conv: I remember applying for my job in the government.  I felt pretty good about it! Man I felt good when I applied for my job! How did it go? That's an anxiety-inducing but hopeful situation! No I was very assured in my interview.  I got the job_comma_ probably because of my attitude. Congratulations! Enjoy the new gig! Good things happen to good people. I could definitely feel it going to other way if I was defeatist in my interview. Being defeatist is never a good move. Honestly_comma_ once you've got your foot in the door I think it's all about personality.  It can be_comma_ but personality can't make up for incomptence either. I would argue most good employers can diagnose incompetence from the first or second conversation. If they can't_comma_ maybe they aren't good employers.