Joseph Louis Tan

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Why “just be yourself” fails in interviews

It’s Day 2 out here in the jungle.


We’ve been navigating through thick brush, completing field missions with barely any sleep. It’s a reminder: in high-stakes environments, preparation isn’t optional. It’s everything.


And oddly enough — it reminds me of what most UX designers hear before interviews:


“You got this. Just be yourself.”


Sounds supportive, right?

But here’s the truth:


“Just be yourself” only works if you know which version of you to show.


Not because you’re fake.

But because in an interview, time is short — and every answer sends a signal.


If you default to the safe, humble version of yourself?

You might come across as junior.

If you ramble or overexplain?

You might sound uncertain.

If you don’t prepare for edge cases?

You leave the outcome to luck.


It’s not about being fake.

It’s about choosing the clearest, sharpest, most trusted version of you — and preparing for that to show up consistently.




That’s exactly what the Interview-to-Offer Blueprint is for.


Not more fluff. Not another portfolio review.

Just 4 focused modules to help you:



These are the same tools I’ve used with design leads, ICs, and PMs to land $150K–$300K+ roles — without “winging it.”


👉 Get the blueprint here — $197, pre-recorded, instant access.


I’m offline again tonight for another mission.

But if you’ve been stuck at final rounds or second-guessing yourself…


This might be your next best move.


– Joseph

(Still in uniform 🪖)




P.S.

The job doesn’t go to the most talented.

It goes to the most clearly understood.


Make sure that’s you.

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