This is something that has changed a lot from when I was in my early 20's to now in my mid-50's. Not just the passage of time, but also the fact that I now do

This is something that has changed a lot from when I was in my early 20's to now in my mid-50's. Not just the passage of time, but also the fact that I now do contracting/consultant work, where I know that every employment is temporary and I am looking for a good match for me as much as I am trying to convince them I am a good hire. In retrospect, in my youth I should have spent a little less time hoping I got the job, and a little more time reminding myself that I am wanting to find out if they are a good employer (more shopping mindset, less selling mindset). Not that one should be arrogant or anything, of course, but the interview should be working both ways. Also, in a phenomenon oddly similar to first dates, not trying so hard to sell yourself makes you more interesting to the other party, which means you do best in an interview when you need it least (life is not always fair).