Varun's response begins with a request for clarification, which indicates uncertainty and a lack of preparedness to address the question. This approach detracts from his credibility, especially for a senior role. In contrast, the benchmark response effectively articulates specific examples of how IT consulting expertise was applied to drive strategic initiatives and improve business metrics. Varun should have proactively shared relevant experiences from his background, focusing on measurable outcomes such as revenue growth, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. A more confident and direct answer would have showcased his expertise better.