If your cover letter and resume are impressive enough to be considered for a job, you could get the job – provided you do well in the interview. You don’t have to be flustered or lose your chance at a job, even if you are a seasoned professional.
Don’t do your research.
While you might be able to perform the job well, do you understand the business? Visit the company’s website to learn more about them. Learn about the market’s major players and competitors.
Don’t be late
Employers will not like you if you show up late to an appointment unless you have a good excuse.
Inappropriate Dressing
Smart casual may be the current fashion, but professional attire is still appropriate business attire for interviews. It all comes down to first impressions.
Fidgeting with Unnecessary Pros
These include cell phones, nail files and chewing gum. They all have one thing in common: they are inappropriate for the interview table.
Poor Body Language
An interview will be much easier if you have a good attitude, a smile, a positive demeanor, and a firm handshake.
Unclear Answering and Rambling
Avoid mumbling and rushing to answer questions. It doesn’t inspire confidence. Don’t mumble. The interviewer won’t ask you to repeat an answer or strain to understand what you are saying.
Talking Negatively About Your Current Employer
No matter how ineffectual or despotic, your employer is, you should never complain about them. Negative remarks about your employer will not reflect well on yourself.
Do not ask questions.
Employers want to know that you are interested in the job and will be open to answering any questions.
Lies on your Resume
Any information on your resume may be discussed during an interview. A fabrication about your education or work history could also damage your reputation.
Not enough familiarity or too personal?
Do not tell heartbreaking stories about how desperate you are to get the job because of your debts. Don’t be complacent or too familiar. It doesn’t make a good impression.
Do not bring other resumes.
You can bring extra copies of your resume if you are unsure how many people will be interviewing. This will demonstrate that you are well-prepared.
Sitting down before being invited.
It is a good practice to wait until you are given a place to sit. Avoid slouching and putting your feet on anything but the ground.
Talking about Time or Money
Discussing money, and future working and vacation arrangements are not recommended unless an offer has been made.
Cursing
It is not acceptable to use inappropriate or foul language at work, and it is especially unacceptable in interviews.
Do not follow up
Although you might not feel that you have performed well in interviews, a simple email expressing your interest in the job is a nice gesture that could pay off in the long term.