How can you tell if an interview went well?

If you leave an interview and aren’t sure how well you did, take a look at these points below to determine whether or not you aced it.

1. The interview runs longer than planned
The interview schedule is normally a tight fit with candidates slotted in between existing meetings and other commitments.

If an interview runs over by more than a few minutes, this indicates the interviewer liked what they heard and wanted to invest more time with you.

2. You feel rapport with the interviewer
If it feels as though the interviewer could be an old friend and the conversation flows smoothly, this is a clear sign the job interview is going well.

Not sure whether you’ve developed a rapport or not? Evaluate your interviewer’s body language. If they are smiling, leaning forward and making eye contact, these are all signs that the interviewer is engaged and interested in you and in what you are saying.

3. You’re asked about other job interviews
When interviewers ask whether you’re interviewing for jobs elsewhere, they’re trying to gauge how in demand you are. This determines how quickly they need to move to get you to the next stage of the hiring process.

4. You’re invited to meet potential colleagues or other decision-makers
You know an interview is going well when the interviewer starts introducing you to people who weren’t on the schedule. At this point, you’re being evaluated as a potential colleague. Be friendly to everyone you meet so that you make a great first impression with them as well.

Also use the opportunity to get a better sense of what the corporate culture is like. Are these people who you could imagine yourself working with each day?

5. The interviewer invites you to call or email with questions
Handing out a business card can be a good sign, but for some companies, it’s standard. Pay attention to what the interviewer says when handing you a card.

“Here’s my direct line and email address; don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions”, for example, likely means you’re on track for a second interview.

6. You’re asked for references
If this happens in your first interview, it means the company is seriously impressed and looking to fast-track the process.

So before interviewing, be sure you’ve lined up a couple of references who can vouch for your experience. Hopefully positive!

To summarise, these tips will help you gauge how an interview may have gone but the best way to know is to always ask for feedback.