”
  
  
  
• “How do you see this role evolving as the company grows?”

These questions do two things:

1. They show that you’re thinking beyond the job description.
   
   
   
2. They give you valuable information to tailor your closing pitch.
   
   
   

5. Always Close Strong: Reinforce Your Fit
No matter how the interview goes, end on a high note. Use your final moment to reinforce your value and express enthusiasm. For example:

“Based on everything you’ve shared, I’m even more excited about this opportunity. I know I can bring X, Y, and Z to the table, and I’d love the chance to contribute to the team.”

This kind of confident closing puts the spotlight right where it should be—on the value you bring.

Remember, you don’t need to have every answer ready. What matters more is your approach. Thinking on your feet isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying calm, owning your story, and keeping the conversation focused on your strengths.

So next time you’re in the hot seat, don’t just survive the interview—steer it.

You’ve got this.