Fill in Prep first
Two minutes of fact-checking. Wrong basics make you look less prepared than you are.
Say it out loud. Target 30 seconds, hard stop at 45.
"Is there anything about my background that would concern you in this process?"
Skip straight to your questions. Don't return to their background.
"AI and tech transformation work, while building strong generalist skills around it."
Stay qualitative and lead with the lesson, not the numbers, until your figures are verified.
"What's been the most fun project so far?"
Drop your third question. Never drop the close.
Use the reserve question, then end by minute 30.
"This is a bit raw." "I'm not really prepared." "This is a negative about me." Self-deprecating jokes. Comments on their name. Your preferences are clarity, not flaws.
Send the same day. Short, specific, matches their style.