careers, skills Men shaking hands at an Interview, Image: Pexels
Job interviews can feel like high-stakes theatre—your moment to deliver a flawless performance, where even the smallest slip-up can shift the narrative.
First impressions are made at lightning speed, with 51% of hiring managers admitting they know within five minutes whether a candidate is the right fit.
But here’s the kicker: if you’re quick enough to spot the warning signs, you can still turn the situation around.
Tim Brown, founder of Hook Agency—a digital marketing powerhouse specialising in SEO, web design, and content strategy—shares the five telltale red flags that suggest your interview is veering off track, along with expert-backed fixes to keep you in the game.
If your interviewer raises a brow, squints, or tilts their head as if you’ve just quoted a conspiracy theory, it’s a sign your answer isn’t hitting the mark. Maybe they don’t fully grasp your point—or worse, they’re questioning its accuracy.
How To Fix It: Spot it early and take control. Instead of charging forward blindly, pause and ask, “Would you like me to clarify that?” or “Let me rephrase to make sure I’m answering your question properly.” This move signals self-awareness, adaptability, and the ability to tailor your responses in real time.
A seamless interview flows like a conversation. But if your interviewer abruptly shifts to rapid-fire, closed-ended questions— “When did you leave your last job?” “What was your GPA?”—without much follow-up, you’re in dangerous waters.
According to Tim, this change means one of two things: either they’ve already decided you’re not a fit and are wrapping things up, or your answers haven’t been compelling enough, and they’re digging for more substance.
How To Fix It: Revive their interest by making your answers sharper and more engaging.
Connect your experiences directly to the role: “That’s a great question. In my last position, I applied this skill in a way that made a real impact, and I’d love to bring that value here.”
This keeps the conversation flowing and refocuses their attention on what you bring to the table.
A great interviewer probes deeper, asks for examples, and connects your responses to their company’s needs. If that’s not happening, it’s a red flag—they either find your responses irrelevant or they’ve mentally moved on.
How To Fix It: If they’re not asking for more, offer it up yourself. “Would you like me to elaborate?” or “Does that align with what you’re looking for in this role?” demonstrates initiative and a desire for an interactive conversation—two highly desirable traits in any professional setting.
“People can fake enthusiasm, but body language rarely lies,” says Tim. If the interviewer’s smile doesn’t quite reach their eyes, if they lean away, cross their arms, or barely nod as you speak, they may not be connecting with you.
How To Fix It: Your delivery may need an adjustment. Here’s how to pivot:
“Small tweaks in tone and subject can completely shift the vibe,” says Tim. “It also proves that you’re adaptable and emotionally intelligent.”
If your interviewer glances at the clock, taps their pen, or speeds through questions, they’re mentally wrapping things up—before you’ve even had a chance to close strong.
How To Fix It: Re-engage them by refocusing on what matters. “I want to be mindful of your time—are there any key skills or experiences you’d like me to highlight further?” This respects their schedule while giving you one last shot to showcase your value.
“First impressions set the tone,” says Tim. “Hiring managers form opinions fast—sometimes within the first 30 seconds. Confidence, clear communication, and genuine enthusiasm often outweigh the ‘perfect’ answer.”
His pro tip: Walk in with good posture, a firm handshake (where appropriate), and a self-assured smile. Read the interviewer’s style—if they’re formal, be polished; if they’re more relaxed, match their energy.
And if you fumble a response? Don’t panic. Simply say, ‘Let me rephrase that for clarity’ or ‘That’s a great question—let me give you a more specific example.’”
And no matter how the interview goes, close strong. Thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm, and ask about next steps. A killer finish can sometimes override a few minor missteps.
Because at the end of the day, an interview isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about owning the room.
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