How to Tell if You Nailed or Failed the Interview

Even if you enter an interview well-prepared, you still normally have to wait days or even weeks to find out if you actually got the job. Fortunately, a successful interview may elicit certain verbal cues and actions from the interviewer, which can be a good indication of whether or not you can expect a call back.

Pay close attention to what your interviewer says and how he says it. For instance, if the interviewer uses forward-thinking language such as "when you start," this is a good indication of a successful interview according to "Destination Real World: Success after Graduation" author Amanda Haddaway. If the interview is going well, the interviewer may ask numerous follow-up questions to learn more about your experience and qualifications, and he may even ask about your salary expectations. If the interviewer seems to be trying to convince you rather than quiz you, you can probably expect a call back, according to workplace consultant Lynn Taylor.

If your interview is not going well, the interviewer may seem like he is just going through the motions, and he may not elaborate on job responsibilities and other important details. The interviewer may also continually emphasize a key job skill or experience level you don't have.

Another hint of a successful interview is positive body language. If your interviewer leans in towards you, nods frequently and makes eye contact, you have not been dismissed as a candidate, and the interviewer wants to hear what you have to say.

It is not a good sign if an interview that was set to take one hour is over in 15 minutes, so if the interviewer doesn't rush you out, he is likely seriously considering you as a candidate and wants to find out more about your skills and qualifications. A successful interview may also include the interviewer introducing you to other members of the team. According to career coach David Couper, unplanned introductions are a good sign, and pulling people out of meetings just to meet you is even better. However, if you were meant to meet with several people during your interview but only encounter one person, the company may not have found the extra introductions worth the time.

The final handshake is another important indicator, according to executive career coach Meg Montford. A limp handshake is never a good sign, but a firm shake along with a touch on the arm or shoulder indicates a successful interview.

Although you can often tell whether you are enjoying a successful interview based on the interviewer's actions, your own words and behaviors play a large role as well. If you don't ask questions, ask about the company's vacation policy or do not demonstrate knowledge about the company, interviewers may see you as disinterested. Demonstrate a positive attitude toward the company and the position to help ensure a successful interview.

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