[st1x7]

It's more than just the value conversation. The best interviewees are relaxed and act like they have other good employment options (and they often do). If you've been laid off and don't know how to make next month's rent, acting like you have better options is both an act and a gamble on your part. It's understandably difficult to pull off.

[austincheney]

Relaxed doesn’t mean hopelessly stringing along a bunch of equivocation nonsense fishing for sympathy. I understand that temporary financial pressures are stressful but that isn’t a concern of the hiring company. Attempts to make it a concern are distractions that end in failure. As unfair as this sounds it looks like weakness.

Instead, focus. Calm down. Think about writing software and building cool products. Redirect your energy into enthusiasm and try to have a conversation about adding value to your potential future employer.