Evaluating Your Interview Performance Part 1

Waiting for your interview can be nerve-wracking, as can waiting to hear from the hiring manager afterward. If you're looking for signs that your interview went well, you probably feel good about the conversation and are anxious to hear back. Mixed feelings are common, but the interviewer’s mannerisms, attitude, and questions can signal their interest in hiring you. To evaluate how the interview went, look for key signals.

IT LASTED A LONG TIME Strong interviews often take the full scheduled period. This indicates that the interviewer is engaged and interested in learning more about you. If the interviewer continues asking questions even after the time is up, it could be a positive sign that they are considering you for a second interview. This extended engagement allows both parties to explore the fit more deeply.

YOU WERE INTRODUCED TO OTHER TEAM MEMBERS If you were introduced to other team members during the interview, it suggests that the interviewers see you as a potential fit for the team. This introduction can serve multiple purposes: it allows you to gauge the company culture and gives the interviewers a chance to see how you interact with potential colleagues. Such interactions can be a strong indicator of their interest in you for the role.

POSITIVE BODY LANGUAGE OF THE INTERVIEWER The body language of the interviewer can reveal a lot about their feelings during the interview. If they are smiling, nodding, and maintaining eye contact, it typically indicates that they are enjoying the conversation and are open to what you are saying. Positive body language can create a more relaxed atmosphere and facilitate a deeper connection, which is beneficial for both you and the interviewer.

MANY DETAILED QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE When interviewers ask detailed questions about your past experiences and skills, it shows they are seriously considering how you might fit into their organization. This level of inquiry indicates that they are not just looking for surface-level qualifications but are interested in understanding your capabilities and how they align with the role. It reflects an investment in you as a candidate.

DISCUSSING NEXT STEPS If the interviewer takes the time to discuss potential next steps or timelines during your conversation, it often indicates that they are seriously considering you for the position. This discussion may include information about when decisions will be made or what the next stages of the hiring process will entail. Such conversations can provide you with clarity and indicate a strong interest in moving forward.

YOU’RE ASKED ABOUT YOUR AVAILABILITY Being asked about your availability can be a significant indicator that the interviewers are considering you as a strong candidate. They may inquire about your schedule for upcoming interviews or potential start dates, signaling that they are eager to keep the process moving. This level of interest often suggests that they view you as a valuable addition to their team.

YOU RECEIVED A FOLLOW-UP MAIL OR CALL Receiving a follow-up email or call shortly after your interview can be a positive sign. Even if the message does not explicitly mention a second interview, it often indicates that the interviewers appreciated the conversation and are still thinking about you. This follow-up can serve as a way to keep the lines of communication open and demonstrate their ongoing interest in your candidacy.