Common Interview Mistakes

Submitted by Erin Suess on Sat, 04/10/2010 - 6:08pm

Have you ever left an interview and caught yourself saying “I wish I had a chance to redo that interview” or “if I only would have done this or said that”? Either way you do not want to leave an interview wishing you had an opportunity to do it again. Chances are you will not get that opportunity so you have to nail it on the first try.

Below is a list of common interview mistakes. Be sure to take note of these mistakes to make sure you do not fall victim to these mistakes. You only have one shot to make a first impression; make it count!!

1)Failed to do your homework. With technology at our fingertips there is no excuse to come unprepared to an interview. Make sure you research the company and come prepared with at least the basic information:

The size of the company
Services and products they offer
Their competition
Organizational goals
Percentage of sales growth over the last five years (their current financial situation)

2)Not asking Questions. Never show up to an interview without your list of questions. Most employers take note and are not impressed if you fail to ask questions. Keep in mind you are interviewing them as well so come prepared and be SURE to ask some questions. A few sample questions are:

Can you tell me about the organizational culture?
What are some of the skills and abilities need to be successful in this position?
What are the day to day responsibilities of the job?
What type of training is available?
What is our next step?

3)Showing up late. It does not matter what your excuse is for showing up late-it will not go over well. Make sure you leave PLENTY of time to get to the job interview because you never know what will happen on your way there.

4) Wimpy Handshake. Many people do not think this really matters but it does. A strong firm handshake is a sign of confidence, assertiveness, and determination. A wimpy handshake can make a person come across as being weak or indecisive. Although a handshake is not the best indicator of a person’s potential, when meeting an interviewer for the first time a handshake is a part of your first impression.

5) Not asking for the job. After the interview is over it is vital to summarize your interest in the job and to ask what the next steps are. If you fail to talk about your interest and show enthusiasm for the job the employer may get the wrong message-that you are not interested.

6) Failure to connect yourself to the job. You must paint a picture for the employer-how are your skills, abilities and talents going to fit their needs. What can you do for the employer and why you are a better fit than any another candidate? A great way to practice this skill is to create a JAR story. Click here to learn more: JAR Story

7) Some other common interview mistakes:

Poor appearance or poor dress
Asking about compensation and benefits too soon
Talking to much
Badmouthing a previous employer
Lack of enthusiasm
Chewing gum
Bringing your cell phone turned on
Lack of direction
Inability to clearly communicate your long-term plan
Lack of professionalism

I hope this list was helpful and remember you have one chance to make a first impression. Avoid these mistakes and come prepared! If you would like to read more on interviewing visit another blog post here: Interview Basics

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