Imagine an out of the gate interaction for a senior level role where the firm's representative INSTRUCTS you to answer only in the shortest form possible. Example: Answer Yes or No questions only with a Yes or No - don't elaborate or give additional clarity. Answer percentage questions with only a percentage answer - no additional info ... and this is how we'll spend the next 40 minutes. I ask you a question - you give an absolute minimal answer. Now image this firm's Sr. Director speaking to another person of tenure, senior career Managing Partner and making such a requirement under the specious claim that "otherwise we would talk for hours". So you try and be professional and accommodating to their chosen approach and you start down this ridiculous road. Clearly, the individual having the "playbook" of questions hasn't a soft skill set within him ... but remember this person will also be your direct manager and your introduction to him is "You will answer only with a Yes or No when I ask questions". Hell even on Law & Order the witness had more latitude.
