Every interview round has obvious targets (the ones they tell you) and hidden targets (the ones they don't).
Understanding both is the secret to standing out.
I've mentored people to decode targets of each round:
1. Recruiter round
Obvious targets:
• Are you meeting job requirements?
• Are you meeting salary expectations?
Hidden targets:
• Are you confident, pleasant, and easy to work with?
• Are you clear about what you want?
Translation: Will you make me look good to the hiring manager?
2. Hiring manager round
Obvious targets:
• Can you do the job as described?
• Can you integrate into the team smoothly?
Hidden targets:
• Will you solve my team’s problems and take ownership?
• Will you make me look good to my boss and other stakeholders?
3. Panel round
Obvious targets:
• Are you a fit for the team and the company culture?
• Do you collaborate and perform under pressure?
Hidden targets:
• Will I personally enjoy working with you?
• Can you handle differing opinions and expectations?
4. Skip-leadership round
Obvious targets:
• Do you understand the company’s vision and strategy?
• Can you demonstrate leadership and think strategically?
Hidden targets:
• Do I see you as a future leader?
• Will you create measurable impact—make money, save money, or protect the company’s reputation?
Remember this: Interviewers want you to succeed.
• Recruiters want to fill the role.
• Managers want their team to function better.
Leaders want vision alignment and future leadership.
When you hit the obvious AND hidden targets, you make their decision easier.
You’ve got this! 🙌