6 COMMON JOB INTERVIEW MISTAKES (and how to avoid them)

Anyone looking for a job knows how hard it is to get through to the invitation stage. If you are selected to a job interview, increase your chances of success by not making these mistakes!

BEING UNPREPARED

Turning up to an interview unprepared can most likely cost you the job. Being prepared not only shows the interviewer that you are keen on the job, but you will most likely perform far better in the interview if you have prepared beforehand.

  • why you want to work for the company
  • what you know about the company
  • what can you bring to the company

TURNING UP LATE

Similar to being unprepared, turning up late for the agreed meeting time is a big set back. Make sure you find out exactly where you will be meeting.

  • how will you get there
  • how long will it take
  • do you need to pay for tolls or parking

If you can, do a dummy run so you know what route to take and exactly how long it will take you.

APPEARING DISINTERESTED

Most people are nervous at interviews and if you get nervous too that’s OK. Just remember, nerves can make you look disinterested and that’s definitely not the message you want to give the interviewer.

Show your interest and enthusiasm for the job by positive body language:

  • sit tall and confidently
  • smile
  • maintain eye contact
  • firm handshake

Think positively and let that shine through both your body language and your conversation.

INAPPROPRIATE APPEARANCE

You need to show that you are serious about the job on offer so dress and behave appropriately.  If you’re not sure what to wear, read our blog about dressing for an interview.

Other behaviour to avoid is:

  • Chewing gum
  • Flirting
  • Bad behaviour
  • Inappropriate language
  • Lack of manners

NOT ASKING QUESTIONS

If you don’t ask any questions, the interviewer may think you’re not interested. Asking questions can also help you determine if the job is the right one for you.

Before the interview, think of some information that you would like to know about the job or business.

  • Is it a new position or a replacement for someone?
  • Who does the person in this job report to?
  • How would an employee know if they were considered a success or not in this role?
  • What is the next step in this process – when will a decision be made?

Of course asking a question about the job that has already been covered is not good, so pay attention to what is being discussed in the interview.

NOT FOLLOWING UP ON THE INTERVIEW

You may be relieved once the interview is over, however you can stand out from the crowd if you send up a follow up message to your interviewer/s.

Send a message to your interviewer:

  • Thanking them for their time and how it was a pleasure meeting them
  • Highlight any strengths that you can bring to the role on offer
  • Add any positive comments that you forgot to mention in the interview

Be sure to keep the message short and proof read before sending.

 

Anne Southall

 

 

Author: Anne Southall

Anne has worked in the recruitment business since the 1980’s and has a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Anne loves working with people and finding the right person for the job.

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