I secretly recorded my client's job interview. Here’s the big lessons I learnt that can help you in your next interview.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “If only walls could talk.” Well, this time, it was the interview walls that did the talking!

One of my clients has been struggling to get an offer after final-stage interviews. He’s been to tons of final stages, but has not been able to get it across the line. 

So, we decided to get a little creative. We secretly recorded one of his interviews so I could be a fly on the wall and really see what was going wrong.

What I discovered was eye-opening. 

And today I’m sharing three big lessons from that interview that can help you too if you’re in the middle of an interview process right now.

1. Slow Down - You’re Speaking Too Fast!

This is a big one. Most people, when nervous, tend to speak too fast. My client was speaking at such a rapid pace that I was struggling to keep up as a listener, so you can imagine how the interviewer might have felt.

Speaking too quickly not only makes you harder to understand, but it can also make you come across as less confident or composed - even if that’s not how you feel inside.

So, next time you’re in an interview, remember: slow down. It will help you sound more thoughtful and in control, and the interviewer will be able to process all the points you are making.

2. Speak with Structure

Structure, structure, structure. It’s so important. 

My client had the best intentions, but his answers were all over the place. He would start one point, then jump to another without completing the thought, leaving me - and likely the interviewer - confused.

You absolutely need structure in your answers. Otherwise, your message can get lost, and you won’t make the impact you want.

Try to outline your responses before diving in. Whether it’s a simple “point A, point B, point C” or breaking it down into clear segments, make sure your answers follow a logical progression so the interviewer can easily follow along.

3. Use ‘Signposts’ to Guide the Conversation

One of the easiest ways to create structure in your answers is by using what I call "signposts." 

Signposts are phrases that guide the interviewer through your response, so they know where you’re heading next.

For example, if they ask you to "tell me about your career," give them a brief overview and then ask, “Would you like me to dive deeper into a particular area of my experience?” This not only shows you can manage the conversation, but it also invites the interviewer to guide the direction of the interview.

And if you ever feel yourself rambling, hit pause and ask, “Would you like me to elaborate on that?” 

Or if you want to land more than one point, tell them in advance - “I have two points on this and they both illustrate different things. Here’s the first…”

Signposting makes sure that your interview doesn’t turn into a monologue and keeps the flow organized.

Give it a go! 

Interviewing isn’t easy. It really does take a lot of practice. But these 3 things are by far some of the most crucial - and most importantly - easy to learn. 

Good luck with your interviews! And remember, the little things make all the difference.

If you want to level up your interview game and secure your next perfect role, the Creative Career Level Up might be the right solution for you.