Master the Stealth Interview: Turn Casual Chats into Career Openings at the WBW Conference

Not every interview happens across a desk.

Every conversation can be an interview—whether it’s a chat over coffee or a quick exchange at a booth. When you’re returning to work, these informal moments are often the first impression you make. The key is to showcase your strengths naturally, without overselling. It’s about being present, asking thoughtful questions, and knowing how to connect your experience to the conversation, genuinely and confidently.

At the Women Back to Work Conference, there will be plenty of formal opportunities to connect with employers. But some of the most important impressions you’ll make might come from unexpected, informal moments. These are what we call “stealth interviews”—and they can be just as meaningful as the real thing.

Here’s how to recognize these moments—and turn them into powerful stepping stones on your return-to-work journey.

Spot the “Interview Moments”

You don’t need a scheduled slot to have a career-shaping conversation. Some of the most organic and revealing interactions happen between sessions, while waiting in line for coffee, or during Q&As after employer panels.

If you’re chatting with someone from a company you’re interested in—even briefly—that’s your moment. Treat it like a mini-interview. Show curiosity. Show engagement. And most importantly, show who you are as a professional.

Ask Insightful Questions That Reflect Your Experience

Instead of defaulting to “So, what does your company do?” try asking questions that spark real conversation—and demonstrate your understanding of the space.

Here are a few examples:

“I read that [Industry Trend] is impacting a lot of teams—how is your company approaching that right now?”

“What’s one challenge your department is focused on solving this year?”

“Are you seeing any shifts in how you onboard or support returners?”

These questions signal that you’re not just passively interested—you’re already thinking like someone on the inside.

Weave in Your Experience—Naturally

You don’t need a pitch deck to talk about your background. The key is making it conversational, not scripted.

Let’s say someone mentions a challenge they’re facing. That’s your cue:

“That reminds me of something I tackled in a previous role—our team was struggling with [X], and I helped roll out [Y], which improved [Z].”

This isn’t bragging—it’s value-sharing. You’re connecting the dots, showing that your experience (even if it’s from before your career break) is still relevant and useful.

Your presence speaks too.

You don’t have to say a lot to leave an impression. The way you show up—eye contact, body language, calm confidence—can speak volumes.

What returners often forget: your lived experience has shaped your resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. That energy is powerful in a professional space. Let it show.

Know When (and how) to Follow Up

The final part of the stealth interview? Don’t let the conversation end without an open door.

A simple line like:

“I enjoyed talking with you. Would you be open to a quick virtual coffee next week to continue this?”

That’s it. Then exchange contact info (LinkedIn works great!) and follow through. You don’t need to push for a job—you’re building a relationship. And that’s how opportunities begin.

Your Takeaway: Every Conversation Counts

Not every opportunity is labelled “Interview.” But that doesn’t mean it’s not one. At the WBW Conference, you’ll meet people who are open, curious, and looking for talent like yours.

Be prepared to show up fully. Ask smart questions. Share what you bring to the table. And trust that even a casual conversation can lead to the right door opening.

The Women Back to Work Conference is designed for returners like you—full of moments (big and small) to get seen, heard, and hired.

Join us on August 21, 2025, in Santa Clara, CA, for the networking, support, and job opportunities you’ve been waiting for.