Key Interview Mistakes to Avoid

What are the most common job interview mistakes? Arriving in shorts? Telling tales on your old boss? Being totally unprepared? How about all of the above?

It’s easy for an interview to bomb when you’re nervous or ill prepared. It’s even easier when you’re unaware of potential gaffes. This is especially true if you’re still quite young, or new to the job market. Generally, people in this position can approach an interview in two ways: either they’ll be terrified, or too relaxed. Obviously, you want to create the right impression (and not make the interviewer cringe!). Here are some suggestions on what you shouldn’t do, some of the common interview mistakes you should avoid.

You wear the wrong clothes

You’d think most people could get this one right, but they don’t. According to a recent survey by recruiting firm Adecco (Forbes), a whopping 75% of hiring managers said that interview attire was one of the top interview blunders! This especially rings true to younger interviewees. It’s definitely not acceptable to wear jeans and flip-flops (it’s been known to happen, according to Forbes), and
it’s always best to err on the side of formality. The same goes for clothing that’s too revealing. A rule of thumb: if in doubt, please, please leave it out!

You don’t do your homework

In order for an interview to be a success, you have to research the company. You need to know things backwards; otherwise the whole process can backfire. You need to be fully prepared for an interview, and this includes finding out as much as you possibly can. Forbes recommends that you do Internet research on the company, position, and even the interviewer. Learn about the industry, and use LinkedIn connections to get the inside scoop from people who currently work there.

You bad-mouth your ex-boss

According to Forbes, speaking ill of your previous employer creates a very bad impression. Even if your ex-boss was a tyrant, it’s never wise to communicate this, as it comes across as unprofessional and petty. It may even create the impression that you can’t get along with others. If you have had a hard time, think before you speak (or, ideally, decide what you’re going to say beforehand). Forbes suggests that you rather concentrate on how you dealt with those challenges, instead of how they made you feel.

Interviews are always nerve-wracking, but it helps if you prepare for potential pitfalls. Even something as mundane as not wearing a tie can make or break a job prospect. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, that you research all the details, and that you’re careful with your words. That way, you will come across as professional, intelligent and insightful. You might even hear the words, “You’re hired!”

This has been a Guukle Guest submission by Ang Lloyd

This guest post was written by Ang Lloyd on behalf of Skilled Migrant Jobs, which helps immigrants find suitable sponsorship job opportunities in Australia.