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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]About to dive back in. I’m dreading the months ahead but trying my best to keep optimism afloat. It feels very lonely in my bubble. Help!

I had one 5-person panel interview at a friends company. It’s a good company with a good mission. I was older than the interviewers by several years and [b]am much more experienced in our field. I thought I was diplomatic and calm[/b], responded thoughtfully and thoroughly, and was friendly to everyone. I did my research and asked questions and avoided giving strong opinions. I could tell that they didn’t like me — and the feeling was mutual — but I still made a strong effort throughout the process. Word got back to my friend that [b]I came off as a know-it-all and they didn’t trust that I’d stick around long if I got the position because I was “obviously used to being the boss”. [/b]So, obviously didn’t get a call-back. Wasn’t a good culture fit, so I’m not fully crushed. But I still need a job and failed this attempt miserably.

Any helpful hints or suggestions from fellow “older” job seekers? BTDT stories?

Any interviewers out there have recommendations? Anyone who’s successfully navigated this process? What to do, what to avoid?[/quote]

OP - I'm highlighting two parts of your post that seem to correlate.  Not to be rude, but you sound arrogant - highlighting your relative seniority and emphasizing that you were "diplomatic and calm".  It's a little weird to come out of an interview and congratulate yourself for staying diplomatic and calm.  Like, what was the alternative?

Either way, it's not surprising that the panel had the feedback you did.

Finding a new job is a process.  Sometimes the long poll in the tent is finding the right opportunity, sometimes it's being prepared for the interview, sometimes it's the overall market.  In your case, it sounds like it'll be instilling a sense of humility in you.  I'd encourage you to seek a way to display the right balance between confidence and competence.  Ask a trusted friend for a practice interview.  Work on your example stories you plan to share and refine the tone of your voice to be less commanding.  All these little things will help improve how you come across.

Hope this helps.[/quote]

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