5 Signs Your Interviewing Skills Need Help

As one of the leading employment agencies in Kansas City, Morgan Hunter knows a job interview is your shot to show an employer you’re the right pick for the job. However, if you’re not getting any offers and achieving job search success, it could because your interview skills need some work. How can you tell? Here’s a look at five signs you need to polish your interviewing abilities:

Sign #1: The hiring manager’s body language is negative.

Some signs of negative body language include crossing their arms, not making eye contact, not smiling at all, or looking at their watch regularly. These behaviors could mean that they’re not all that impressed or interested in you as a candidate. If this seems to be the case, then you need to get their attention.

One way to do that is by leaning forward and speaking enthusiastically about why you’re a good fit for the job and excited about the opportunity. Another way is to try and connect with them on a more personal level. For instance, if you see a photo of their dog on their desk – and you’re a fellow animal lover – inquire about their pet.

Sign #2: They are distracted.

When a hiring manager is texting or answering emails during your job interview, it’s a sign they’re not that interested in what you’re saying. Try to offer more engaging answers or start asking them questions about the job and the company. However, if their behavior continues, you have to ask yourself whether you really want to work for someone who acts so unprofessionally.

Sign #3: They end the interview abruptly.  

If the interview gets cut short unexpectedly, after you’ve only been there a few minutes, then it’s a good indication you’re not going to get the offer. The situation may be due to some work-related emergency; but if it’s not, then it’s likely due to the fact that the hiring manager doesn’t think you’re a good fit for the job.

To avoid this in the future, make sure you review the job description requirements and determine what key areas and accomplishments in your background demonstrate you’re a fit for the position. Then promote these throughout your interview.

Sign #4: They don’t talk about next steps in the hiring process.

When you have a shot at the job, the hiring manager will typically ask about your availability or talk about next steps in the process. If they don’t, though, it could be a sign you bombed the interview. If they don’t bring it up, then go ahead and ask the hiring manager what the next steps are in the process. Even if you don’t get the job, at least you’re not in the dark about what to expect.

Sign #5: They tell you they’re still looking at other candidates.

In most cases, that phrase is the kiss of death for a job candidate. If a hiring manager is truly interested in you, they’ll let you know outright.

Do you need help boosting your interview skills – and finding your next great job? Call Morgan Hunter. As one of the leading employment agencies in Kansas City, we’ve helped thousands of job seekers find great opportunities…and we can help you too by giving you access to the information, tips, advice and connections you need to land your next job.

Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more.