What happened
In a public Reddit post, the candidate described an hour-long video interview with three interviewers. They faced questions about an unhappy client, an unpopular process change and competing deadlines. When they couldn't answer one question, they asked how the team approached it. An interviewer responded positively, the candidate reported.
The candidate later said they didn't get the job, although the hiring manager described the decision as close. We don't know the unanswered question or how that moment affected the outcome.
What to say if your mind goes blank
Take a moment to think. If you haven't faced the exact situation, offer a related example and explain the difference. Make clear what you did and what someone else did.
For example, you might say:
I haven't led that conversation with a client, but I helped my manager prepare for one when a delivery date changed. I gathered the facts and checked the options; my manager spoke to the client. I learned to bring a clear alternative, not just the problem.
Use an experience of your own, and ask a genuine follow-up if it helps you understand the role.
Prepare for next time
Choose a few real experiences involving teamwork, a setback and a decision. For each, note your responsibility, what you did and what happened. Practice explaining why you made your choices, so you can handle follow-up questions without memorizing a script.
Source and methodology
This story is adapted from a public first-person post and has not been independently verified. Candidate's Reddit account.
Keep preparing
Explore related guides or use a real job description to build your own practice plan.
- How to answer ‘Tell me about a time you failed’ as a student
- Questions to ask an interviewer when you're starting your career
- How to turn a university project into a STAR interview answer
- A practical guide to behavioral interviews
For more interview preparation advice, see Boston College's interviewing resources and VCU Career Services' common interview questions.