When candidates walk into an interview, they’re often focused on impressing the hiring manager with their skills and experience. But what many don’t realize is that their interview behavior can reveal far more than just their qualifications—it offers a glimpse into how they’ll perform on the job.

From energy levels to communication style, the way someone interviews often mirrors how they’ll behave in a professional setting. If you’re a hiring manager, paying attention to these cues can help you make better hiring decisions. And if you’re a candidate, being mindful of how you present yourself can set you apart from the competition.

Energy Levels in an Interview Reflect Workplace Behavior

One of the most telling aspects of an interview is a candidate’s energy level. If they come across as enthusiastic, engaged, and eager to participate in the conversation, chances are they’ll bring that same energy to the workplace.

High-energy candidates tend to be:

• Proactive and motivated
• Eager to collaborate with teams
• Quick to adapt to new challenges
• Engaged in their work and willing to go the extra mile

On the other hand, if a candidate seems low-energy, unenthusiastic, or disengaged, it could indicate a lack of passion for the role—or worse, a disengaged attitude that will carry over into their daily responsibilities. While nerves can play a role in an interview, a candidate who struggles to show enthusiasm may not be the best cultural fit for a dynamic, fast-paced workplace.

Communication Style: A Window Into Work Ethic

How a candidate communicates during an interview can also provide insight into their work habits. Clear, concise, and confident responses suggest strong organizational skills and the ability to think on their feet—traits that are essential for most roles.

Pay attention to:

• How well they articulate their thoughts – Are they able to answer questions directly and thoughtfully?
• Their listening skills – Do they actively listen and respond appropriately, or do they interrupt or go off-topic?
• Their ability to build rapport – Strong interpersonal skills in an interview often translate to effective teamwork and collaboration in the workplace.

Candidates who struggle to communicate clearly or seem unprepared may have similar issues when working with clients, colleagues, or leadership.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving Skills Show Up Early

An interview isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about handling curveballs. How a candidate responds to unexpected or challenging questions can indicate their ability to think critically and adapt under pressure.

For example, if a candidate is asked about a past failure and responds defensively or struggles to take accountability, it may signal challenges with receiving feedback or problem-solving in the workplace. On the other hand, a candidate who embraces the question, reflects on their experience, and shares what they learned is likely to be more adaptable and growth-oriented.

Nonverbal Cues Matter

Beyond words, body language can also reveal a lot about a candidate’s confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism.

Look for:

• Eye contact and engagement – A candidate who maintains eye contact and actively participates in the conversation is likely to be more engaged in their work.
• Posture and gestures – Confident, open body language often indicates a positive attitude and readiness to contribute.
• Punctuality and preparedness – Arriving on time and being well-prepared speaks volumes about a candidate’s reliability and professionalism.

If a candidate appears disinterested, distracted, or unprepared, it may be a red flag about their overall commitment and work ethic.

Hiring the Right Candidate: Beyond the Resume

While resumes and qualifications are important, how a candidate presents themselves in an interview is just as crucial in predicting their success in a role. Companies should look beyond the technical skills and focus on the intangibles—energy, communication, adaptability, and engagement—when making hiring decisions.

For candidates, being aware of how they come across in an interview can make all the difference. Demonstrating enthusiasm, clear communication, and professionalism will not only leave a strong impression but also signal that they’ll be a valuable addition to the team.

Work with Houston’s Top Staffing Agency

At Murray Resources, we specialize in finding top talent that fits seamlessly into your company’s culture and needs. Whether you’re looking for high-energy professionals or detail-oriented team members, we can help you identify the right candidates based on both their skills and interview performance. Contact us today to find the perfect addition to your team!