Second interview nerves — how to stay sharp when you thought you were donE

First interview went great. They called back for a second. And somehow I was more nervous for the second one than the first.

HerE's what I think happens: after a good first interview, you start wanting the job more. The stakes feel higher. That emotional investment creates pressure.

What helped me:
I reviewed my notes from the first interview immediately after it ended — what questions came up, what I said, what I wished I'd added. The second interview is often an opportunity to go deeper on exactly those things.

I also reminded myself that being invited back means they like you. You're not starting from zero — you're building on an established positive impression.

One tactical tip: Ask at the end of the first interview who will be in the second and what it will focus on. This information is freely given and extremely useful for preparation.