How I Anchored at 10000 USD and What I Learned From a High Pressure Interview
I joined a Google Ads interview thinking it would be a simple call with one decision maker. It became a panel interview with a marketer and a co founder. The pressure changed fast.
I handled a live audit.
I diagnosed issues.
I reviewed tracking.
I checked feed status.
I pointed out ROAS problems.
I explained why the account dropped from 4x to 2x.
I showed the steps needed to fix it.
Then we talked about fees.
They tested my rate.
They compared me to a London agency.
They asked if I could lower my price for two brands.
This was the key moment.
I anchored at 10000 USD.
It was a strong anchor.
It showed confidence.
It moved the negotiation into a serious range.
Later I offered 4000 USD for both brands as my middle ground.
Anchoring works.
It sets the frame.
It positions you as a strategic partner, not a cheap operator.
What I learned:
• clients judge structure, not just skill
• a clean roadmap can win the pitch
• panel interviews pressure test your thinking
• anchoring high protects your value
• speed of decision reveals budget limits
• losing a deal is not losing your expertise
• packaging matters as much as ability
The co founder focused on ROAS and margin.
The marketer focused on clarity and structure.
I impressed the technical side.
The winning candidate presented a structured plan during the call.
That was the difference.
I did not lose because of skill.
I lost because of presentation.
The experience was important because it showed me one thing clearly:
When you anchor at 10000 USD, you own the conversation.
When you present a clear roadmap, you win the deal.
I protected my process.
I stayed professional.
I kept the door open.
I moved forward stronger.
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