Interviewing is hard work. You want to make a great impression and let the interviewer know how knowledgeable you are and how much value you can bring to the company. No matter how hard you try, there are a few things many people overlook in the interview process that can cost them a great job. Don’t make these interview mistakes.
Interview Mistakes to Avoid
These simple tips will help you know the interview mistakes to avoid and land your dream job.
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Not Making an Effort with Your Appearance
Regardless of the job you’re applying for and what the expected dress code will be, suit and tie or jeans and a t-shirt, how you look is the first impression an interviewer will have of you. Put yourself together well. Tuck your shirt in, comb your hair, wear clean shoes. Even if you’re attire will be different if you get the job, make sure you look clean and professional.
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Not Arriving on Time
You’ve probably heard the old adage “early is on time and on time is late.” That is especially true when interviewing for a new job. According to CNBC, arriving late is the most common mistake people make during interviews. Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Being late shows your future employer that you have poor time management skills.
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Bringing Coffee with You
Walking in with your coffee shop beverage or even a bottle of water is unprofessional. Your focus needs to be on your interview and bringing a beverage with you will make the meeting feel informal, not professional.
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Letting Your Phone Ring
Your phone should be kept on silent or, better yet, left in your car. Having your phone out is rude and disrespectful to your interviewer; it will make the impression that you don’t care about the interview.
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Not Doing Your Homework
Regardless of the job you’re applying for, do your homework. Look the company up online, read reviews, know what products and/or services they offer, and know who the key players in the company are.
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Not Paying Attention
It can be easy to zone out if the topic of conversation is not engaging, but make an effort to stay focused. Your interviewer will see you zone out and it will let them know you’re not interested in the company.
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Talking Too Much
While it’s important to answer questions, it’s also important to be efficient and stay on topic. Don’t get sidetracked and ramble on about things not related to the question that was asked of you.
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Badmouthing Past Coworkers
Regardless of how you feel about your previous positions and the people you worked with; a job interview is not the time to bring these things up. You want to be seen as a team player and discussing former coworkers and building yourself up against them will convey the opposite.
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Not Being Prepared
You will be asked some hard questions about your previous employment during your interview. Be prepared to answer questions about why you left your last position, how you worked with your coworkers and boss, and what you liked or disliked about your previous job.
Preparing in advance is the best way to make a great first impression on your next job interview. Dress professionally, do your homework, and show the interviewer you care about the job and the company.
Do You Need Help?
Learn how to stand out from your competition during an interview, check out our services at Career Find.