Warning: Interview mistakes that could cost you the job

Warning: Interview mistakes that could cost you the job
SEEK content teamupdated on 24 July, 2024
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Landing an interview is an exciting milestone in the recruitment process, and your big opportunity to show how your skills, experience and personality make you the best person for the job.

“It’s often the final round – unless you have practical or hands-on testing – so it’s decision-making time,” says interview coach Kirsty Anne Ferguson at Interview Chix.

With so much on the line, the interview stage can be fraught with nerves and uncertainty, so it’s important to be aware of the most common pitfalls. Missteps like poor preparation, inappropriate attire and nervous rambling can make a negative impression – luckily there are things you can do to avoid them.

Here are some major gaffes to avoid when it comes to job interviews – and what you should do instead, to give yourself the best chances of landing the job.

Mistake #1: Being underprepared

Failing to research the position, the company and the industry can leave you stumped for words, making it seem like you don't really care about the job.

"If talking to you is like getting blood out of a stone, they won't be able to build a rapport with you or imagine working with you,” warns Ferguson.

Do this instead: Plan and research

Consider the questions you’re likely to be asked and prepare relevant answers, using examples from your experience, advises career coach Jane Jackson.

Typical questions include: Can you tell me a time when…? Have you ever experienced conflict in the workplace and how did you resolve it? Have you had a limited budget and still had to deliver quality? Have you had to balance multiple priorities and how did you manage that? 

“Prepare examples that describe the problem, the specific actions you took, and the tangible results of your actions.”

But don’t just talk about you. Demonstrate your interest in the business and industry, and bring ideas to the table based on your research.

“Understand the company, read their media releases, know who their key personnel are by looking at any online profiles, and see if they've been in the news recently," says Ferguson.

“Employers love it when candidates demonstrate industry knowledge and offer solutions, as this demonstrates initiative."

Mistake #2: Being late

"Being late is inexcusable. It may appear rude or highlight your lack of preparation and planning,” says Jackson.

Do this instead: Do a trial run 

"Do a trial run at the same time of day to gauge traffic, and if the interview is online, test the technology, lighting and audio,” she suggests.

If you do run late, call to let them know.

Mistake #3: Looking unprofessional

Inappropriate attire or poor grooming can be a fatal flaw. “We judge books by their covers, and first impressions are lasting,” says Jackson.

Do this instead: Dress appropriately

You don’t always have to wear a suit or formal corporate attire to an interview, she says.

Consider what would be the norm for the company’s environment and dress one notch above. If you’re unsure, ask the recruiter.

“And your grooming matters. Pay attention to the little details that show you care.”

Mistake #4: Overselling yourself

While you should be confident and present your best self, trying too hard can make you seem arrogant.

“People often oversell to compensate for insecurities or lack of confidence, which can be off-putting,” says Jackson.

Do this instead: Be humble

The interviewer isn’t expecting perfection – it’s better to show vulnerability than false confidence.

“A good attitude and willingness to learn can often make up for a lack of qualification or experience. And if you’re humble, you’ll come across as real and authentic,” Jackson adds.

Mistake #5: Rambling or oversharing

Nervousness can make you talk quickly, overshare and fill silence with chatter. 

“Stick to the highlights. Don’t talk for more than three minutes when answering 'tell me about yourself and your career',” says Ferguson.

Do this instead: Make an impact

Be selective with what you share and don’t be afraid of silence.

“Think to yourself, What's important for them to know about me?’ Say something powerful,” she adds. If you need a moment to think, say so. Then you can respond accurately and concisely.

“And once you’ve answered the question, stop – or ask if they would like you to expand.”

Mistake #6: Being negative

Criticising past jobs or employers reflects negatively on you as an interviewee and is a red flag for a hiring manager. 

“Your opinions and feelings may be valid to you, but they don’t help sell you to the interviewer. They’re irrelevant to your suitability for the job," says Ferguson.

Do this instead: Stick to facts

“Bring in facts and evidence – you'll feel and sound less egocentric and they'll do the heavy lifting for you," she adds.

“If you’ve had a challenging time before, rather than focus on the negatives, highlight the positives that came from it. Even a situation with a difficult manager will have given you strengths that you can highlight.”

The same rings true if you’re asked why you’re looking for a new job.

“If pressed for a reason for leaving, focus on what you aim for as the next step in your career rather than what was wrong at your previous employer.”

Mistake #7: Being forgettable

Interviewers might see multiple candidates in a day, so it’s possible to blend into the crowd if you don’t try to stand out.

“As the saying goes, ‘Be yourself because everyone else is taken’,” says Ferguson.

Do this instead: Be you

Stand out by being confident, owning your achievements, and offering a glimpse of your real self. Leave interviewers with something memorable, she says.

“There must be something particular about you that you can talk about – it doesn’t have to be earth shattering. You just want the recruiter to have something specific to remember you for.”

More from this category: Job interviews

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