What it might mean if an interview ends early
You’re in an interview, answering questions well, sharing relevant experiences, even getting a smile from the interviewer. Then, suddenly: “Thanks for your time — we’ll be in touch.”
A short interview can feel worrying, but it isn’t always bad news. Here’s what to know.
Average Interview Length
There’s no set standard:
- Phone/video: 30–90 minutes
- In-person: 45–90 minutes (sometimes as short as 30 minutes)
A brief interview can simply mean the interviewer already has the information they need to decide on next steps.
Why Interviews Get Cut Short
- They’ve heard enough — Your answers ticked all the boxes.
- Type of interviewer — HR may only confirm your basic fit; hiring managers or recruiters may save deeper questions for later stages.
- Different assessment stages — Skills tests, group interviews, or follow-ups may be scheduled separately.
Quality Over Quantity
More talking isn’t always better. Prepare clear talking points that highlight your best skills and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep answers focused and relevant.
Signs It Went Well
- Positive body language and eye contact
- Engaged conversation that flows naturally
- Detailed discussion about the role or company
- Mention of next steps or another meeting
Signs It May Have Gone Poorly
- Minimal eye contact or engagement
- Short, cool responses
- No talk of next steps
- Distracted or rushed behaviour
One or two negative signs alone don’t confirm a bad outcome — there may be unrelated reasons for a short interview.
How to Handle a Short Interview
- Keep confident body language
- Research the role so you can tailor answers
- Listen actively and respond to what matters most to them
- Follow up with a thank-you email and, if appropriate, ask for feedback
Bottom line: A short interview doesn’t automatically mean rejection. Focus on making your answers high-quality, relevant, and concise – that’s what leaves a lasting impression