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What to Do if You Feel Intimidated

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26.08.2026

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We all have everyday situations where we feel intimidated, anxious, and the pressure to perform.

Preparation, going offense, having support, and clarity about the take-away you want to create all help.

Take time after to mop up, but also reflect on any lessons learned.

We’re not talking about encountering a mugger in an alley or a drunk in a bar looking for a fight. For most of us, feelings of intimidation arise in more mundane situations: the upcoming meeting with the CEO or a new client; meeting your soon-to-be in-laws at their home; the big job interview, or even the big first date with someone outside your comfort zone.

In these situations, intimidation can mean feeling nervous, feeling like you're at a disadvantage because of age or experience, or simply feeling pressure to make a good impression. What should you do? How should you handle it? Here are several suggestions to help you through.

Preparation varies depending on the situation. For the meeting with the CEO, do your research, learn about his company, and prepare a list of questions. For the in-laws, research their likes and dislikes and their personalities. For an interview, prepare questions about the job, but also any anecdotes they may appreciate that underscore your skills and........

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