Most job seekers can't resist analyzing every detail of an interview as they await a job offer or rejection. While it's impossible to perfectly predict what a hiring manager is thinking, you can regain some peace of mind by watching out for these common signs of a good job interview.
1. Interview Runs Over
Hiring managers often have a tight interview schedule, and they generally try to cut meetings short when an applicant is a poor fit. If your interviewer is so immersed in the conversation that your interview exceeds the allotted time, you probably have a strong chance of moving to the top of the candidate list.
2. Reference Check Inquiry
Reference checks usually occur at the end of the hiring process when you're seriously under consideration. Being asked to provide references after interviewing is a good sign that a job offer is in your future.
3. Enthusiasm
Genuine enthusiasm is difficult to fake, so pay attention to the interviewer's body language. An impressed hiring manager may smile frequently, listen attentively and nod in agreement.
4. Social Questions
Before you dismiss the social chitchat, be aware that the interviewer may be trying to learn more about your personality. Politely decline if the conversation wanders into illegal territory, but be willing to share your personal interests and hobbies.
5. In-depth Questions
Asking you to elaborate can indicate that an interviewer wasn't satisfied with your answers, but it might also mean she is excited about your level of experience. A good hiring manager is thorough, as any tidbit of information may distinguish your strengths from the competition.
6. Company Tour
If you survive multiple rounds of interviewing and get invited to tour the company, a job offer could be next. The recruiter wants to woo good candidates, and a tour can help you envision yourself on the job.
7. Staff Introductions
Introducing you to the staff is a step most interviewer's reserve for top applicants. Even if you aren't first on the list, another candidate could decline or fall short during reference checks, leading to a possible job offer.
8. Probing for Competition
When you're a frontrunner, don't be surprised if hiring managers want to know whether you're interviewing elsewhere. Vetting the competition can motivate employers to act quickly with an attractive job offer.
9. Follow-up Discussion
Stay confident if the interviewer thoroughly explains the next steps of the process, especially when you have already met key staff members and received a firm date for the company's final decision.
10. Selling the Company
Employers realize the best candidates have options, making them eager to recruit sought-after professionals by selling their company culture and highlighting workplace benefits.
11. Reaffirming Language
After a good job interview, hiring managers may repeatedly mention where you "will" work, instead of "would." A shift in language could mean the interviewer already sees you in the role.
Whether you are hopeful or discouraged after an interview, maintain a positive attitude and gracious demeanor throughout the process. In many cases, new hires don't work out, and employers may reconsider you for a job offer in the future.
Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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