After a recent interview setback for an internal management role, I gained valuable insights into the importance of clear self-representation. My former manager, who reached out for support, noted that my usual collaborative nature hadn’t come through in the interview, despite knowing me well. A mentor also suggested that my skills and strengths might not have been fully conveyed. Reflecting on this, I identified key reasons for the misrepresentation: assuming the interviewers knew my work style, nerves affecting my clarity, taking what comes naturally for granted, and overlooking the importance of balanced questions.

This experience reinforced a critical lesson: never assume others will fill in the gaps. Clear, intentional communication is essential to prevent misrepresentation and ensure we’re seen for who we truly are. For anyone experiencing their own “Waterloo” moment, reflecting and recalibrating can be the first step toward future success.

After a recent interview setback for an internal management role, I gained valuable insights into the importance of clear self-representation. My former manager, who reached out for support, noted that my usual collaborative nature hadn’t come through in the interview, despite knowing me well. A mentor also suggested that my skills and strengths might not have been fully conveyed. Reflecting on this, I identified key reasons for the misrepresentation: assuming the interviewers knew my work style, nerves affecting my clarity, taking what comes naturally for granted, and overlooking the importance of balanced questions.

This experience reinforced a critical lesson: never assume others will fill in the gaps. Clear, intentional communication is essential to prevent misrepresentation and ensure we’re seen for who we truly are. For anyone experiencing their own “Waterloo” moment, reflecting and recalibrating can be the first step toward future success.