Is it a bad thing if an interview is short?

The Unexpected Benefit of a Short Interview: Don’t Panic, It Might Be Good News!

We’ve all been there. You meticulously prepare for an interview, researching the company, practicing answers to common questions, and visualizing a triumphant conversation lasting at least 45 minutes. Then, the interview wraps up in what feels like a blink of an eye. Panic sets in. Did you fumble a crucial question? Did they instantly recognize you were unqualified? While it’s natural to feel worried, a shorter-than-expected interview isn’t always a bad sign. In fact, it could even be a positive indicator.

The key is to reframe your perception. We often equate length with value, assuming a long interview means the panel is deeply engaged and considering you seriously. However, efficiency is a valued trait in any professional setting, and sometimes, a short interview signifies just that – the interviewers were able to quickly and effectively gather the information they needed to make a decision.

Think about it: a skilled interviewer knows how to extract key insights swiftly. They might have already formed a strong positive impression based on your resume, cover letter, and early answers. If you presented yourself clearly and confidently, demonstrating a strong understanding of the role and the company, the panel may have quickly determined you were a suitable candidate.

Furthermore, a shortened interview can indicate a level of shared understanding amongst the interviewers. If they are all on the same page regarding your qualifications and suitability, there’s no need for protracted questioning or extended deliberation. A unified front often translates to a quick decision, and that decision could very well be in your favor.

Instead of immediately jumping to negative conclusions, consider the following:

• How well did you answer the questions? Did you provide clear, concise, and relevant responses? Did you effectively communicate your skills and experience?
• Was there good rapport? Even in a short interview, did you feel a connection with the interviewers? Did you sense positive engagement?
• Did you thoroughly research the company and role beforehand? Being prepared demonstrates your genuine interest and allows you to answer questions more efficiently.

Of course, a drastically short interview (think less than 15 minutes) could indeed be a cause for concern. But if the interview felt productive and you believe you presented yourself well, resist the urge to immediately assume the worst.

The next time you find yourself leaving an interview sooner than anticipated, take a deep breath. A short interview isn’t necessarily detrimental. It might just mean you impressed them quickly and efficiently, leaving the panel confident in their evaluation. So, instead of dwelling on the duration, focus on the quality of your performance and remain optimistic. You might just be surprised by the positive outcome.