8 reasons why big companies may reject you in an interview. #2 and #7 are weird, say netizens
hiring managers cite for turning down candidates, revealing how subjective bias can often cloud recruitment decisions. The Reddit post explained that the user’s cousin, a hiring manager at a large company, disclosed some peculiar factors influencing rejection. These factors, which go beyond the candidate's skills or experience, range from appearance to social behavior. One reason mentioned was being “overly confident,” while another claimed that candidates who were “too attractive” could be rejected for potentially being a distraction in the workplace.
Additional reasons on the list included inappropriate interview attire, projecting desperation, smiling too much, and using excessive filler words. Even details like weak handshakes or failing to ask the right questions during interviews were cited as grounds for rejection. Interestingly, the reasons seemed more focused on subjective impressions than measurable competence.
What netizens said
The post sparked debate online, with many users expressing disbelief at how personal biases shape hiring decisions. Some criticized the trivial nature of these criteria, suggesting that companies are more interested in hiring based on “vibes” rather than professionalism. Others pointed out the irony—candidates are expected to be perfect, but the criteria for perfection remain unclear and unspoken.
One commenter humorously remarked that a handshake with the wrong amount of pressure could ruin an
