Unfortunately there are too many details and nuances I don’t know. If it were me, I’d put on my most positive “we can make this work” attitude and try again. What’s to lose at this point? And you never know when your timing is just right – no matter what else might be going on. If you can muster the nerve to speak with both principals and let them see what positive, resourceful energy you bring to the job, it might help. Or if you know someone who can help you understand what happened and what might get you the job back, might be a great time to network.

I wish you much luck. Don’t let the fear of being rejected again (I know great people who have been rejected many times ) stop you from trying.

Sorry I didn’t get to your other comment yet. It’s been hectic around here. Yes…it helps to practice and to maybe even watch yourself on video if you can. But the trick is to practice and then let it go when you actually interview so you feel natural and totally in the moment. Show you can really listen and take your time to answer what they ask. Some people memorize lines and it comes off stiff and unreal. Most of all, believe in yourself.

Best if luck, AJ! Please let us know how it’s going. I know you can do it.

Often, when a person relaxes enough, they can let their true self shine through, and that should include energy! Nerves can sometimes drain and divert a person’s natural energy. Some people know how to use the nerves and turn it into excitement – but for many, the nerves just mask part of who they really are. So take those deep breaths, do your visualizations, and let your real self shine through with energy galore!

Rick: Thanks for adding to the conversation. You’re so right about how perfect those ads can make a job sound. When I used to interview for jobs, I sometimes would look at the ad and get scared for a minute and then remind myself that it’s just a job with real daily activities I can handle.

* As advertised, the job is just too perfect for you, and with the type of company you REALLY want to work for. You’re too uptight about giving an answer to a question that you only *perceive* might be the one that will determine if you’re a finalist or not.
* You’re out of work and you really need to land a job. So, this is front of mind as you walk in the door for the interview.

Just to name a couple of examples.

Still, you don’t want to be all Barney Fife jittery. When I was first teaching, I was told that doing something physical—vigorously erasing the blackboard at the start of a class, for instance—could burn off nervous energy and help you relax. Walking very briskly to your interview or even taking the stairs instead of the elevator [as long as you're sure you can exit the stairwell!] can serve the same purpose. Just make sure you’re not all sweaty or out of breath as a result.