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How do you know if your interview went well
6 min read | Hays Experts | Article | | Interview advice
Waiting for an answer after a job interview can be nerve-racking. While you wait, find out what six signs could be pointing towards a successful interview.
Walking out of an interview can be quite a relief after all the thorough preparation, nervous build-up, and even practising in the mirror! However, the toughest part is often when you start to wonder how the meeting actually went. Reflecting on how you answered every single question could be just as stressful as preparing. It’s worth having a checklist at hand for when your interview is over.
While we can’t read the interviewer’s mind and always know exactly what they’re looking for in a candidate, there are some clear signs that point towards the positive. If you built a good rapport, were introduced to some of the team, and received excellent feedback from the recruiter, there’s a high chance you’ve done well.
We’ve collated a detailed list below of all the possible signs that could indicate a successful interview.
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Your recruiter may have already told you how long the interview should have lasted. Going over that time period is usually considered a good omen. Remember that your hiring manager’s time is valuable, especially when they are in the process of recruiting. So the fact that they’ve dedicated their time to learning more about you shows that they are clearly interested.
Consider if you felt like you were having a natural conversation rather than presenting a rehearsed speech when communicating your answers. Successfully building a good rapport with your potential employer demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and makes it easier for them to envision how you would fit in with the rest of the team.
You can take it as a good sign if the interviewer refers to you as “you” rather than “the successful candidate” when discussing the role. For example, saying “the successful candidate would be expected to…” implies some distance; whereas referring to when “you” are in the role is much warmer and engaged. See this as a sign that they are already imagining you at the company based on how you’ve come across.
Candidates always consider their own body language and how to present themselves, but have you ever noticed your interviewer’s body language? This can tend to give away an awful lot about the feel of the meeting. Movements including leaning forwards, smiling, nodding in agreement or uncrossed arms are all a sign that the hiring manager is comfortable with you.
If your potential employer has a good feeling about you, you most likely will be introduced to other people in the business. It is a good sign if you were:
Take into account that your hiring manager will have done this consciously. They will know that giving you an introduction to additional members of their team demonstrates that they have confidence in you.
Closing questions are just as beneficial to the employer as they are the candidate. Look out for these types of questions towards the end:
Also bear in mind that as the conversation comes to a close, you may be informed of what the next stage would be (i.e. the second interview or when you will hear back). This instantly shows that you are in with a chance and your hiring manager does not want you to lose interest.
When speaking to your recruiter afterwards, listen carefully to any feedback they give you. Receiving overall positive feedback from them implies that, while it may not be in the bag, your chances are still high.
While nothing is ever set in stone until you have a contract, you may find that the above signs show you did something right and were a strong contender. Find out from your recruiter what went well and what you can improve on for any future interviews, and these positive signs should soon point towards a solid offer.
You can also take a look at our career advice hub, where you will find more top tips for job searching and interviews, as well as how to make an impression in your new job.
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Established in 1968, Hays brings almost six decades of experience in helping professionals discover what’s next in their careers. With a global network of over 10,000 recruitment experts – including 1,800 in the UK&I – we operate across 31 countries and 21 specialisms to offer personalised guidance, career advice, and access to opportunities that match your skills and ambitions. Whether you're exploring your next role or planning a long-term move, we’re committed to supporting your journey every step of the way.