Do people cry during interviews?

Yes, people sometimes cry during interviews, though it is relatively uncommon. Interviews can be high-pressure situations, and the stress of wanting to make a good impression or the emotions tied to discussing past experiences (like personal challenges or difficult job situations) can trigger tears.

Why People Cry in Interviews:

1. Stress and Anxiety: Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially if the job is highly desired or if the stakes feel particularly high for the candidate.
2. Discussing Personal or Emotional Topics: Behavioral interviews often ask about personal challenges, failures, or difficult situations. Reflecting on emotional experiences can sometimes lead to unexpected tears.
3. Unexpected Reactions: The candidate may not feel overwhelmed initially, but the intensity of the interview, combined with self-reflection and pressure, may bring out strong emotions.

What to Do if It Happens:

• For the Interviewer: Be compassionate and offer a moment for the candidate to collect themselves. Acknowledge the difficulty of the question and assure them that it's okay to take a minute.
• For the Candidate: If you feel tears coming on, take a deep breath, pause, and try to ground yourself. It’s okay to acknowledge your emotions briefly (e.g., "This is a bit emotional for me") and then move forward.

While crying during an interview is not ideal, it doesn’t necessarily hurt your chances if you regain composure and continue to focus on your qualifications and fit for the role. Interviewers generally appreciate authenticity and emotional intelligence when handled well.