Five signs your job interview is going badly (and how to fix it)
Job interviews can feel as high-stakes as performing the lead role in Shakespeare, where even the tiniest slip-up can make a difference.
It’s well known that interviewers form opinions on candidates fast – in fact, 51% of hiring managers say they know in the first five minutes whether a candidate is right for the job.
But here’s the good news: if you can spot the warning signs early, you have time to course-correct. And to help you, Tim Brown, the founder of Hook Agency, reveals the five red flags that indicate your interview is going badly – and provides expert strategies to turn the situation around in real-time.
1) The interviewer’s eyebrows are doing the talking
If the interviewer raises an eyebrow, tilts their head, or squints at you like they’re solving a math problem, it could mean your answers aren’t landing well. They might not fully understand your point, or worse, they could be questioning the accuracy of what you’re saying.
How to fix it
If you catch one of these micro-expressions, don’t power through blindly – address it head-on. Try saying: Would you like me to clarify that point? or Let me rephrase that to make sure I’m answering your question properly. This signals self-awareness and shows you can adjust your response to fit their needs.
2) The questions suddenly get short and blunt
A good interview should feel like a conversation. If your interviewer shifts from open-ended to short, rapid-fire questions like When did you leave your last job? or What was your GPA? without much follow-up, it’s a sign they’re losing interest.
A shift to abrupt questioning generally means one of two things. Either they don’t think you’re the right fit and are looking to wrap things up, or your previous answers weren’t compelling enough, and they’re trying to extract more information quickly to determine whether you’re worth their time.
How to fix it
If you notice this shift, don’t panic. Instead, make your answers more engaging by connecting them directly to the role.
Try saying, That’s a great question. In my last role, I applied this skill in a way that really impacted the team, and I think it would be valuable here as well. This subtly shifts the focus back to why you’re a strong candidate and keeps the conversation flowing.
3) You’re getting zero follow-up questions
In a great interview, hiring managers will probe further into your answers – whether it’s asking for more detail, requesting an example, or connecting your response to the company’s goals. If they don’t do this, it could mean that they don’t find your responses interesting or relevant, or they’ve already made up their mind about you (and not in a good way).
How to fix it
If you notice that your interviewer isn’t digging deeper, don’t wait for them to ask follow-ups. Show them you can take the initiative by checking in.
Say something like, ‘Would you like me to elaborate on that?’ or ‘Does that align with what you’re looking for in this role?’ This shows that you want the conversation to be interactive and that you’re open to feedback – an important trait in any professional setting.
4) Their smile feels forced
People can fake enthusiasm, but body language rarely lies. If the interviewer’s smile looks polite but never quite reaches their eyes, or if they lean away, cross their arms, or barely nod as you speak, they may not be connecting with you.
How to fix it
If you’re dealing with cold or disinterested body language, you might need to tweak your own delivery. Try following Tim’s tips:
- Mirror Their Energy: If they’re a little more serious, match their professionalism instead of forcing a hyper-enthusiastic tone.
- Find Common Ground: Reference something they said earlier in the conversation (You mentioned the company is focused on innovation – can you tell me more about how this team contributes?).
- Lighten The Mood: If appropriate, inject a bit of natural humour or express genuine excitement about the role.
Small shifts in tone and subject can make a huge difference in recapturing someone’s attention. Shifting your approach also shows that you’re adaptable and sensitive to other people’s non-verbal communication.
5) They keep checking the time
If the interviewer glances at the clock, taps their pen, or speeds through the rest of the questions, you may not be holding their interest. This is a red flag that they’re mentally moving on from your conversation.
How to fix it
Instead of letting a hiring manager mentally exit the interview, bring them back in by refocusing on what matters. Try saying: I want to be mindful of time – are there any key skills or experiences you’d like me to highlight further? This demonstrates respect for their schedule while also giving you a last opportunity to showcase your strongest points.
Make sure you impress in your job interview
First impressions set the tone for the entire interview. Hiring managers form opinions fast – sometimes within the first 30 seconds – meaning confidence, clear communication, and genuine enthusiasm can often matter more than having ‘perfect’ answers.
To ace that first impression, walk in with good posture, give a firm handshake (if appropriate), and a smile. This signals confidence and sets a positive tone from the start. You should also pay attention to the interviewer’s communication style. If they’re formal, be polished and professional. If they’re more casual, mirror their approach.
If you do fumble a response, don’t panic. Instead, say, ‘Let me rephrase that for clarity’ or ‘That’s a great question – et me give you a more specific example.’
No matter how the interview goes, end with confidence. Thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and ask about the next steps. A strong close can sometimes help override any minor missteps earlier in the conversation.
Hook Agency provides digital marketing services like web design, SEO, and content marketing, designed specifically for small businesses and contractors. They specialise in building high-converting websites and boosting organic traffic to help clients grow their online presence. With a focus on industries such as roofing, construction, and home services, they work to deliver real, measurable results.
