If you recently interviewed for a job, you may be curious about how you performed and whether the employer may likely advance you to the next stage (or perhaps offer you the job straight away) or whether you will be rejected (or never hear from the company again). While it’s difficult to know with certainty based on your interview performance alone, there are some signs that may suggest whether the interview went well or rather the opposite. Understanding what verbal and nonverbal signals may indicate a positive outcome can help you navigate throughout the application process.

I’ve organized these signals from the least significant to the most, but it’s important to note that nothing is black and white. It happened to me personally as a candidate that I felt my interview went really well, only to receive a rejection email whilst still on my way back home. Many interviewers, and people in general, often shy away from delivering negative messages, especially in person. Companies also want you to think that they thoroughly considered your application rather than dismissing it quickly during the interview. They aim to provide a “positive candidate experience,” they say. That’s why I’ve included alternative explanations behind these signals, as they may not always indicate that you’ll receive an offer.

1. They offer positive verbal feedback on your responses.

They respond to your answers with positive expressions like “nice,” “interesting,” “good,” “impressive,” etc. This might indicate that they appreciate your responses and that they align with what they’re looking for.

On the flip side, it’s important to consider that their positive remarks may not always be entirely sincere. They might be offering praise as a polite response, not necessarily because they genuinely believe in your suitability for the role. Alternatively, they might find your answers interesting or impressive but not necessarily relevant to the job.

2. You notice the interviewer’s positive body language.

The interviewer will maintain lively eye contact and may offer nonverbal cues like smiling and nodding in agreement as you speak. This indicates their active engagement in the conversation and openness to the answers and information you’re sharing.

Alternatively, it’s worth considering that the interviewer might be simply employing active listening techniques, aiming to provide positive feedback to motivate you to perform at your best.

3. The conversation turns casual.

A job interview is generally considered a formal business conversation, and interviewers often adhere to this protocol, frequently following a structured scenario to maintain consistency among candidates. However, when the discussion transitions from strictly focusing on your qualifications to a more casual tone, it can be a positive sign. A more relaxed conversation suggests that they’re satisfied with your ability to handle the essential functions of the role, and they’re steering the discussion toward getting to know you better on a personal level.

On the other hand, it’s also possible that the interviewer has already formed the opinion that you might not be the right fit, and they’re filling the time to avoid making the interview seem too short.

4. They discuss the follow-up procedures.

If the interviewer takes the initiative to talk about the next steps in the hiring process, it’s often a positive indication that the interview went well.

Alternatively, if they present the information conditionally, it might mean that nothing has been conclusively decided, and this is merely a formal announcement as part of their interview script. 

5. They are trying to “sell” you the job.

If the interviewer begins highlighting the career prospects, development opportunities, and other benefits and perks the organization provides, it’s a strong indicator that they might be considering extending an offer.

On the flip side, it’s possible that the interviewer is just promoting how fantastic their company is, as they take pride in their organization and what they have achieved. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they actually plan to hire you.

6. The interviewer asks about your impression.

If the interviewer inquires about your thoughts on the position or the company, it could be a sign that they’re interested in bringing you on board. By asking this question, they can gauge your reaction to the role and respond to any questions or overcome objections you might have.

Alternatively, they might simply be looking for feedback on their Employee Value Proposition (EVP).

7. They contact your references.

Contacting your references after the interview can be a sign the interview was a success and  they want to gather more insights about you.

On the other hand, it might just be a formal step taken before finalizing the hiring decision.

8. They introduce you to other team members.

If this happened to be your final interview, a key indicator that you did well is when they introduce you to other members of the team or stakeholders to get to know each other.

Alternatively, if it wasn’t the final interview, the introduction to other team members is probably aimed at allowing them to form an opinion about you which will contribute to the decision-making process.

9. You’re taken on a tour.

Just like meeting the team, if the interviewer suggests showing you around the company premises, it’s a positive sign that your interview went well. Being taken on a tour of the building strongly suggests they are trying to convince you about the job.

10. They tell you that you’ve got the job.

It’s not a common occurrence during an interview, but sometimes it does happen. While this is a strong sign of success, such a statement essentially constitutes a verbal offer, which may or may not be legally binding, depending on your jurisdiction. Don’t celebrate too soon; wait for the formal offer and carefully review all the details.

These are NOT good signs, despite common belief:

• They ask about your salary expectations
• They ask about your availability
• The interviewer hands you their business card and connects with you on LinkedIn

These are typically standard components of the recruitment process and don’t necessarily carry any special significance.

Conclusion

A friend of mine was once verbally offered a job that involved relocating (with accommodation included). Everything seemed settled, and on the day before he was supposed to start working he arrived with all his belongings to finalize paperwork and move in. However, they informed him that they had given the job to someone else.

Even if you aced the interview, there’s always a chance someone who follows might outperform you. It’s crucial not to get too attached to a single job opportunity. Keep your job search in full swing until you’ve got a signed employment contract in your hands.

Good luck!

You may also like:

• Solving the Mystery: Understand Why You Weren’t Chosen Despite a Successful Interview
• Should You Reach to the Hiring Manager Directly?
• Beyond Resuscitation: Fatal Signs in a Job Interview Indicating Your Job Prospects Have Flatlined

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