Interviews are hard work. If you’re going to have any success, you’ve got to devote the time to thorough preparation and be on your game throughout the conversation. Since most of us only interview every few years or so, though, it may be something you feel a little uncomfortable with. It might be hard to shake the feeling that you’re a little rusty – that you never have a chance to get into a groove.

Not surprisingly, interviewing may not be one of your favorite things to do.

Guess what?

Some of the folks interviewing you may be feeling the same way.

Their reasons are probably a little different than yours, but if you ask 20 hiring managers whether they enjoy interviewing, a hefty percentage will tell you they don’t (HR staff excluded).

So – you’re a little nervous, (maybe a LOT nervous), you’ve got a lot riding on this – and there’s a chance the person you’re talking with isn’t thrilled about talking with you.

Doesn’t sound like the foundation for a great meeting, does it?

It’s not.

First, understand why the person interviewing you might not be revved up and ready to go. Here are a few scenarios:

• He’s under a lot of pressure and buried with work. He’s interested in filling the position, but conversely, he knows that devoting an hour to this conversation – especially since you’re the third candidate who’s been in today – is going to destroy his schedule and guarantee a late night. He doesn’t feel like he has time for this right now and wishes it weren’t happening today.

• You’re not going to be her direct report; if you were to be hired, the two of you would be only peripherally involved. Still, the CEO wants you to interview with all department heads. As a result, this person isn’t very interested in this conversation.

• She’s disgruntled with the company; consequently, she’s not invested in this hire.

• He doesn’t interview people very often. Because he’s not a skilled interviewer, he feels uncomfortable in these settings.

You may be faced with one of these people next time you interview. What are you going to do to make sure you get the best result possible?

Give this some thought as you’re prepping. Understand that you may not be the only one who’s feeling anxious, or uncomfortable. You need to be able to read the “vibe” quickly, know how to react to it, and direct the conversation to the best of your ability.

You can wield more control than you may think.