Why High-Stakes Interviews Feel So Hard

Have you ever nailed an interview for a job you weren’t that excited about—only to completely choke when it was a role you really wanted?

You’re not alone.

I once worked with a CPG marketing leader who had great interviews for roles they weren’t fully invested in. But when their dream job came along? The nerves took over. They over-prepared, second-guessed every answer, and left the interview feeling defeated.

Why does this happen? Because the more we want something, the harder we grip it. And that pressure can sabotage our performance.

How to Stop Psyching Yourself Out

The good news? You can change this. Here’s how my client shifted their mindset—and finally landed the role they wanted most.

✅ Reframe Your Thinking

• Instead of: “I have to get this job.”
• Try: “I’m here to see if this is the right fit for both of us.”
• Why it works: This removes the pressure and puts you in evaluation mode, making you a stronger, more confident candidate...

Every Interview Is a Networking Opportunity

When most people think about interviews, they only focus on landing the job. But here’s the thing—interviews are so much more than that. They’re opportunities to expand your network, build relationships, and even open unexpected doors.

One of my clients shared this great story: after an interview that didn’t result in an offer, the hiring manager introduced them to someone else in their network who was hiring. That introduction led to a role that turned out to be a much better fit.

The truth is, how you show up in an interview matters beyond the immediate role. Every conversation is a chance to leave a lasting impression and strengthen your network.

Ask Smart Questions That Spark Connection
Interviews aren’t just about answering questions—they’re about having a meaningful conversation. When you ask thoughtful, open-ended questions, you show that you’re genuinely curious and invested in solving challenges.

Here are a couple of my favorit...