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Last Updated on July 30, 2024
The big interview day has arrived, and you’ve spent time doing your homework – interview questions, company research, etc. But interviewing for a new job is a serious business and the stress can sometimes be overwhelming. Not knowing what will happen during the interview (the types of questions, how you will interact with the interviewers, etc.) combined with the pressure of finding a new job can lead to some fatal errors during the process. Identify some interview traps that may keep you from landing your
Common Interview Mistakes
- Talking Too Much or Too Little: Striking the right balance in conversation is crucial. Talking too much can make you seem self-absorbed while talking too little can make you appear unengaged. Practice concise, relevant responses to keep the conversation flowing naturally and ensure you cover all important points.
- Neglecting to Practice Common Questions: Common interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” are almost guaranteed to come up. Practicing these responses can help you answer confidently and clearly, showcasing your skills and suitability for the role without sounding rehearsed.
- Not Asking Questions: Interviews are a two-way street. Failing to ask questions can signal a lack of interest or initiative. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role,
team , and company to show your engagement and to gather information that will help you determine if the job is the right fit for you.
101 Job Interview Questions You'll Never Fear Again provides the best strategies for dealing with everything from classic questions like "Tell me about yourself" and "What are your greatest weaknesses?"
- Badmouthing Previous Employers: Speaking negatively about past employers can make you look unprofessional and difficult to work with. Instead, frame your past experiences positively and focus on what you learned or how you grew professionally. This approach shows maturity and a positive attitude.
- Overlooking the Job Description: Not thoroughly understanding the job description can lead to mismatched expectations. Review the job description carefully and relate your skills and experiences to the specific requirements of the role. This shows that you are well-prepared and truly understand what the job entails.
- Failing to Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Showing enthusiasm for the role and the company is important. A lack of enthusiasm can make it seem like you’re not genuinely interested in the position. Express your excitement about the opportunity and explain why you’re passionate about the role.
- Using Unprofessional Language: The language you use during an interview should always remain professional. Avoid slang, overly casual language, or any inappropriate terms. Using clear and professional language helps you present yourself as a serious and competent candidate.
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- Interrupting the Interviewer: Interrupting the interviewer can come off as rude and impatient. Always wait for the interviewer to finish speaking before you respond. This shows respect and good communication skills, which are crucial for any job role.
- Ignoring Non-Verbal Cues: Non-verbal communication, such as eye contact, body language, and facial expressions, plays a significant role in how you are perceived. Be mindful of these cues, as they can convey confidence, attentiveness, and enthusiasm, or, conversely, disinterest and nervousness.
- Forgetting to Follow Up: Sending a thank-you note or email after the interview is a crucial step often overlooked. This simple gesture shows appreciation for the opportunity and reiterates your interest in the position. It also helps you stand out from other candidates who may not take this extra step.
Sending a powerful thank you letter after an interview can help put you ahead other candidates interviewing for the job so you get the coveted offer. Receive step-by-step instructions on how to write custom thank you letters for every interview.
Don’t fall for the “casual is okay” trap
You need to dress the part and how you dress will cause people to perceive you in certain ways, right or wrong. The safest way to go is to dress in business attire (e.g. clean suit). You don’t have to worry about being overdressed and, even though some employers may permit you to dress more casually, don’t take a chance on your interview. Take a look at Tips to Dress the Part for the Interview.
Don’t be late
If possible, take a trial visit to the interview location so that you know how long it will take to get there (and you know where it is). Once you know how long it takes, add 20 minutes to that so that you have extra time in case of some unknown delay (like slow public transportation) – you never know when might need the extra time. Although you may arrive at your location early, don’t contact the interviewer until 5-10 minutes before the interview (you don’t want to appear too eager).
There is a delicate balance between having confidence and being arrogant. No one knows your background better than you. Be proud of your accomplishments and don't be shy when telling your story.Click To TweetLack of confidence is a common mistake
There is a delicate balance between having confidence and being arrogant. No one knows your background better than you. Be proud of your accomplishments and don’t be shy when telling your story. Your handshake and initial interaction will be the “first impression” that the hiring manager will have regarding your self-confidence. Believe in yourself.
Don’t ask about . . .
Don’t ask about benefits during your first few rounds of interviews. Keep in mind that your earliest questions may be perceived as topics you’re most concerned about when considering the job so your early questions should be focused on the company and position. If the interviewer communicates the company’s benefits with you, feel free to ask one to two questions about the policies that the interviewer has already discussed.
Give Examples
Failing to give examples of how your experience aligns with the job opportunity. Focus on accomplishments and specific experiences that demonstrate you are the right person for the job. This, of course, is all part of your “homework” prior to the interview (see 15 Tips for Improving Your Job Search).
Research the Company
Failing to know about the company will likely cost you any hope of an offer. As a follow on the “homework” comment above, if the interviewer doesn’t ask you specific questions about the company, they are likely to ask you “Why do you want to work here”. Let the interviewer know that you studied the company and thoughtfully chose it as a future employer.
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Know Your Worth
How much are you worth? Not a good time to answer that question if you can avoid it. If, however, the interviewer asks you what you’re expected pay is, try something like “it’s not about the salary, it’s about the job and the opportunity”. You can also indicate that if you are the right person for the role, you are sure the compensation will be fair.
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Telephone Interviews
Don’t underestimate the importance of telephone interviews. You need to ace your telephone interview to make it to the in-person interview. Telephone interviews are difficult because you (and the interviewer) can’t see expressions and other conversational gestures (not to mention eye contact). There are a few things you should think about. First, pick a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. You also have an advantage, you can keep all of the notes you need handy so that you can answer those difficult questions. Take a look at 10 Telephone Interview Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make.
Thank You
Forgetting to say “Thank You”. While some think thank-you notes are no longer necessary, this is not true. Thank you notes are an important part of the interview process. This is your opportunity to let the interviewer know why you are the best person for the job – 5 Ways to Ensure Your Thank You Letter is Noticed.
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