For many, the interview is the single most stressful part
of the job search process. Any number of things can go wrong,
and a big part of being successful is avoiding simple mistakes.
Here's a top ten list of the most common interview mistakes:
| 1. |
Arriving
late |
Don't give a weak first
impression even before the start of the interview. Lateness
shows lack of respect and poor time management skills.
After scheduling the interview, find out the distance
and directions to the physical location. Don't assume
you "know how much time it takes". Being late
to an interview adds stress…and interviewing is
already stressful enough. |
| 2. |
Under-dressing |
Dress for success is a common phrase, but a lot of candidates
do not take it seriously. Unless the company you are interviewing
with instructs you otherwise, wear business professional
clothing. Remember that everything - your appearance,
your tone of voice, your conduct - contributes to the
impression (positive or negative) that you make. Be presentable
- wear a pressed shirt, a tie and polished shoes. |
| 3. |
Not being prepared |
This interview could be a significant milestone in your
career. Re-read the relevant version of your CV and the
job advert, just before the interview. You'd be surprised
how many people can't remember what they wrote on their
CV.
Also, be familiar with the job description so you can
draw on your experiences, talents, strengths and abilities
to connect with the company needs. Highlight how you're
suited to that particular job.
Not to forget, make sure you've brought with you everything
you were asked for. This includes all of your essential
educational certificates as well as personal portfolio
(if any). |
| 4. |
Failure to research
the company |
As a general rule, the more famous the brand, the
more they will expect you to have done your homework.
Researching the company shows you're serious about the
job. Do your homework before the interview; find out
about the company's past, vision, competitors, achievements,
numbers, etc. Some companies even have their candidate
expectations somewhere on their website.
Study all these information in detail. Nothing communicates
disinterest like a candidate who hasn't bothered to
do pre-interview research. On the flip side, the quickest
way to a good impression is to demonstrate your interest
with a few well thought out questions that reflect your
knowledge of the organization. |
| 5. |
Lying |
Be yourself and be honest! Don't pretend to understand
a question or train of thought if you don't. The interviewer
will pick up on this. If you don't know an answer, say
so. Relax and be yourself. |
| 6. |
Criticizing your
past boss or coworkers |
The fastest way to talk yourself out of a new job
is to say negative things. You should never talk negatively
about your current position, the industry, people that
you’ve work with and previous nightmare dilemmas.
Interviewers are interested more in how you overcome
these challenges. Anything negative you say about any
topic will reflect negatively on you. If there is something
you need to express that is negative, say it in positive
way. |
| 7. |
Lack of confidence
and enthusiasm |
Lack of confidence can be a big turn off. If you appear
too nervous, the interviewer will think that you're not
confident enough to do the job. If you are serious about
getting the job, you’ll need to sell yourself as
a representative of the company. Show yourself in a way
they would feel proud of working with.
Make the employer feel that you are excited and interested
in the job opportunity rather than just coming to the
interview to see what's out there.
Maintain eye contact, greet the interviewer with a smile
and a firm handshake (not too weak, not too strong), and
show common courtesy. Don't be afraid to display your
passion for the job/industry and to show confidence. |
| 8. |
Not listening |
You must read the interviewer’s gestures and tones
and respond accordingly. Focus on the question that is
being asked and don't try to anticipate the next one.
It's OK to pause and collect your thoughts before answering
a question. Give a targeted response to what the interviewer
has asked. Be clear, concise and to the point. Don’t
expand in endless explanations. |
| 9. |
Not asking meaningful
questions |
You don't have to talk at all times in the interview.
It is not only okay, but also essential to ask the interviewer
some questions. Have at least three or four intelligent
questions to ask him or her. Interviews are an exchange
of information, and not coming in with questions shows
that you did not prepare for the whole interview. |
| 10. |
Not following
up after the interview |
Calling or sending a note after the interview is your
way of showing your appreciation. It is a direct way of
telling the company that you are truly motivated and want
this job. |
