A successful job interview is a key component to completing a job search and landing an employment offer. Job interviews, however, are seen by many people as intimidating and stressful. By acknowledging some of the most common mistakes made by job candidates, you can maximize the chances of having a successful job interview with a positive outcome.
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Lack of Preparation
The most common mistake cited by interviewers and human resource personnel is lack of preparation on the part of the candidate. One of the most important things to do beforehand is to research the company. Have a general idea of what the company does, especially the company’s mission and its culture, as well as research the position. Reading press releases is a good way of obtaining information. By understanding more about the company, you can accentuate what sets you apart from other candidates and the kind of potential you bring. In addition to researching the company, candidates should prepare for answering the questions of an interview. There are typically some standard questions used in interviews across a variety of fields. Practicing a response can help you to outline points while making sure you stay on topic; however, you don’t want to sound scripted as if you’ve memorized a response during the interview. Participating in mock interviews with friends can be good practice experience. -
Dressing Inappropriately
Another common mistake is that candidates do not dress appropriately. Business attire is a good default if you are unsure of what to wear. Even when companies have a casual attire policy, dressing up shows that you take the opportunity seriously, that you are organized, and that you have ambition. Don’t forget the little things: shine your shoes; iron your shirts, pants, or dresses; and make sure that you are well-groomed. If you are offered a position, you can then settle into a more relaxed dress policy if the company allows. -
Speaking Negatively
Hiring professionals also cite speaking negatively about previous or current employment as a reason candidates might be passed over. The interview is a time to speak about what you bring to the table to help make the potential employer better. Speaking negatively about your previous or current situation, especially consistently undermines this goal. In doing so, it gives interviewers the impression that you do not excel in working with others in a group setting nor an effective communicator. In their eyes, if you demean your current work situation, it might show precedent for you to do so in the future as well. -
No Questions
At the end of the interview, candidates are usually asked if they have any questions of their own. Not having any questions to ask can make you seem indifferent to the position or unprepared. By asking the right questions, you can find out exactly what the job opportunity might be like, if it is a good fit for you. Ask questions such as “How would you describe a typical day?” or “What is something or a project that you worked on of which you are most proud?” This can give you an idea of what the company culture is like as well as show if current employees have enthusiasm for their work. The answers to these questions might lead to additional ones. -
No Follow-Up
Finally, not following up after an interview can work against you. Be sure to obtain a business card when you leave the interview. Later that day or at the beginning of business hours the next morning, send a short follow up email expressing enthusiasm, gratitude for the opportunity to be interviewed, and thankfulness for their time. This will help to keep you in the mind of hiring professionals and increase the chances that you will receive a response of some kind, regardless of whether or not you are offered a position.
