Interview Question with Kiran Nambiar

August 15, 2024

Interview Question: How would this role build upon your previous experience?

This question might seem like a simple formality in an interview, but it holds a lot of power. When used effectively, it can spark a deeper conversation that reveals a candidate’s true potential and fit for the role.

 

The Interviewer’s Perspective:

This question can help uncover the candidate’s true understanding of the role. They have an idea of what their day-to-day will look like and how it builds upon their experience. Your job is to listen for their perceptions and expectations. You are looking for someone who is a true fit – not just a match on paper. As the interviewer, your role is to ask the question and then dig a bit deeper using follow up “How” questions. Their answers should demonstrate awareness of the challenges and opportunities of the role and genuine interest in it.

• If they see the role as a new challenge –> How would they build upon their learned experience in the new role?
• If they see it as an opportunity to grow their career –> How does this role fit into their long-term career aspirations?
• If they are they looking for a better organisational culture –> How do they believe this aligns with their values?

Overall use this question as a conversation starter to dig deep into the capabilities and vision of the candidate.

What are some red flags? Watch out for candidates that dwell on negativity or offer generic responses lacking research. These responses could signal a mismatch in fit and expectations.

Bonus: Pay attention to any recurring themes in all candidate responses. These insights could inform what makes a strong job description to attract future candidates.

 

What to convey as an interviewee:

Now is the time genuinely express enthusiasm about the job opportunity (without disrespecting any previous employer). Something about this role excited you as an improvement from your current situation. You’re not here simply to escape a negative culture or chase a bigger pay check. Articulate why this specific opportunity excites you. Is it the chance to lead innovative projects, collaborate with a dynamic team, expand your worldview, or make a meaningful impact on the company’s goals? Show how the role aligns with your career aspirations. To really impress, show that you’ve done your homework.

• You know the company’s culture and vision from people that already work there.
• You know about the organisation’s mission and industry involvement.
• You know what a progressive career might look like within this organisation.

Remember that organizations are looking for someone who can quickly contribute as a valuable asset. Your past experiences have prepared you for this role. You have a desire for continuous learning and willingness to tackle fresh challenges and opportunities different than what you’ve done before.

What not to do?: Recite your resume verbatim. Make sure you connect the dots from old to new. After all, this role is not just another stop on your career path or a guaranteed salary – it’s a catalyst for your professional evolution.

 

Industry Expert: Kiran Nambiar – Senior Vice President Sales North America ANZCRO

Kiran shares tips on how to answer this question:

This question opens an excellent opportunity for the interviewee to showcase how the past work experience and roles are relevant to the role, and how skills from a previous role are transferable to be used in the new role. It also gives the interviewer brilliant insight on understanding how well the candidate has grasped the requirements of the role while offering some visibility on the future direction and the personal goals for the candidate.

In my personal context, I feel I have been training all my life for my current role:

• My time working with Tour Operator as Product Manager taught what insights, tools and training Travel Sellers need from their DMCs to develop, launch, and operate to new destinations.
• My time at Tourism New Zealand as Regional Manager South & South-East Asia taught me business development work encouraging successful Travel Sellers to consider New Zealand as a new destination in their product portfolio. And in the power of partnerships with Airlines and other influential players in the travel trade distribution channel.
• My time working with Destination Queenstown taught me the crucial role in-destination products and operators play to influence the distribution channel.
• My time doing the Executive MBA at Rotman at University of Toronto taught me frameworks that I use daily to chart business plans, navigate discussions, and in managing partners we work with; and improved my analytical, writing and presenting skills.
• My time living in United States and Canada taught me a lot about daily life, the media universe, and the opportunity for Australia & New Zealand in these massive markets.

Reflect on all your building blocks and take the opportunity to deliver a deep and insightful response with this question.

 

Conclusion:

This question isn’t just transactional – it’s first step in digging deeper. Used effectively, it can unlock a truly engaging and insightful conversation.