If you’re in the middle of a job interview and the interviewer seems disinterested, it can be a major confidence-killer. After all, you’ve prepared for this interview, you’re qualified for the job, and you’re eager to make a good impression. But when the interviewer seems bored or uninterested, it can be hard to stay positive and motivated.
Don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to try to turn the situation around.
How to Tell if the Interviewer is Disinterested
Here are some signs that the interviewer may be disinterested:
- They make little or no eye contact.
- They answer their phone or check their email during the interview.
- They give short, one-word answers.
- They don’t ask you any questions.
- They seem distracted or bored.
What to Do if the Interviewer is Disinterested
If you think the interviewer is disinterested, don’t panic. Instead, try to do the following:
- Stay positive. It’s important to stay positive and upbeat, even if the interviewer seems disinterested. Remember, you’re still in the running for the job, and you have something to offer.
- Be prepared. The best way to show the interviewer that you’re interested in the job is to be prepared. Do your research on the company and the position, and come to the interview with questions.
- Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be yourself, and let your personality shine through. The interviewer will be more likely to be interested in you if they can see the real you.
- Ask questions. One of the best ways to show the interviewer that you’re engaged in the conversation is to ask questions. Ask about the company, the position, and the interviewer’s own experiences.
- Follow up. After the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer. Thank them for their time, and reiterate your interest in the job.
Why is the Interviewer Disinterested?
There are a number of reasons why an interviewer may seem disinterested. Here are a few possibilities:
- They’re not interested in your qualifications.
- They’re not interested in the job.
- They’re having a bad day.
- They’re not good at interviewing.
What NOT to Do if the Interviewer is Disinterested
Here are some things you should NOT do if the interviewer is disinterested:
- Don’t get discouraged. It’s important to stay positive and upbeat, even if the interviewer seems disinterested. Remember, you’re still in the running for the job, and you have something to offer.
- Don’t be rude. It’s never a good idea to be rude to an interviewer, even if they seem disinterested. Be polite and respectful, and do your best to answer their questions.
- Don’t give up. Don’t give up on the interview, even if the interviewer seems disinterested. Continue to answer their questions and ask questions of your own. You may be able to turn the situation around.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if the interviewer is checking their phone or email during the interview?
A: This is a sign of disrespect, and it’s important to address it. Politely ask the interviewer if they could please put their phone or email away. If they refuse, you may want to end the interview.
Q: What should I do if the interviewer is giving me short, one-word answers?
A: This could be a sign that the interviewer is not interested in what you have to say. Try to ask more open-ended questions, and provide more detail in your answers.
Q: What should I do if the interviewer is not asking me any questions?
A: This could be a sign that the interviewer is not interested in you. Try to ask questions of your own, and share your thoughts and experiences.
Q: What should I do if the interviewer seems distracted or bored?
A: This could be a sign that the interviewer is not interested in you. Try to engage the interviewer in conversation, and ask questions that show you are interested in the job.