In our last career services guide, we discussed how to prepare for an interview. In this guide, we want to share the common interview mistakes that candidates sometimes make so that you can avoid them, too.
Ten most common interview mistakes
Whether you have been interviewing for a while or have yet to have your first interview, some common mistakes can damage your chances of being selected for a job. It's vital that you know what they are to give yourself the best chance.
Let's take a look at what they are.
1. Being late to an interview
Arriving late for an interview is a huge mistake. It conveys a lack of professionalism and respect for the interviewer's time. To avoid this, ensure that you plan your route to arrive early.
Arriving early also allows you time to compose before the interview, often calming your nerves.
If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself running late, it's crucial to communicate with the interviewer as soon as possible to apologise and explain the situation.
2. Lack of preparation
Feeling nervous before an interview is common, but thorough preparation can significantly alleviate your anxiety. It also shows interest in the job and the company you are interviewing with.
One common mistake people make when preparing for an interview is not researching the company. Ensure you understand the company's mission, values, and history, and use this information to answer employer questions.
Another mistake is not practising your answers to common interview questions. Prepare some examples of how you have demonstrated job-relevant skills to the position.
Read our previous guide (linked above) to help you with these.
3. Poor body language
Good posture and eye contact help convey confidence and show potential employers that you are engaged and interested in both the job and the conversation. Remember, employers are looking for candidates excited to take a position with them - poor body language says the opposite.
Avoid slouching or sitting in an overly relaxed and disinterested position, as this can signify disrespect.
4. Inappropriate attire
While not every job interview requires a suit, you should be well-presented as a further sign of respect.
Some common mistakes associated with inappropriate attire include wearing clothes that are too casual, ill-fitting or revealing. It is essential to avoid wearing anything considered distracting or offensive, and it is also necessary to ensure your choice of outfit is clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free.
A great way to understand precisely what to wear is to research the company's dress code and dress one step above it. Also, consider what clients may think if you are applying for a client-facing role. And if you are using across regional lines, consider cultural differences in dress.
5. Remember to turn off your phone or silence it in an interview
Forgetting to do so can be disruptive and unprofessional, negatively impacting your chances of getting hired. The distraction can also damage your thought process, stopping you from making the point you hoped to make.
6. Not answering questions thoughtfully or honestly
We often see candidates answering questions with information they think an employer wants to hear rather than what the candidate thinks or feels about a subject. Mistakes like this can be costly for two reasons: first, being untrue to yourself could land you a job you might not like, and second, your interviewer can often see through either a lack of research or conviction, meaning you won't get the job.
Honesty and thoroughness are always best. If an interviewer asks about your current position, they will ask for details. Giving them the required details will help both of you understand if you are a good fit for the job.
Also, remember to be concise. You should be able to answer each question with the right amount of information without taking a long time to answer it.
7. Speaking negatively about an employer
Speaking negatively about an employer you have worked for is not a good idea, especially in a professional setting. It can create a negative impression about who you are and how you handle things and may even harm your career prospects.
Instead, find time to practice focusing your answers on the positive and highlighting your strengths and achievements.
8. Asking about salary or benefits too early in the interview process.
Most job descriptions include salary and benefit information, so you should be aware of this before applying for a job. If they don't, but you find you have an interview, leave your salary and benefit questions for a more appropriate time, usually after they have shown interest in you for the position.
Bringing up salary or benefits too early in the interview process can make it seem like you're only interested in the job for financial reasons. To avoid this mistake, focus on asking questions about the company, the role, and how you can contribute to the team. Show your enthusiasm and interest in the company and the position, and ask thoughtful questions about the work.
Remember, the interview process is a two-way street. The employer is evaluating whether you're a good fit for the company, but you're also assessing whether the company is a good fit for you. By showing interest in the company and the work, you'll have a better chance of finding a job that aligns with your values and career goals.
9. Lack of Confidence
Confidence is critical in any job interview. You must present yourself as someone capable and confident in your abilities. However, you should not show too much confidence, as this can come across as a bad attitude.
We appreciate that finding the right balance can be challenging, so we recommend practising your interview skills with friends or family first. Practice will help you get a feel for common interview questions and build confidence in answering them.
Additionally, take some time to reflect on your skills and accomplishments. Remind yourself of your strengths and how they relate to the position you're applying for. If you have reached the interview stage, the company will have seen something of interest in you. That shows that you are worthy.
When you are in the interview and feel extra nervous, breathe deeply and take your time answering questions. Controlling your breathing can help you feel more centred and less anxious. Remember, you are not in question; you are simply in a conversation where both parties are looking for a great future working relationship.
10. Not asking questions
Another common mistake candidates make during an interview is not asking questions. Remember that your interview is also a chance to get to know your potential employer.
Take some time before the interview to list questions that you can ask the interviewer. These questions can be about the team, the company's culture, or the position's challenges and opportunities. Try to ensure that these questions take some time and cannot be quickly answered by looking at the company's website or job description, as that shows a lack of research.
Avoid these common interview mistakes: Final advice.
If we were to give one final piece of advice, it would be this: Having read our Job Search guides to this point, you have covered a lot of ground. You know how to find the right jobs for you, how to apply for them, and how to prepare and present yourself for an interview.
Now, it is time to remember one thing: You are enough, and your dream job is around the corner.
It might not be the next interview you go for, but it is out there. Keep the faith and keep perfecting what you do.
Good luck, and we will see you in our following guide: What to do after your interview.