When to admit defeat

I have to tell the truth, I still have to digest it. That bitter feeling when you didn’t get the job you wanted.  I waited a couple of weeks to get the call, but the truth is I already knew I was not their first choice. I had a feeling and I was right. It was more than mere intuition, it was rather based on facts.

Problem and/or opportunity?

On my Linkedin header I’ve written: Where you see a problem, I see an opportunity, referring to a incorrect interpretation of the Chinese word for "crisis" (危机, wēijī]) that is often said  to be composed of two Chinese characters signifying "danger" (wēi, 危) and "opportunity" (jī, 机), when actually is jīhuì 机会. However I do believe in that sentence and it is one of my mantras. Instead of complaining and mortifying myself because I didn’t make it, I prefer to take this as an opportunity to see what I could have done differently and how I can improve my performance next time. Yes, because we’re talking about a show. Don’t even think that your interviewer would go to great lengths to go over your anxiety and see your true colours. Their evaluation is based exclusively on what you say and how you say it.

Owning my mistakes

There were some things I couldn't do anything about. For example I couldn’t  make up for the scarce experience I have in a specific industry, or for the lack of sleep I had the night before, or for the bad mood I woke up in (even though psychologists would say that it is actually possible to control your emotions). However I could have done something to prepare myself better and be ready to answer possible concerns the interlocutor might have had. I knew they had plenty of experience in the same industry. I knew they were into numbers and strategy and I was only partially prepared to answer those questions. Also they needed someone who could support them in solving problems and seize new opportunities and I probably didn’t appear confident, eager or prepared enough in their eyes. 

I’m sure I have all the experience and competence they need but in the end it’s my fault if they couldn’t see it. I was overconfident I was the right fit for the position and thought everything would work itself out.

Preparation is key 

Everything starts from a role-play in your head. When you think of all the possible questions that person can ask you, then, and only then, you have done a good job. Of course there’s still space for unforeseen questions, but at least you have covered all the main angles. 

I’ll do better next time and if I’m lucky enough I’ll find even a better position.