Have you ever walked out of an interview for your ideal role and felt uncertain about how it went?
Or even worse, have you found yourself reflecting and worrying that you might have completely botched it?
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but understanding the signs of a successful interview can help ease your anxiety.
Here are the top 5 indicators to look out for during and after an interview to assess how it went and, also, how to recover if you think it didn’t go so well.
1. Length of the Interview
Pay attention to how long the interview lasts compared to the time allocated.
If it goes the full length or even runs over, it’s a positive sign.
For example, if a 30-minute interview extends beyond the scheduled time, it shows the interviewer is genuinely interested in you.
2. Body Language
In virtual interviews, body language can be more challenging to read, but it’s still crucial.
Look for signs like smiling, eye contact, and leaning in, which indicate engagement and interest.
If your interviewer has their arms crossed or lacks eye contact, it could suggest the opposite.
3. They’re Selling You on the Role
When interviewers start praising the company culture, the role, and their management style, it’s a clear sign they’re interested in you.
This “selling” behavior often indicates they see you as a strong candidate and want to entice you to join.
4. Trust Your Gut
After the interview, take a moment to reflect and listen to your intuition.
Your gut feeling can provide valuable insights into how the interview went. Trust your instincts and use them as a guide.
5. Ask a Bold Question
At the end of the interview, ask this question:
What’s your take on me as a candidate for this role?
This direct question can give you immediate feedback and an opportunity to address any concerns the interviewer might have before you leave.
Recovering from a Less-Than-Perfect Interview
If you feel the interview didn’t go well, it’s important to conduct a post-interview evaluation for yourself.
Identify areas where things might have gone wrong, and consider sending a thank-you email to address any issues.
For instance, one of my clients had an interview cut short because she was caught off guard by a question in the initial recruiter screening interview.
We crafted a thank-you note that clarified her excitement for the role, leading to a second chance with the recruiter who called her back within 10 minutes of her sending the email!
Remember, there’s often an opportunity to recover from an interview that didn’t go as planned.
A well-crafted thank-you note can make a significant difference and keep you in the running for your ideal role.
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