No exam I had taken before compared with the demands and the tension that surrounded my confirmation hearing for the post of secretary of State. The personal side of my life would be open for inspection, including my finances, prior affiliations, and any potential conflict of interest. Despite his worries, Shultz aced the hearing and easily won confirmation. If you are like most nominees, your hearing will probably be swift and uneventful. It may be an event for celebration.
Nominees customarily bring their spouses, parents and children along.
You will also be accompanied by several stalwarts from your future department, who may themselves be walking encyclopedias of information. However, it is what is in your head that the senators will be after, and you will face the microphone alone. Hearings are formal events. You will be sworn in, although the rules of evidence will not apply senators can ask whatever they want. Be deferential at all times.