There's a lot of stress that comes with preparing for an interview, and this article should help simplify things. But don't expect a run-of-the-mill guide full of stale advice—this is a tongue-in-cheek look at what really goes on in interviews for most roles. You'd never guess how many people don't expect to be tested on their cognitive prowess, analytical sharpness, and cultural fit—those tricky areas where objectivity often takes a back seat. So, take a seat and enjoy some candid observations that might be useful for your next big interview.

Show, Don't Tell

Resist the urge to ramble—interviewers have already skimmed through each candidate's CV. What they're after is someone who can handle the job on offer. So, how do you prove it? First, demonstrate that you've done the job before—this is the most straightforward and often a no-brainer if the talent pool is competitive. Second, emphasize your ability to learn and adapt in high-pressure environments. Lastly, highlight strong cognitive skills that can tackle complex problems.

Keep Your Answers Crisp

Even when the interview feels laid-back, don't let that fool you into abandoning structure. Concise answers are always best. Start with the main points—ideally, no more than three. These should be the core ideas you want to communicate. After laying them out, dive into a brief explanation for each. Knowing when to stop is just as important as knowing what to say. Stick to this approach, and your answers will resonate long after the interview ends.

Own Your Role

Remember that the company isn't hiring a team when discussing past roles—they're hiring you. It's easy to fall into the trap of talking up what "we" did, but interviewers want to know what a candidate brought to the table in past roles. Don't over-exaggerate past contributions, especially in team projects. Experienced interviewers can spot when someone is stretching the truth, which often leads to stumbling over details you're not confident in. Instead, zero in on the work you were truly responsible for.

Stay Cool Under Fire

When an interviewer pushes back, don't immediately assume they disagree. Interviews aren't perfect; sometimes, they're just testing a candidate's conviction or seeing how they handle pressure. Even if they secretly agree, they might challenge a candidate to gauge their true thoughts. Try not to get flustered. Instead, take a deep breath and walk them through your reasoning in a logical, composed manner. This is a chance to show how well you can defend your ideas when the heat is on.

Be Yourself

Finally, an interview isn't just about convincing the company you're right for the job; it's also about figuring out if the company is right for you. Sure, every candidate wants to be likable, but isn't it more important to ensure there's a genuine fit? Think of it as a courtship—it's about making a good impression and finding a lasting connection. The best way to do that is to be authentic. Staying true to yourself is the best way to attract the right opportunities and set the stage for a sustainable, fulfilling career.