By Henry Waiting for a response after a job interview can feel like a never-ending waiting game. You replay every moment in your mind, wondering if that awkward silence or your answer to “Where do you see yourself in five years?” sealed your fate. Sometimes the signs that you won’t get the job are glaringly obvious—like receiving a vague follow-up email stating they’re “still reviewing candidates” with no clear next steps. Other times, however, the clues are more subtle, hidden in the things interviewers say during or after the interview.
In this article, we’ll break down five common phrases interviewers use that might signal you won’t be getting the job offer—and what they actually mean. By understanding these phrases, you can make more informed decisions about where to focus your job search next.
1. “We’re Looking for Someone with More Experience”
One of the most common phrases that can signal a rejection is when the interviewer mentions that they are looking for someone with “more experience.” This might happen during the interview or in a follow-up email. While it’s not always a direct dismissal, it’s often a polite way of saying you aren’t quite the right fit for the position at the current moment.
What it means: When an interviewer says they need someone with more experience, it’s typically because they feel you might not be ready to handle the level of responsibility or complexity the role requires. They might think you have the skills, but not the depth of experience needed for the job.
What to do: Don’t be discouraged. This feedback provides an opportunity to reflect on how you can improve your experience for future roles. Ask for constructive feedback and use that information to tailor your next application to roles that align better with your skill set and level of experience.
2. “We’re Still Interviewing Other Candidates”
If an interviewer mentions that they are still interviewing other candidates or that the process is ongoing, this can be a sign that they are still evaluating their options. While it’s not necessarily a rejection, it’s an indication that they are not fully committed to you as the chosen candidate.
What it means: This phrase suggests that although they may be considering you, they’re also exploring other candidates. It’s a sign that you’re not yet the top contender for the role, and the employer may still be uncertain about the best fit.
What to do: Stay proactive. Don’t stop your job search just because you hear this phrase. Keep applying to other positions and continue networking. Send a follow-up email to reiterate your interest and enthusiasm for the position—this can sometimes keep you in the running, or at least provide some clarity on the next steps.
3. “We’re Just Getting Started with Our Search”
It’s common for interviewers to say they’re “just getting started” with their search. This often happens early in the hiring process when they’re still figuring out exactly what they need or haven’t interviewed enough candidates yet to make a decision.
What it means: This phrase generally indicates that the employer is not yet in a hurry to make a decision and might still be evaluating multiple candidates. While it’s not a direct no, it suggests that you’re not the only candidate being considered, and the process could take longer than expected.
What to do: Patience is key. Use this as an opportunity to check in with the interviewer politely, expressing your continued interest in the role. Meanwhile, keep applying for other positions to ensure you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.
4. “I’ll Let You Know What Happens After We Meet with the Team”
When an interviewer says, “I’ll let you know what happens after we meet with the team,” this can be a sign that they’re not fully convinced about you as a candidate. While it’s a softer way of saying “We need more time,” it might also indicate that the decision isn’t entirely in the interviewer’s hands, or that they need the team’s feedback before moving forward.
What it means: This phrase suggests that the interviewer is still gathering input from other stakeholders, and they might not be completely sold on you yet. It could also mean that they are delaying the decision to avoid giving an outright rejection.
What to do: Don’t read too much into this. Politely follow up with a thank-you email, express your continued enthusiasm for the role, and ask if there’s anything else they need from you. Giving the impression that you’re confident yet patient can help you maintain a positive impression.
5. “We’re Looking for Someone Who Will Fit into Our Company Culture”
The phrase “We’re looking for someone who will fit into our company culture” is a common one in many interviews. While culture fit is important for any company, when this phrase is used, it’s often a sign that the interviewer may not see you as a good match for their team’s dynamics.
What it means: This can be a subtle way of saying that, while your skills and experience may be impressive, the interviewer doesn’t believe you align with the company’s values, working style, or the team’s culture.
What to do: If you believe you are a good cultural fit but this phrase has been used, consider addressing it in a follow-up email. Briefly explain how your values align with the company’s and offer examples of how you could contribute to a positive team environment. However, if you sense a significant cultural mismatch, it may be best to move on and find a role where you feel more aligned with the company’s culture.
Beyond Words: Subtle Signs You’re Not the Top Candidate
In addition to these phrases, subtle signs during the interview can also give you an indication of how things are going. If the interviewer seems distracted, disinterested, or rushes through the interview, it might be a signal that you are not the top candidate. Additionally, if they don’t ask many follow-up questions or don’t seem engaged, it can be an indication that they’re not entirely sold on you.
If they keep the conversation vague, don’t provide specifics about the role, or avoid discussing next steps, these could all point to the fact that they’re already leaning toward someone else.
Think You Won’t Get the Job? Here’s What to Do
If you’re starting to sense that you may not be getting the offer, don’t panic. There are still steps you can take to keep your job search moving forward:
Keep Applying: Don’t stop your job search just because one interview didn’t go as well as you’d hoped. Keep applying for other roles that align with your skills and experience.
Network: Networking is essential for finding opportunities that may not be publicly listed. Connect with people in your field, attend events, and stay active on platforms like LinkedIn.
Stay Positive: A rejection doesn’t define your worth. Every interview is a learning opportunity, and each step gets you closer to the right fit.
Seek Feedback: If possible, ask the interviewer for feedback. This can help you improve and adjust your approach for future interviews.
Conclusion
Interviews are a crucial part of the job search process, but they can also be filled with uncertainty. Recognizing the signs that you may not be getting the offer can help you manage your expectations and move on quickly to other opportunities. If you hear any of the phrases mentioned above, use them as an opportunity to adjust your approach, improve your skills, and continue applying for positions that are the right fit for you. Remember, the right opportunity is out there, and persistence is key to landing your dream job.