Job Interviews: The Top 10 Mistakes People Make and How To Avoid Them!
Posted: Wednesday, April 18, 2007
by Ben Jones
Too-Write!
Here are 10 common mistakes people make for job interviews and some ways to avoid them:
1. Being tardy. One of the worst things you can do is be late. It really doesn't matter if your car broke down or the train was derailed. A prospective employer is looking for someone prompt and reliable, and who is sufficiently organised to ensure they arrive on time for something as important as their job interview. Therefore, always go early to the interview and if you're too early then find somewhere to wait such as a coffee shop. In this way you can ensure that you "arrive" around 10 minutes ahead of schedule. If you are unfamiliar with the location then a trial run a few days earlier is a good idea.
3. Not showing why you’re the best choice. Be familiar with the job description of the position so you can illustrate how your experience, abilities, and strengths are in line with the company’s needs. Many potential employers want to know why they should hire you specifically. Make it clear to them. Arm yourself with knowledge about the company, the industry and their competitors.
4. Being too modest. Failing to talk yourself up during an interview is one of the most self-defeating mistakes you can make. This is not the time for humility, so sing your praises! Don’t be afraid to talk up everything you’ve accomplished, whether in school or in previous companies. This is your time to shine.
5. Talking too much. Be careful not to talk over the interviewer and pay attention to what they are saying! This meeting should be a two-way conversation, and many interviewees cover up their nervousness by blathering on. Sit calmly and listen carefully when the interviewer is talking and answer questions thoughtfully.
6. Failing to ask questions. Your résumé may be impressive on paper, but employers also appreciate a candidate who can ask several intelligent questions during an interview. Prepare at least 3 or 4 questions in advance to ask the interviewer. Interviews are an exchange of information, and not having questions to ask can reveal a lack of preparation.
7. Trash talking. Even if you hated your former boss or felt you were treated unfairly by your previous employer, a job interview is not the place to launch into a litany of complaints. Don’t go there. If you were laid off or fired from a previous position, be prepared with an explanation that puts a positive spin on the circumstances.
8. Interrupting the interview. Turn your phone off and if you can, go to the toilet at least half an hour before your interview, because nerves can put stress on the bladder! If you absolutely have to 'go' during the interview, do so because it's better than sitting there jiggling. Excuse yourself, apologise for the delay and be as quick as you can, ensuring you thoroughly dry your hands. No one likes a wet handshake. Also, if you get dry mouth when nervous, take or ask for some water, but only sip it - remember nervous bladder!
9. Lack of enthusiasm. This is your first and sometimes only chance to showcase your personality. Don’t walk in announcing how you’re having a bad day. Be upbeat and polite. Show your enthusiasm for both the job and the opportunity to interview for it. And don’t forget to thank the person at the end of the interview!
10. Forgetting the follow-up. Make sure to send a handwritten "thank you" note or polite email to the interviewer expressing gratitude for his or her time and consideration. And while you don’t want to start calling the company on a daily basis, a phone call checking a week after the interview is perfectly acceptable.
Good luck and good interviewing!
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Top-level comments on this article: (4 total)Ben, I cannot tell you how many times I have seen someone go into an interview dressed in blue jeans, chomping gum, blank places on the application and wonder why they didn't get a call back. Well written article with great tips.JL, thanks for your kind review. I see people undermining their chances all the time with simple mistakes that could easily be avoided. Hopefully with a few tips from the likes of us - more seasoned job seekers - they'll stand a better chance of making a good impression. :)
Ben, Great tips! Here are a few more, gleaned from recent interviews: Don't talk about how your new medication is helping to control your mood swings. Don't discuss past mentors if remembering them causes you to cry uncontrollably.Steve, how did I miss those essential gems? Perhaps I should also add "Don't speak in Klingon as you can appear slightly antagonistic" and "Don't spit your chewing tobacco out unless you're a really good shot!" :)
Ben, excellent tips and needed by so many I've seen who are clueless about what a job interview entails. A great resource to pass on to others.Avis, thanks for your kind comments.
Ben, It just so happens I will go for an interview next week. Out of the mistakes mentioned - believe it or not - I only lacked one. "Pretty good"... LOL Very good information! I will start my notes/questions now. :)Iris, I hope my suggestions help you with your upcoming interview and that you "knock them dead" (but not literally lol). Very good luck and we'd love to hear how you go! :)
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