When you're answering questions, what you say is obviously very important. However, experienced interviewers are trained to also listen to the "emotional signals" behind your words. And it's something they do well.
One of the emotional signals they're looking out for is victim mentality.
Candidates give off a "victim mentality" vibe when they seem to implicitly blame others, or even circumstances, for the cause of their misfortunes.
We all suffer failures and misfortunes, of course.
But when your first instinct, your impulse, is to look externally and blame someone or something else for where you are right now, you're identifying (unconsciously) as a victim. Skilled interviewers can spot this impulse.
Be caref-ul about the emotional signals you give off during interviews.
The best way to not give off a victim mentality vibe is to not be a victim. It's easier said than done, especially if you're in a tough spot right now. But if you can decide, today, to take complete ownership of where you are, you're no longer a victim. Interviewers, no matter how sharp, won't be able to detect even the slightest hint of a victim mentality. Why?
Because there is none.
I was thinking about this while playing trying to play the guitar this morning.
(Long story, but I "inherited" my aunts old guitar and I just got it back from the repair shop. I'm teaching myself how to play. The cats like listenig to me.)
I hope this insight helps in your next interview