The second we walk out of the interview door is a feeling of relief, or is it not? Often, we start second-guessing ourselves after a job interview, focusing on what we did wrong, not seeing the many things we did right. So, let’s shift our perspectives to positive ones. How can you tell if your interview went well? Here are 11 signs that your interview was a success and a strong indication that you stand a chance!
1. Let’s Keep Going
If your interview spilled over the allotted time, chances are the interviewers like what they hear. Hiring managers usually have these interviews slotted in between existing meetings and other commitments. If the interviewer chooses to invest time with you at the expense of overrunning their schedule—to know more about you and share more information about the company or role, you can take it as a good sign. Typically, if hiring managers are not interested, they will find ways to wrap up the interview quickly.
2. I Feel A Connection
There is chemistry, and you get a good vibe. Do not underestimate your gut feeling. If the interview felt more like a casual conversation or discussion rather than a formal interrogation, flowing smoothly and effortlessly with some friendly back-and-forth, small-talk, or even humour, it is a sign that you are probably doing well. It can also indicate that you are potentially a good fit with the team culture.
3. Read The Silent Words
The body language of your interviewer carries a lot of weight. Look out for positive non-verbal cues. Smiling, nodding, leaning forward, maintaining eye contact, giving you full attention, speaking with enthusiasm, responding positively to your answers, taking notes, and asking questions to encourage you to keep talking—are all signs to show that the interviewer is engaged and interested in what you are saying.
4. The Nitty-Gritty
If your interviewer starts diving into the specifics and practicalities of the role, such as discussing day-to-day tasks, intricate details of upcoming projects, and who you will work with, it is an indication that they are already envisioning you in the position and want you to get the complete picture of what the job entails. You may get complex scenario-based or specific technical questions thrown at you because they want to know how you will thrive in the company and what more you can offer. It may feel a little intimidating but pressing you for details is a good sign—unless you have been unclear in your earlier answers.
5. Sounds Like I’ve Already Got The Job
Interviewers may sometimes not even realise this about themselves, with the words they use giving them away. When you notice the interviewer starting to refer to you as an employee rather than a candidate, saying things like “when you start next month” or “you will attend the conference with me”, it can mean that they are already imagining you in the role.
6. They’re Selling Me The Job
We often forget that a job interview goes two ways. When a company is sold on your suitability for the role, they hope to make you feel the same about them as an employer so that you are more likely to accept their offer. When the interviewer starts to go all out pitching the role, touting exciting aspects of the job, such as the organisation’s successes, upcoming projects, growth opportunities, and rewards and benefits, it usually means that they want you. They will also do their best in providing complete and detailed answers to all your questions and constantly check back on your level of interest.
7. “Are You Considering Other Offers?”
Questions about your availability and other job prospects can suggest an employer’s serious interest. They may want to know how much in demand you are in the market, how quickly they need to move you to the next hiring stage, and how competitive an offer they need to make—to not lose out on having you on board.
8. Next Steps
Invitation to the next interview round is a win. Otherwise, when your interviewer volunteers details on the hiring timeline regarding the next steps, you will likely hear from them soon. It is their way of telling you that you are in the running and to “please not lose interest”. It is also a good indication that the potential employer values transparency with their candidates and has an organised hiring process.
9. Come Tour The Office & Meet The Team
If you get an impromptu office tour after the interview, it is an encouraging sign. If you do not stand a chance, there is no reason to bring you around. Your hiring manager wants to give you a glimpse of your future work environment and perhaps even have the other team members—your future colleagues meet you (and evaluate you). If you are being introduced to senior stakeholders on the spot, there is a chance that your hiring manager is excited about you and wants their bosses, the people who will sign off the hire, to see for themselves why you are the right choice.
10. The Important Thank-You Note
Often the interviewer will invite you to call or email if you have any questions after the interview. Whether you have any questions, it is a post-interview courtesy to send a thank-you note. If you receive a prompt personalised email response from the employer on how they will be in touch soon, it is an indicator that you are top of mind.
11. References Please
An employer will not spend the time to do background checks or speak with references if you are not in their candidate pool. In most cases, a background check comes at the end of the hiring process before employers are about to make an offer. As such, being asked for your references is a strong indication that you stand a chance.
Whilst a great interview does not guarantee that you land the job, it is a step in the right direction. None of these is foolproof, but if you continue to see a couple of these indicators, you will know you at least got a shot. Sometimes just knowing where you stand in the selections is all you need.