8 Hidden Signs a Hiring Manager Is Impressed
Even When They Seem Disinterested
Ever left a job interview feeling defeated, only to receive an offer days later? You're not alone. Understanding the subtle signals that indicate a hiring manager's genuine interest can be challenging, but these insider tips from workplace experts will help you decode their behavior.
The Psychology Behind Hiring Manager Behavior
"Most interviewers are skilled at holding out judgment until they're relatively sure you're a good hire," explains Lynn Taylor, workplace expert and author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant." "It combines chess and poker; you don't know their next maneuver, and reading them is hard."
1. Extended Interview Duration Despite Cool Demeanor
A seemingly distant interviewer who keeps the conversation going for over an hour is likely very interested. Hiring managers value their time and won't extend interviews with candidates they've ruled out. Professional distance often serves as a negotiation strategy rather than an indicator of disinterest.
2. Deep-Dive Question Series
When interviewers bombard you with challenging questions, it's a positive sign. They're investing time to evaluate your potential fit for the role thoroughly. As Taylor notes, "Your hiring manager isn't creating a torture chamber – they're gathering comprehensive information about your capabilities."
3. Apparent Distraction During Your Responses
Counter-intuitively, if the interviewer seems less focused on your answers, they might mentally place you in the role. This behavior often indicates they're already envisioning you as part of their team.
4. Dynamic Behavioral Shifts
Watch for varying interviewer behavior – alternating between warmth and challenging questions. This pattern typically suggests active engagement in evaluating your full potential.
5. Scenario-Based Questions
Transitioning to hypothetical situations signals a deeper interest in your problem-solving approach and work style. These questions help hiring managers visualize your potential performance in the role.
6. Reference Discussion
When interviewers emphasize checking references, you've likely made their shortlist. This indicates they're moving from the evaluation to the verification phase.
7. Playful Challenging Questions
Notice the interviewer's body language when asking tough questions. A slight smile or engaged posture while posing challenging scenarios indicates their rooting for your success.
8. Handling Interruptions
You're likely a strong candidate if they take an urgent call but ask you to wait instead of ending the interview. Their commitment to continuing the conversation speaks volumes about their interest.
Key Takeaway
Remember that professional distance during interviews often masks genuine interest. As Taylor explains, "It's not like visiting a car showroom. Both parties want negotiating power, and showing too much enthusiasm too early can affect salary discussions."
Understanding these subtle indicators can help you maintain confidence during the interview process, even when facing a seemingly tough interviewer.
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Article by Eric Palmer - Chief Recruiter at MySalesRecruiter.co
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