Yusra3
VIP Contributor
Having an interview go poorly is disappointing but identifying signs it went awry can help you learn for next time. Look for these indicators:
1 - You couldn't answer key interview questions
Fumbling questions about your experience or skills may sink your chances. Brush up ahead of time on likely questions around your abilities.
2 - The interviewer seemed disengaged
Lack of eye contact, checking emails, giving short responses can signal disinterest or doubts on their end. This lackluster energy doesn't bode well.
3 - There was an awkward vibe
Struggles to keep conversation flowing smoothly, inappropriate remarks, or you just didn't click can contribute to an uncomfortable interview that hurts your chances.
4 - It was much shorter than expected
A very brief interview may mean the hiring manager already decided you weren't a fit and cut it short. Interviews less than 30 minutes long are often not a good sign.
5 - You arrived late
Arriving late creates a terrible first impression that can be difficult to overcome. Always plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
6 - There were long pauses between your responses
Frequent long pauses after being asked questions makes you appear unsure and can derail the conversation flow. Practice answering likely questions aloud to prevent this.
7 - You didn't prepare questions to ask them
Not arriving with thoughtful questions prepared gives the impression you lack genuine interest. Come ready with smart inquiries.
8 - Your portfolio or resume had mistakes
Typos, formatting issues or inaccurate information on any documents reflects poorly on your proficiency and attention to detail. Triple check.
9 - You dressed unprofessionally
Appearing too casual, revealing, sloppy or unkempt can make the wrong first impression. Follow up interviews present a chance to fix this.
10 - You focused heavily on compensation
Discussing salary and benefits prematurely or frequently steers the conversation away from your qualifications. Wait for them to bring it up.
11 - The interviewer had serious doubts on your skills fitting the role
This may come out directly during the interview. If substantial weaknesses were identified, your chances fade.
1 - You couldn't answer key interview questions
Fumbling questions about your experience or skills may sink your chances. Brush up ahead of time on likely questions around your abilities.
2 - The interviewer seemed disengaged
Lack of eye contact, checking emails, giving short responses can signal disinterest or doubts on their end. This lackluster energy doesn't bode well.
3 - There was an awkward vibe
Struggles to keep conversation flowing smoothly, inappropriate remarks, or you just didn't click can contribute to an uncomfortable interview that hurts your chances.
4 - It was much shorter than expected
A very brief interview may mean the hiring manager already decided you weren't a fit and cut it short. Interviews less than 30 minutes long are often not a good sign.
5 - You arrived late
Arriving late creates a terrible first impression that can be difficult to overcome. Always plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
6 - There were long pauses between your responses
Frequent long pauses after being asked questions makes you appear unsure and can derail the conversation flow. Practice answering likely questions aloud to prevent this.
7 - You didn't prepare questions to ask them
Not arriving with thoughtful questions prepared gives the impression you lack genuine interest. Come ready with smart inquiries.
8 - Your portfolio or resume had mistakes
Typos, formatting issues or inaccurate information on any documents reflects poorly on your proficiency and attention to detail. Triple check.
9 - You dressed unprofessionally
Appearing too casual, revealing, sloppy or unkempt can make the wrong first impression. Follow up interviews present a chance to fix this.
10 - You focused heavily on compensation
Discussing salary and benefits prematurely or frequently steers the conversation away from your qualifications. Wait for them to bring it up.
11 - The interviewer had serious doubts on your skills fitting the role
This may come out directly during the interview. If substantial weaknesses were identified, your chances fade.
