How to prepare for an unscripted, off‑the‑cuff conversation that delivers immediate value to C‑level readers.
Come prepared to think out loud, not recite talking points.Mr. HIStalk does not send questions in advance and he does not follow a script, so bring a flexible, conversational mindset.
Assume the audience is highly intelligent and time‑starved.Speak concisely, avoid boilerplate, and focus on ideas that inform decisions, save time, or change how leaders think.
Have three anchor ideas ready.Choose three points you want to land regardless of the path, such as a misconception to correct, a strategic lesson, or a contrarian insight.
Bring one or two real numbers or examples.C‑level readers trust specifics, so include a metric, a short case example, or a measurable outcome, even if modest.
Prepare one short story that illustrates your worldview.Executives remember stories, so share a 20 to 30 second anecdote about a customer moment, a lesson, or a turning point.
Be comfortable with candor.Admit at least one challenge, trade‑off, or failure that taught you something useful, which builds credibility and trust.
Avoid naming products unless necessary.Discuss problems, strategies, and outcomes, not feature lists, and only mention a product if it clarifies a broader point.
Speak in frameworks, not long lists.Offer a simple structure, for example, three forces shaping the market, which makes ideas easier to remember and to act on.
Keep answers short enough to be punchy, long enough to be useful.Aim for 20 to 40 seconds per idea so the interview stays lively while still delivering substance.
Think like a teacher, not a vendor.Give readers something they can use today, such as a risk to watch, a process to try, or a way to evaluate a decision.
Be ready to pivot gracefully.If a question surprises you, share a principle, a relevant example, or a clear boundary, and then move the discussion forward.
Show some personality.A moment of humor, humility, or curiosity makes the conversation more readable and more memorable.
Close with one message you want remembered.End with a clear takeaway, for example, a single recommendation for health‑system leaders in the next 12 months.