Lessons From the Other Side of the Interview Table
Lessons From the Other Side of the Interview Table
Earlier this summer, I spent some time interviewing with other agencies. Honestly… it was humbling.
Sitting on the candidate side of the table after 20 years on the other side was a reminder of just how challenging interviews can be. It’s not just about presenting your best self, it’s the uncertainty. Not knowing exactly what the interviewer is looking for, or what a client truly values, can make even small moments feel disproportionately stressful. It’s exhausting in a way you only truly appreciate when you’re in it.
That experience reinforced something I’ve always known: my desire to build my own business, to create a space where I can focus on the work I’m truly passionate about.
It also reminded me why I approach interviews with candidates the way I do. I make a point to be transparent about what a client is looking for, the pressure points of the role, and what success actually looks like. My goal is to remove as much uncertainty as possible so the candidate can focus on demonstrating their true potential, rather than guessing expectations.
Interviews are inherently tough, but by removing the unknowns, we can make the process more constructive, fair, and even enjoyable, for everyone involved.