‘I CAN’T UNDERSTAND WHY I DIDN’T GET THE JOB’ – INTERVIEW MISTAKES TO AVOID

1. Never admit that the reason for leaving your last job was the fact that you beat up your boss.
2. Never flirt with the interviewer, or ask him or her out on a date during the interview.
3. Never ask the interviewer what the company does.
4. Always turn up for the right interview with the right company.
5. Never start brushing your hair in the middle of an interview.
6. Never criticize or run down your previous employer.
7. Never ask the interviewer about notice periods.
8. Never take your dog to a job interview.
9. Never challenge the interviewer to an arm-wrestling contest.
10. Never start tucking into your lunch during an interview.
You think I jest? I know it beggars belief, but the list above was compiled because these are things that job candidates have actually done at interviews. And they probably still went home wondering why they did not get the job!
Now, of course I agree that job interviews are stressful situations, but really...what were these guys thinking about? Whilst I am certain you none of you would fall for such gaffes, these examples do, however, raise the serious question of things to avoid at interviews. Here are ten of the most common mistakes, as viewed by recruiters:
1. Failing to research the company properly
You might not go so far as to ask the interviewer what the company does, but your lack of research can show in other ways. Make sure that you check out, not only the company’s own website, but other information relating to the organization which might have appeared on other websites or in the newspapers or trade journals. You need to demonstrate that you understand what they do, who their competitors are and where the company is headed in the future.
2. Failing to understand the nature of the job
In order to be able to market yourself successfully for a job, you need to match your skills, abilities, experience and education directly to the employer’s requirements and highlight why you are the best fit. Clearly, this cannot be achieved if you are unclear about the job description.
3. Not marketing yourself
All too often, candidates fail to sell themselves at interview. You need to make it absolutely clear what it is that you can offer that no other candidate can. What is your Unique Selling Proposition? Identify it and use it to convince the interviewer.
4. Not providing enough detail
‘Yes’ and ‘no’ answers do not tell the recruiter anything about you, and especially nothing about how your mind works. Recruiters need to understand the thought processes behind your decision-making and problem-solving.
5. Asking silly questions or not asking questions at all
Interviews usually end with the recruiter offering you the opportunity to ask about anything further, and they expect you to take them up on this offer. Make sure that when you prepare for your interview, you come up with three or four intelligent questions to ask.
6. Poor listening abilities
Despite the fact that interviews are stressful situations, you still need to listen carefully to what the recruiter tells you, rather than concentrating on trying to anticipate the next question. Information provided to you during the course of the interview may help you to answer further questions, and employers will be looking for your ability to assimilate, retain and use new information as you would within a new role.
7. Dressing inappropriately
Like it or not, you will be judged on your appearance, so make sure that you look smart, clean and, most of all, professional.
8. Not being yourself
Relaxation and interviews are not two concepts which we would normally associate with one another, but it is important to try to stay calm enough that you can still let your own personality shine through. If there are things you do not understand, then say so rather than pretending. Nobody expects you to be an expert in everything, and you run the risk of tripping yourself up and losing your credibility. In the midst of your nervousness, try to remember that you are interviewing the company too.
9. Lacking enthusiasm and confidence
Whilst interviewers expect candidates to feel nervous, if you come across as overly unsure of yourself, your uncertainty is liable to rub off. Greet your interviewer with a firm, confident handshake, smile and maintain good eye contact. Also, do not be afraid to show your passion and enthusiasm. These are also contagious, and nothing will impress the interviewer more than being able to see how keen you are.
10. Lack of preparation
If you try to ‘wing’ the interview - your lack of preparation will most likely show. Research the kinds of general questions that employers tend to ask and practice these with a friend, or even alone in front of a mirror. Do this until you feel able to deliver your answers comfortably, so that your responses do not come across as simulated.
They say that you never get a second chance to make a first impression, so make sure that your interviewer likes what he sees...and good luck!