Interviews - high stress

For leaders interviewing under high stress — a reflection.

Pressure changes presence. And presence is everything!

I recently coached a leader with strong results and real capability — but in interviews, stress was leading the room.

When you need the role, you shift into performance mode:

You over-explain.

You try to say the “right” thing.

You unconsciously seek approval.

But leadership energy isn’t approval-seeking… It’s grounded certainty.

The shift?

From: “I hope they pick me.”

To: “Let’s see if we’re aligned.”

Interviews are not tests… They’re leadership rooms.

A few reminders if you’re navigating this season:

• Regulate your nervous system before the interview (e.g. breathing exercises or something that brings your positive energy up).

• Prepare 3 clear stories of impact.

• Stop defending your résumé — own your narrative.

• Evaluate culture and mission as much as they evaluate you.

• Remember: you are evaluating them too.

Leadership isn’t revealed when you have the title.

It’s revealed in how you show up when you don’t.

If you’re navigating interviews right now and want to refine your presence, narrative, and confidence — I can help. You don’t need to do this alone.

Send me a message.

#Leadership #ExecutivePresence #CareerTransition #Authenticity #Purpose