How do you feel after finishing an interview? Do you replay the conversation in your head over and over again? Are you confident that the hiring manager will call you? Do you regret something you said?
After interviewing for a position it is common to experience emotions that run both high and low. At first you may feel like you nailed it, but after days of waiting for a phone call or e-mail, it is easy to second guess your confidence.
Instead of riding this roller coaster, use this reflective time to identify warning signs. If you look closely enough you will be able to tell if a hiring manager is really connecting with you or just going through the motions. Here are three signs that mean you probably won’t get the job:
1. Checklist Questions
Hiring managers go into interviews prepared with questions but tend to ask follow up questions if the conversation is going well. Unique follow up questions can shed light on what you might bring to the company. Unfortunately, sticking to a checklist of questions may be a sign that he or she is just passing the time. Impress the hiring manager by changing things up and asking questions of your own. Be engaging and see if this sparks a more in depth and lively conversation.
2. No Notes
A huge indicator of your appeal to a hiring manager is whether or not he or she takes notes during the interview. It is often the hiring manager’s job to brief the person who will conduct the follow up interview. Without notes, it seems impossible to capture all the nuances that need to be conveyed. However, with a keen sense of perception, you can turn this seemingly hopeless situation into a positive. Highlight the information you feel will intrigue the hiring manager. Perhaps it is your schooling, accolades and rewards, social interests, or other traits. Guide the conversation back to these points so the hiring manager does not forget what you bring to the table.
3. No Mention of a Follow Up
A hiring manager often ends the interview by explaining the next steps in the interview process. Should he conveniently fail to mention a follow up interview, it is okay to assert yourself by asking if and when you will hear from him. Furthermore, politely ask for permission to send an e-mail if you don’t hear from her.
If you leave an interview with a bad feeling in your gut, still practice good job search etiquette. It is important to follow up within 24 hours with an e-mail, thanking the hiring manager for his or her time.
Feeling like you gave a poor interview does not mean you won’t hear from the company again. There is a possibility that you will be asked for a follow up interview. In the meantime, stay positive. Replay the conversation in your mind and note the pros and cons. Use the interview as a learning tool to strengthen your interviewing skills next time around.
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