We all know waiting for a job offer can be painfully tedious but there are some employer behaviors that can be viewed as clear indicators that your job prospects may not look so good.

Did you know most recruiters are required to bring in a certain of number of applicants to interview for a job even when they already have a candidate selected for the job? Part of this practice has to do with a company’s equal employment opportunities fair employment laws compliant policies but i’m sure for job seekers like you and me this practice sounds like a disrespectful and a complete waste of time.

Being able to identify when a manager is “going through the motions” with you during the hiring process is crucial step towards understanding the company’s true intentions for calling you into the interview and will also help you set a more realistic expectation on getting hired for the job.

Here’s a couple of common red flags to watch out for:

Vague Next Steps - if you feel the interview is being rushed or the manager uses phrases like “We’ll let you know”, you’re over-qualified, or “We’re still interviewing other candidates” then chances are you’re not being seriously being considered for the job. Managers will always be straight forwards and go out of their way to clearly outline and solidify the next step of the hiring process before you leave the room or immediately after the interview.

Extended Silence - a manager’s failure to respond to your emails and messages without an explanation is another behaviors that you’re probably not on their list of potential new hires. Hiring in many ways is allot like dating. Don’t be fooled by well intended empty phrases like “you’re a perfect fit” or “you’re exactly what we’re looking for”. An attractive candidate is just that… Attractive! Active engagement and follow-up commitments are key component of the courting process.

If you ever feel that you’ve been duped into one of these interviews try not to take it personal. Just remember that it’s part of the hiring process we all go through and not an experience unique to you. Stay Positive, re-focus your attention on your career goals and keep it moving forward.