Management and business expert Suzy Welch warns that three "sudden death" interview answers can instantly sink otherwise strong candidates.

In a recent CNBC column, she recounts an MBA standout who kept getting rejected until a mock interview revealed he was telegraphing an eventual exit by saying he hoped to start a business, which she calls a fatal cue to recruiters investing in long-term hires.

Welch argues that certain statements trigger instant doubts about fit, durability, and drive -- and offers alternatives that focus on aligning with the company's mission and demonstrating growth mindset.

Welch's guidance: align long-term ambitions to the role and company so goals sound additive, not competitive, with the employer's needs. Acknowledge balance briefly, then emphasize craftsmanship, contribution, and team standards. If laid off, tell a forward-looking story about resilience, learning, and impact.

Fortune's reporting shows top executives probe for authenticity, motivation, and self-awareness -- areas strengthened by Welch's reframing advice -- not weakened by exit signals or defensive answers. Leaders from firms like Marriott, UKG, DHL, PwC, and Blackstone focus on why candidates want the role, how colleagues describe them, and what misconceptions they've overcome. So preparing substance-rich answers directly supports Welch's playbook.

Welch's advice is less about avoiding topics and more about framing: show commitment to the employer's mission, translate setbacks into learning, and keep the focus on contribution and growth. Fortune's coverage reinforces that the candidates who stand out marry this framing with strong self-awareness, visible enthusiasm for the role, and well-prepared answers to leaders' curveball questions.