Tell Your Story, Not Just Your CV

At some stage in your career, you’ll likely apply for a role that’s particularly important.

I recently spent time with someone preparing for just that kind of opportunity. Rather than simply listing their roles and responsibilities, we focused on the value they’ve brought to each organisation - framing their experience in a way that aligns with the role they’re now hoping to secure.

Instead of a typical chronological walkthrough, we explored how their contributions - whether commercial outcomes, cultural improvements or operational changes - could be shared in a way that connects meaningfully with what this next opportunity requires.

We also spent time thinking through the types of questions they might be asked, and how they could respond with clarity and relevance. But what stood out most in our conversation was how they could close the interview - how to leave the panel with a clear and memorable impression.

Together, we developed a simple structure to summarise their approach:

• Turning “Ideas” into action

• Building “Alignment” across teams and stakeholders

• Supporting others to “Execute” at scale

The key wasn’t about doing it all themselves, but enabling those around them. It was also about being approachable, building trust, and ensuring outcomes were sustainable.

Their closing words were less about convincing and more about connecting - the ability to apply what they’ve done in new ways, for this particular organisation and industry.

Many people finish interviews with a polite thank you, but a short, thoughtful summary can help tie everything together. It shows self-awareness and a clear sense of where and how you can contribute.

If you’re thinking about applying for a role and want to reflect on how to position your experience in a more focused and authentic way, feel free to get in touch.

Sometimes, a small shift in how you tell your story can make a big difference.