By: Trends DeskNew Delhi | September 17, 2025 09:48 AM IST 2 min readTo stand out, candidates should drop vague buzzwords and instead share clear, detailed examples of what they have done and how they have added value, the CEO said. (Representative image/Pexels)Eli Rubel, CEO of Colorado-based companies Profit Labs and SurveyGate, has spent the last decade building businesses. During this time, he has interviewed over 500 candidates and hired more than 100. In a recent conversation with CNBC Make It, Rubel revealed three subtle red flags he has learned to watch for in interviews.One of the first signs, Rubel shared, is tardiness, even by a minute. “Emergencies happen,” he acknowledged, “but most of the time, it signals poor preparation.” According to the CEO, in high-pressure agency environments, being on time isn’t just about courtesy. It is a preview of how a candidate might handle client meetings, tight deadlines, and collaborative work. He further recommended treating interviews like critical client calls.Another red flag appears when candidates give polished answers that lack substance. Rubel remembers interviews where responses “sounded smart” but didn’t include any data, stories, or experience. “In the age of AI,” he explained, “leaders want proof you have solved problems — not just that you can talk about them.”To stand out, candidates should drop vague buzzwords and instead share clear, detailed examples of what they have done and how they have added value, Ruben said.Also Read | ‘None of us are middle class’: Edelweiss CEO says social media makes even those with Rs 70 lakh income face financial anxietyEnergy is the third and often most overlooked indicator. “The interview is your best-case performance,” Rubel said. “If you show up flat, it won’t get better on the job.” Especially in client-facing roles, showing genuine enthusiasm and presence is critical. He advised candidates to use their nerves to fuel engagement, ask thoughtful questions, and not be afraid to let their personality shine through.Rubel also highlighted that interviews go far beyond resumes and qualifications, and provide a glimpse into how someone will show up day after day. “Help them imagine what a great choice you would be,” he advised candidates.© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:jobssocial media virals