I’ve written lots of posts extolling the benefits of using stories in the job search, as well as about how to structure those stories. (I calculate that about 14 percent of my posts have been about story in job search/career since I started this blog in 2005.) But I haven’t reported/written much about how to tell stories well in settings such as job interviews.

My colleague Sharon Graham (pictured) has just written a post that addresses that process. She advises that prospective interviewees “practice articulating longer versions of your resume bullets using a situation (introduction), action (body of the story), and result (conclusion) that you hope will keep your listeners interested.” But, of course, interviewers will likely want to hear some stories that aren’t on the resume. Sharon tells how to leverage those:

• Knowing how to engage listeners in an interview is pivotal. Reflecting on your brand story is a good jumping-off point. Whether your interviewers actually ask you to tell them why you believe you should be hired over any others or not, be ready with a short opener that tells them what makes you special.
• Telling stories that reflect your passion helps diffuse tension. In fact, when you are totally immersed in a story, you will relax and the content will flow. Some stories will seem to take longer than in practice while others will feel much shorter.
• Listening for opportunities to tell a short story will give you a chance to share more. Even when asked a traditional question like “what kind of leader are you?” you may spot an opening to segue into a story that illustrates your leadership style.
• Checking for reaction and interest is important. All great storytellers look around as they speak. They feed off the energy of their audience. Being aware of the reaction you are getting can keep you going or give you a hint that it’s time to wrap up.
• Keep the momentum – as long as your audience is captivated. If you are not entirely sure, you can pause and say something like, “Have I shared enough or would you like me to continue?”
• Wrap up the entire interview process with a fitting conclusion. Ensure your listeners know how much you appreciated their interest in you and your stories of success, and how much you would enjoy working with them in the future.

Sharon also nails one of the biggest reasons story is such a useful tool in interviews: “Once you start in on a story that is dear to your heart and deeply familiar, you will tell it convincingly.”