We've all been there. Everything is going smoothly on your interview.
You have the room leaning in, nodding. You're showcasing the research you've done on their business. Plus, they even laughed at your jokes!
And then you get hit with a question and have absolutely no idea how to respond.
*blank*
What the heck do you next?
Stay calm. Take a breath. And follow Yi Lin Pei's five steps
1. Acknowledge the question. For example, βThatβs a great question, do you mind if I take a minute to think about it?β
2. Think out loud. Demonstrate your thought process by thinking out loud help show how you process information.
3. Ask clarifying questions. This is an opportunity for you to get more insights and clues that could lead to another idea.
4. Provide an alternative example. If you still can't come up with anything, then try to redirect and provide an alternative example you are familiar with and ask permission to share.
5. Be honest and move on. No one knows everything. Admitting you donβt know shows your honesty.