How do you know if you are not selected after an interview?

Unveiling Rejection Cues: Subtle Signs that a Job Interview Went South

Interviews are nerve-wracking, but there are some telltale signs that can provide insights into the hiring manager’s decision even before an official rejection letter arrives. Here’s a guide to deciphering subtle cues that may indicate you’re not the chosen one:

The Disinterested Interviewer

• Lack of eye contact and engagement from the interviewer.
• Short and curt responses, giving the impression that they’re simply going through the motions.
• Dismissive body language, such as crossed arms or a blank expression.

The Rushed Interview

• The interview ends abruptly, leaving you with unanswered questions.
• The interviewer seems distracted and eager to wrap things up.
• They cut off your responses or show impatience with your inquiries.

The Cancelled Meeting

• A confirmed interview is cancelled at the last minute, without a clear explanation or a rescheduled time.
• The recruiter fails to provide an alternative date or apologize for the inconvenience.

The Ambiguous Follow-Up

• The recruiter’s follow-up email or voicemail is vague and uninformative.
• They use non-committal language like “We’ll keep your application on file” or “We’ll update you if we move forward with other candidates.”
• They avoid providing a specific timeline or next steps.

Body Language and Demeanor

• The interviewer shifts uncomfortably in their seat or fidgets.
• They break eye contact and look away during your responses.
• They lean back and seem relaxed, indicating a lack of interest or engagement.

Other Subtle Clues

• The interviewer mentions that they have a strong candidate pool.
• They ask questions that seem like they’re trying to find fault with your application.
• They focus on hypothetical scenarios or past experiences that don’t directly relate to the job requirements.

It’s important to note that these cues are not definitive indicators of rejection. However, if you observe a combination of them during an interview, it may be prudent to prepare yourself for a less-than-favorable outcome. Remember, the job hunt is a marathon, not a sprint. Learn from each experience and keep your chin up. The perfect fit is out there, waiting for you.