Nailing a job interview and impressing your recruiter isn’t always easy, and even the most seasoned job candidates make mistakes. The problem is that doing the wrong things can really hurt your chances and squander a perfectly good opportunity. But fortunately, many mistakes are avoidable, and planning ahead of time should prevent you from making these common blunders at your next interview.
Not Showing Up on Time
This can be one of the biggest deal breakers when it comes to getting hired, and there’s never an excuse for being late. Whether it’s because you overslept, got caught in traffic or you got lost, your interviewer probably won’t be amused – and tardiness is sure to get things started off on the wrong foot. That’s why you need to take every possible measure to ensure that you’re on time, or a few minutes early is even better. This might include setting two alarms, leaving an extra 10 minutes early or having an alternate route in case of heavy traffic.
Dressing Inappropriately
First impressions are lasting impressions, and looking professional is key to getting an interviewer to take you seriously. The problem is that some candidates are either underdressed in attire that’s too casual or wear clothing that could be considered overly provocative. While the specific dress code can vary from job to job, you should use good judgment and dress in a way that conveys professionalism and class.
Failing to Research the Company
If an interviewer asks you something like, “So what do you know about our company?” and you draw a blank, it’s going to make you look bad. On the other hand, if you’re able to give some key facts about their company history, philosophy, industry, etc. it can really work to your advantage. You don’t need to necessarily perform extensive research, but taking the time to check out their website and LinkedIn profile is definitely a good idea and should leave you prepared.
Talking Negatively
Whether it’s speaking poorly about a past employer or complaining about something, talking negatively is unlikely to set a good tone for an interview. Even if it seems innocuous, negativity is never a good icebreaker. This is especially true when it comes to complaining about a previous employer because it shows a lack of respect and your interviewer may get the impression that you would be a difficult employee. That’s why you should steer the topic of conversation in a positive direction and avoid blatant negativity.
By knowing about a few common mistakes ahead of time, you should be more prepared and can avoid them once it’s time for your interview. This should translate into less friction between you and your recruiter and help you set the right tone.
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