How to avoid the top 5 interview mistakes

 

Mistake 1: Not preparing for the interview

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You may think you can simply breeze through an interview without any preparation. However, most employers can tell when you haven’t put any thought into how you will answer their questions or demonstrate your suitability for the job. That’s why it’s important to put in some time, research, and practice before the big day.

There are five main ways to prepare for your interview:

• research the employer, the job, and where the job fits within the organisation
• match your skills, qualifications, and experience to the tasks, responsibilities, and requirements listed in the job description
• think of examples you could use from your work history to demonstrate how your skills and experience are a good match for the job
• practice answering common interview questions
• scour the details of the interview for clues as to what will happen on the day, for instance, whether you’ll be interviewed by a panel or by an individual

Taking time to prepare before an interview will reduce your nervousness, polish your performance, and improve your chances of standing out from other candidates.

 

Mistake 2: Criticising current or previous employers

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One key trait that employers are interested in is loyalty. Complaining about your current or past employers or colleagues suggests a level of disrespect and a lack of loyalty. It gives the impression that you may treat this employer in just the same way. Blaming your past employer or colleagues for your job move may also suggest that you aren’t willing to take responsibility for your choices.

Whatever the reason for leaving past employment or seeking a job move, be diplomatic and positive. If necessary, explain how you attempted to overcome problems in the workplace.

 

Mistake 3: Dressing inappropriately

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Whatever job you interview for, it’s important to give the impression that you respect the employer and are sufficiently interested in the job to dress smartly for your meeting with them. Smart doesn’t have to be boring and stop you from expressing your personality. However, it does mean thinking about the impression your clothes will leave with the interviewer.

If you’re unsure what ‘appropriate’ means for the employer, do a little research. Search the company website and social media for images of their workforce. Do the same for companies in the same industry. There may even be clues in the job advert, job description, or your interview details.

 

Mistake 4: Failing to ask questions

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Generally, the same interview questions will be asked of all candidates. That is why asking your own questions is so important; it provides you with an opportunity to stand out from your competition. Failing to ask questions during or at the end of the interview may also give the impression that:

• you haven’t researched the employer
• you’re not knowledgeable about the role and industry
• you’re not enthusiastic about the job

Before you attend the interview, think of a number of pertinent questions to ask.

 

Mistake 5: Arriving late to the interview

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Whether it’s an interview via Zoom or an in-person meeting, arriving late will always annoy the employer and make for a negative first impression.

If it’s a Zoom or phone interview, make sure everything is set up and tested so you can begin on time. If you have to travel to the interview, research how long it will take to get there, how you will get there, and what the alternatives are if your train is delayed or the car breaks down.

If arriving late is unavoidable, make sure you apologise to the employer and explain.

 

After the interview

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One final mistake that is easy to avoid: not following up with the employer. Why should you follow up?

• If you’ve landed the job and you’re happy to accept, your job search is at an end.
• If you haven’t landed the job, you can ask for feedback.
• Even if you face rejection this time, following up means that the employer will remember you and perhaps contact you if another suitable vacancy occurs.

 

Wrapping it up

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We all make mistakes; it’s just one element of being human. However, the five common interview mistakes discussed here are avoidable with a little thought, research, and preparation.