Pivoting. It’s a concept we are re-introduced to every political season by pundits who analyze debate performances. We hear it and forget it, but it’s worth remembering for your next job interview.

A candidate is confronted with the results of a failed policy, exposed lies about a scandal, or his own regrettable past resurfacing in a video. Gasp! What can he do in that situation but be forthright and direct, admit guilt, and apologize? To the uninitiated, there is no choice when cornered like this but to answer as honestly as possible, exposing vulnerabilities for counterattacks, criticism, and scorn.

Politicians know there’s an alternative. It’s pivoting, and they practice it until it becomes second nature. Sometimes they practice it too much, and they can’t stop pivoting, like SNL’s Nicholas Fehn.

Job candidates find themselves in similar scenarios during interviews. If I could assume a job “campaign advisor” role for you, similar to what Barack Obama and George W. Bush might have heard from David Axelrod and Karl Rove, I would start by making three suggestions.

1. Acknowledge you have a significant employability weakness. Everyone does.
2. When asked about this weakness, you will superficially address the issue or make a minimal concession.
3. Then you will pivot to a related strength, and make it believably relevant.

For example, there is a barrier to leadership everyone must jump over at some point in their careers. Leadership positions require leadership experience. So if you don’t have significant managerial or supervisory experience, and you’re asked about it, you might wade into the shallow waters of your project management experience before pivoting to a related topic.

Leadership often involves strength, so when you pivot, talk about experiences that exemplify your strength and leadership potential. Consider examples of how you have been an idea generator, a tone setter at meetings, or a leader by your work ethic example.

Pivoting isn’t just a great technique for answering “gotcha” questions. It’s also useful for salary negotiations. Here, pivoting is a negotiation tool, enabling you to extract as much information as you provide, so that you can reach the best possible mutual agreement.

If asked directly for your salary requirement, instead of surrendering the lowest possible income you would consider, say this: “From my research and discussions with others in this role, a $XX — $YY range is reasonable for this position, given my qualifications.” It’s a slight pivot from the specific question that was asked, but entirely understandable. Now you will likely be offered a salary at the middle of the range instead of the bottom.

Have you had success pivoting during job interviews? Share your story with our community and your peers on our Facebook page.