Research Uncovers the Surprising Key to Acing Job Interviews: Confidence and Preparation

Scientists Reveal the Best Time to Ace a Job Interview
By Xantha Leatham, Executive Science Editor

Timing could be the key to landing your dream job, according to new research. A study analyzing university oral exams found that students were most likely to pass when assessed around midday—a pattern experts say might also apply to job interviews.

The Study: Peak Performance at Noon

Researchers from the University of Messina and the University of Bologna analyzed over 100,000 oral exams in Italy, revealing a striking trend: passing rates followed a bell curve, peaking at noon (57%) and dropping in the early morning or late afternoon. Students assessed at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. had similar success rates, but those evaluated at 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. faced lower odds.

Passing rates peak around noon, creating a "sweet spot" for evaluations.

Professor Carmelo Mario Vicario, lead author, explained, “Academic assessments vary systematically across the day, with a clear midday peak. This pattern could extend to job interviews or any evaluative process.”

Why Timing Matters

The findings align with studies on cognitive performance, which often peaks in late morning before declining post-lunch. Fatigue, hunger, or decision fatigue among evaluators might explain the dip in afternoon scores. “Biological rhythms subtly shape high-stakes evaluations,” noted co-author Alessio Avenanti.

Scheduling interviews around midday may boost your chances, researchers suggest.

Implications for Job Seekers

While the study focused on exams, the stakes in job interviews are similarly high. Candidates may perform better when both they and interviewers are alert and focused. “Energy levels and focus naturally wane over the day,” the team noted.

Broader Applications

The research echoes findings from other fields. Judges, for example, are more likely to rule favorably after meal breaks. For job seekers, the lesson is clear: if possible, aim for interview slots between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Oral exams in Italy—stressful, unpredictable, and influential in academic success.

Limitations and Future Research

While the exact cause of the trend remains unclear, the team plans to explore whether hiring decisions follow similar rhythms. “Fairness in evaluations might fluctuate with time of day,” Vicario added.

The Takeaway
Next time you schedule an interview, consider the clock—it might just be your secret weapon.

Published in Frontiers in Psychology. For more on workplace trends, see our report: Will Your Job Be Taken by a Robot?

Images: Shutterstock, Daily Mail charts.

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