Public Finance Blog

Two minutes to get your point across after being asked a question…GO! 

Am I saying that you only have two minutes to talk?  No, but I am saying that pausing and asking for a response every two minutes is key in an interview.

When you are asked a question in an interview, which is what interviews are about, an answer is always expected. Hopefully, that is obvious!  However, the type of answer is what I’m discussing in this tip.  The rules for answering are shared below:  

1. Never answer a question with a closed-in answer, one that requires a yes or a no.  The purpose of the question is for your interviewer to get to know you.  Again obvious, so a closed-in answer defeats that purpose immediately.  It shows that you are really closed off.

2. If you’re not answering with a closed response, then the correct response is an open one.  Here’s where trouble can appear.  When asked an open-ended question, many people will just ramble; thus, the two-minute rule.  Answer the question you believe you’re being asked for no more than two minutes, then seek confirmation as to what the interviewer was looking for.  Similar statements to the following, “I trust this was the response that you were expecting.” Or something like, “I just want to ensure I was going in the right direction before I go on with my answer if you’re not done.”

3. Lastly, always give an example when asked an open-ended question.  For example, if the question has to do with revenue bonds and your experience with them, don’t hesitate to share about the last revenue bond you underwrote.  This increases rapport, understanding, and relevant experience.  In essence, the hat trick of interview response. 

Conclusion

You don’t need a resume to chat with us! If you would like to discuss your options, please reach out for a confidential conversation at 760-477-1284 or email at harlan@hfriedmansearch.com. He can also be reached on LinkedIn. Harlan publishes a blog every Thursday here. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter here, which is a compilation of our weekly blogs, so you never miss one. We have also been mentioned in this year’s Forbes, click HERE to read more.  

About Harlan Friedman, JD & Founding Member, H. Friedman Search LLC. Harlan is a thirty-year veteran Public Finance Banker turned recruiter who specializes in the placement of all levels Public Finance Bankers, Healthcare Bankers, Municipal Advisors, Compliance Officers, Issuers, and Bond Counsels.