The glass of water test in interviews

Recruitment processes provide countless opportunities to assess potential hires, sometimes in unexpected ways. One classic example from the days when interviews were mostly in-person is the glass of water test: you offer a glass of water at the start of the meeting. What happens to it after the interview ends? Do they leave it for someone else to clear? Do they take a moment to handle it themselves? It may seem trivial, but these small gestures can reveal a lot about someone’s thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

Similarly, how a candidate treats the assistant who greets them or asks them to wait speaks volumes about their respect for others. These small, often overlooked moments can provide valuable insights into their character.

Now that many interviews take place virtually, assessing a candidate's savoir-être (social etiquette) and savoir-vivre (general behaviour) can be more challenging. But it's still possible if you know where to look.

Consider these cues in virtual interviews:

• Are they punctual? Do they arrive a few minutes early, or are you waiting for them?

• Is their camera on?

• Can they make light, appropriate small talk, or do they jump straight into business?

• Are they dressed appropriately for your industry culture?

• Do they take notes when you speak?

• Do they listen for listening, not for answering, or interrupt and dominate the conversation?

• Are they focused and on point, or do they frequently stray off-topic?

These behaviours may not directly reflect their technical skills, but they reveal how they might integrate into your team, communicate, and collaborate - qualities that are just as crucial for long-term success.

Setting Your Standards

The cues you prioritise will depend on your industry and company culture. For instance, a formal suit might be overkill for a startup, but a lack of preparation - like not researching your company or having no questions to ask - is a universal red flag. With the wealth of information available, there’s little excuse for such oversights.

Remember, Interviews Are Two-Way Streets

While you’re assessing the candidate, they’re observing you, too. How do you welcome them? Are you late or unprepared? Are you engaged and curious? Your behaviour reflects your team culture and sets the tone for what they can expect from your company.

Turning off your camera during a virtual interview can come across as dismissive. They’re vulnerable - you aren’t.

If a manager or HR representative models poor behaviour - like lateness or disinterest - it sends a clear message about what the company tolerates and values. Candidates notice, and it could influence whether they see themselves thriving in your environment.

Beyond the Interview

The evaluation doesn’t end with the final handshake or the closing of a virtual call. Follow-up behaviours are just as telling. Does the candidate send a thank-you email? Do you respond? Is your feedback timely? These small interactions, while not definitive indicators of performance, provide a window into the culture and mutual expectations you can anticipate.

Ultimately, interviews aren’t just about finding the most qualified person for the job - they’re about identifying someone who will thrive in your environment and align with your values. The same is true for candidates evaluating your company.

What are the small signs you notice during interviews, and what do they reveal about your future hires - and your organisation?