There are a number of interview errors that could prove detrimental to your job hunt, yet with proper preparation and an eye for detail they can be avoided with ease.
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Becoming late for an interview should always be avoided at all costs, but if it becomes inevitable, please notify your interviewer beforehand and explain the reason you will be running late.
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1. Not preparing
While nerves do contribute to interview mistakes, most common missteps can be avoided through proper preparation for the interview process. Doing this will enable candidates to avoid making critical mistakes that will cost them their job opportunity.
Some of the most frequently made interview mistakes include rambling, acting arrogantly and asking inappropriate questions. Candidates should prepare their answers to difficult questions in advance as well as have relevant examples from work experience or studies ready.
Candidates should strive to avoid asking inappropriate or insensitive questions that might make them appear rude or insensitive, such as asking about someone's dietary restrictions, sexual orientation or religion.
Finally, candidates should ensure that they bring copies of their resume and any additional materials requested of them for an interview. Doing this demonstrates preparedness and professionalism while keeping the candidate top of mind with hiring managers. Also be sure to send thank-you notes after every interview as this keeps your name front of mind with them.
2. Not being on time
Interviewers value your time, so being punctual for an appointment shows respect and professionalism. Being late reflects poorly upon you and lacks respect for their schedule; if an unexpected circumstance causes you to arrive late (car breaks down, train is delayed, grandma goes to hospital etc), inform the interviewer immediately so they can reschedule meeting at more suitable time.
Dozing off during an interview can be seen as a huge faux pas and will likely make the interviewer assume you aren't interested in either the position or company being offered. Furthermore, poor attentiveness may indicate you won't make an effective candidate.
As important as it is to discuss the company and its values in an interview, it is also vital that you don't go off topic by telling your entire life story - interviewers want to hear how your skills and background can assist them; not an account of why you left your previous job.
3. Not putting your best foot forward
When interviewing, it's crucial that you put forward your best self. This includes dressing appropriately and being on time; but many interviewees make mistakes that may jeopardise their chances at landing the job.
Some candidates' answers often ramble on and lack enthusiasm when responding to interviewer's questions, leaving an interviewer uncertain of whether or not they are truly committed to taking up the position. Furthermore, badmouthing previous employers or coworkers during interviews can create the impression that you're toxic - an impression which might not fit well within a company culture.
Some candidates neglect to prepare engaging questions for their interviewers, which can be an enormous mistake as this shows they're simply going through the motions. Instead, interviewees should research both the company and role prior to attending an interview in order to craft thoughtful yet insightful queries that set themselves apart from competitors and increase their chances of landing the job.
4. Not asking the right questions
Interviewing requires asking pertinent questions that demonstrate your interest in the company and role. Preparing some pertinent inquiries before hand will also allow you to set yourself apart from other candidates.
Avoid asking unrelated or irrelevant questions during an interview; this can be off-putting to interviewers and may indicate you're not interested in the job at hand.
Making an interviewer uncomfortable by rambling through answers can be costly. Take your time when responding to each question but avoid going too far; interviewers will notice and become increasingly unnerved by rambling answers.
Liars should avoid lying about their weaknesses during an interview as this could only create more issues down the line and damage your reputation. While it is acceptable to acknowledge your deficiencies as part of personal growth, be careful not to become overly defensive or negative about them.
5. Not being confident
Interviewers can detect when someone crosses over into arrogant territory. Instead of telling an interviewer why they should hire you, focus on explaining your skills and experience in such a way that it clearly demonstrates why you would make an asset to their company and job.
If you find yourself feeling nervous during an interview, take several deep breaths before answering each question. This will help soothe nerves and ensure you provide answers clearly and concisely. Also remember to avoid waffle and talking over the interviewer; doing so causes them to have to figure out exactly what points are relevant to them in response to what has been discussed with them.
Interviewees who show desperation during the interview process risk offending interviewers and making them question whether you can handle the responsibilities of their position. Instead of showing desperation for work, show confidence and enthusiasm about doing it!
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