If your résumé and cover letter have been impressive enough to get you an interview, the job could be yours—provided you perform well at the interview. Even the most seasoned professional can get flustered and spoil their chances, so with a little preparation, you can avoid these common interview blunders:
Not Doing Your Research
You might have the skills to do the job, but do you know the how the company operates? Check the ‘About Us’ link on the company website and read their mission statement. Find out who the competition and major players in the market are.
Turning Up Late
Unless you have a very good excuse and call ahead to rearrange, turning up late for an appointment will not endear you to any employer.
Dressing Inappropriately
While smart casual might be the current trend, professional attire is still proper business etiquette for interviews. It’s all about first impressions.
Fidgeting With Unnecessary Props
This can include cell phones, nail files, and chewing gum. They all have one thing in common –they don’t belong at the interview table.
Poor Body Language
Eye contact, good posture, a cheerful demeanor and a firm handshake will get you a long way in an interview.
Unclear Answering and Rambling
Take time to think before you answer questions and avoid bumbling to an uncomfortable halt; it doesn’t inspire confidence. Also, don’t mumble; the interviewer doesn’t want to have to ask you to repeat an answer or have to strain to hear every word you’re saying
Speaking Negatively About Your Current Employer
Never complain about your current employer, no matter how despotic or ineffectual they are. Badmouthing won’t reflect well on you.
Not Asking Questions
Employers want to see you’re interested enough to hear more about the post or company and will look kindly on any well-placed questions.
Lying on YourRésumé
Anything written on your résumé could be discussed at an interview and a fabrication about your work or education record could damage your reputation in the long run.
Getting Personal or Too Familiar
Avoid giving sob stories about how much you need the job due to the mountain of debt you’ve accrued. Also, don’t behave in a conceited or over-familiarmanner; it never makes a good impression.
Not Bringing Along Additional Resumes
If you’re unsure how many people will be interviewing you, bring along surplus copies of your résumé to hand out. It will show that you’re highly prepared.
Sitting Down Before Invited
It’s common courtesy to wait until you’re shown a seat to sit down. Also, avoid slouching or putting your feet anywhere but firmly on the ground.
Discussing Money or Time Off
Unless an offer is put on the table, it’s not recommended that you discuss money or future working and vacation arrangements.
Cursing
Using foul and inappropriate language is generally not acceptable at any time in the workplace, so it is an especially bad idea in an interview.
Not Following Up
You might not think you’ve performed well in an interview, but a simple email reiterating your interest is a courtesy that might just pay off in the long run.
Want to know what you should be doing in an interview to be remembered? These tips for making a lasting impression will help ensure your interview goes well.
As a seasoned professional in the realm of career development and job interviews, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in securing a job through successful interviews. Over the years, I have navigated through various industries and positions, gaining valuable insights into the dos and don'ts that can make or break an interview.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article you provided. The article outlines common interview blunders and offers advice on how to avoid them. Here's a breakdown of each concept:
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Not Doing Your Research:
- Importance: Knowing about the company's operations, mission, and competition.
- Tip: Check the 'About Us' link, read the mission statement, and be aware of major market players.
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Turning Up Late:
- Importance: Punctuality is crucial; being late without a valid excuse is frowned upon.
- Tip: Call ahead to rearrange if you have a valid reason for being late.
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Dressing Inappropriately:
- Importance: Professional attire is essential for a good first impression.
- Tip: Stick to proper business etiquette; professional appearance matters.
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Fidgeting With Unnecessary Props:
- Importance: Distractions like cell phones, nail files, and chewing gum are not suitable.
- Tip: Keep the interview table free from distractions; focus on the conversation.
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Poor Body Language:
- Importance: Good posture, eye contact, and a firm handshake contribute to a positive impression.
- Tip: Display confident body language throughout the interview.
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Unclear Answering and Rambling:
- Importance: Take time to think before answering; avoid unclear or lengthy responses.
- Tip: Be concise, thoughtful, and avoid mumbling.
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Speaking Negatively About Your Current Employer:
- Importance: Complaining about the current employer reflects poorly on the interviewee.
- Tip: Stay positive and refrain from criticizing past or current employers.
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Not Asking Questions:
- Importance: Asking questions demonstrates interest in the position and company.
- Tip: Prepare thoughtful questions to show your engagement.
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Lying on Your Résumé:
- Importance: Fabrication on the résumé can damage your reputation.
- Tip: Be truthful and ready to discuss anything on your résumé.
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Getting Personal or Too Familiar:
- Importance: Maintain professionalism; avoid personal stories or over-familiarity.
- Tip: Focus on your qualifications and the job at hand.
These are key concepts that, when understood and applied, can significantly enhance one's chances of making a positive impression during a job interview. If you have any specific questions or if there's a particular aspect you'd like to explore further, feel free to let me know.
