It’s inevitable that you’ll make some mistakes during a job interview. But there are certain errors that can really hurt your chances of landing the gig. Here are four of the most common interview mistakes – and how to avoid them.
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Not doing your homework
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is going into an interview without knowing anything about the company or the role you’re applying for. Not only does this make you look unprepared, but it also shows that you’re not really interested in the job.
Before your interview, take some time to research the company and the position you’re applying for. Read through the job description and try to learn as much as you can about the company’s culture and values. This will not only help you prepare for questions, but it will also give you a better sense of whether or not the company is a good fit for you.
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Failing to connect with your interviewer
Your interviewer is a human being, not a robot, so it’s important to try to establish a connection with them. This doesn’t mean that you need to be best friends, but you should try to build rapport and create a mutual understanding.
One way to do this is by Mirroring your interviewer’s behavior. If they sit back and cross their arms, you should do the same. If they lean forward and make eye contact, you should do the same. This will help create a sense of trust and understanding between you and your interviewer.
Another way to build rapport is by using open body language. This means keeping your arms open and avoiding any closed-off body language, such as crossing your arms or legs. Open body language shows that you’re approachable and interested in what your interviewer has to say.
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Talking too much (or not enough)
It’s important to strike a balance between talking too much and not saying anything at all. If you talk too much, you run the risk of sounding like you’re bragging or rambling. On the other hand, if you don’t say anything, you may come across as disinterested or unengaged.
A good rule of thumb is to answer each question thoroughly but concisely. This way, you can make sure that you’re providing the interviewer with the information they need without going on (and on and on).
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Asking the wrong questions
Towards the end of the interview, you’ll usually be given an opportunity to ask your own questions. This is your chance to show that you’re really interested in the job and the company.
However, some job candidates make the mistake of asking questions that are either too personal or too general. For example, you likely don’t want to ask about your interviewer’s family life or salary expectations. And, while it’s important to ask about the company, you should avoid asking questions that can easily be answered by a quick Google search.
Instead, try to ask questions that are specific to the role you’re applying for or the company itself. This will show that you’ve done your research and that you’re truly interested in the job.
Also, do not forget to send a properly prepared resume to your employer before the interview, or bring it to the interview.
By avoiding these four common mistakes, you can increase your chances of impressing your interviewer and landing the job. Just remember to do your homework, build rapport, strike a balance between talking and listening, and ask smart questions.
