Tara Houle

Be authentic and professional - you can tell a story where you take ownership and maybe it wasn't easy for you due to multiple variables but focus on your actions in the situation; not what you didn't like about the situation and the negative thoughts you had while pushing through the obstacle - your actions and how you handled it in your explanation is displaying emotional intelligence for the receiving ends experience with you.

The feedback loop is imperative and must be done in a productive way. Don't hover over someone when you delegate tasks to them, make sure you explain the task and set them up for success by answering any questions they have. People learn from mistakes and feel empowered so it's ok if they don't do everything perfect - I'm sure you didn't at first either ;)

Always seek to understand - don't listen to speak because you are not actually listening. Often the issue in a conflict is not understood fully by one or both sides. This can lead to unnecessary conflict and ruin your brand or relationship with the other side. Once you understand and have asked questions, you are able to form your responses so the other side understands you as well - also, be open to trying new ideas or be ready to explain why it won't be the direction you are going or should go - depending on your role within the conflict and the decision maker.

Being able to tell a intriguing and relatable story while being able to highlight your skill set and success in the subject of your story is always the best way to paint the picture and show your interest and excitement as it clearly stands out to you so it will to the interviewers. Make sure to again, always tell the whole story - if the project is complex - there were obstacles - it's ok - tell them how you/your team overcame them! No one is perfect.

Knowing the subject and having thorough knowledge to showcase is amazing but being able to be humble and ask questions (because there are always unanswered questions); shows you will add value to the team and care that the work is done with the company's enthusiasm matching yours; not just one sided. It also shows your ability to take feedback and work in a team while showing how excited you are! Remember you don't have to know all of the answers to be an expert - there is always more to learn :)

Clear communication is key here and likely what was lacking as to why it went sideways. On the initial call or when you discuss salary make sure if you give a range, you are clear with the recruiter what works and what doesn’t. Don’t hope they will give you more or go way above the pay without discussing that the range doesn’t work for you. If the recruiter is communicating clearly as well, they should be open with you before moving you to the next step in the interview process.