The 8 most common job interview mistakes

Applying for a job can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. This article discusses the 8 most common interview mistakes and how to avoid them.

Applying for a job can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. If you keep a few tips in mind you can increase your odds of landing that job. This article discusses the eight most common interview mistakes and how to avoid them.

Making mistakes on your CV

The quality of your CV and motivation letter can determine in seconds whether you will be selected as a candidate. Make sure both are appealing and error-free. Language is important, whether you’re working in an office or studio or at a construction site.

Spelling mistakes and typos make a sloppy impression, which could seriously reduce your chances of getting invited to an interview. If you have doubts about your writing ability, ask someone with strong language skills to check your CV and motivation letter for you.

Arriving late

Being late never looks good. If you're invited to a job interview (online or in-person), your interviewer expects you to arrive on time. Making the interviewer wait is not only disrespectful, it also makes a bad impression and lowers your chances of getting the job.

If you know you're going to be late, let the interviewer know as soon as possible. If you have an online interview, test your software and equipment before you start. If you have an in-person interview, check the route around the time you need to leave so you can estimate how long it will take you to get there. Play it safe and leave early.

Wearing inappropriate clothes

Clothing can make or break an interview. Regardless of your personal style, you should always dress smartly and professionally for a job interview. For men, this may mean a suit or smart trousers and a button-down shirt.

For women, it may mean a pantsuit, a dress, a skirt or smart trousers and a blouse. Consider the company and the corporate culture when choosing your outfit. If you're not sure what to wear, feel free to ask us for advice.

Leaving your phone on

Turn your phone off or on silent mode and put it away during your interview. The last thing you want is to be distracted by buzzing or ringing in the middle of your conversation. Don’t give yourself the opportunity to get distracted!

For online interviews, other potentially disruptive factors include pets unexpectedly barking or jumping on your lap and children suddenly walking into the room.

Being unprepared

The recruiter will ask you questions about yourself during the interview, but also about your ambitions and your knowledge of the company. Be prepared to answer questions about your goals, work ethic, and strengths and weaknesses. Good preparation before the interview will help you give honest and confident answers.

To help you prepare, read our article about frequently asked interview questions.

Not asking questions

A job interview is meant to be a back-and-forth process, not a one-way question round. You no doubt have questions of your own about the job and the company. Jot them down in advance and don’t be afraid to ask them during the interview.

Asking questions shows that you prepared well and are genuinely interested in the job. It’s also a great way to determine whether the job and the company are a good fit for you.

Reading from your CV

We know job interviews can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and to be yourself. Take some extra time to prepare and relax if you need to.

Whatever you do, try to be spontaneous and avoid reading straight from your CV. You know yourself and your career better than anyone. The interviewer’s job is to get to know the person behind the CV.

Speaking poorly of previous employers

Just because you're looking for a new job, doesn't mean you have to speak poorly about your current or past employers. While it’s perfectly fine to cite a negative experience or to explain the reason why you're looking for new work, do so in a way that shows respect for your current employer.

Discuss any grievances in a neutral way; a bad attitude reflects poorly on you. Plus, no one wants to hire a negative, frustrated person who could potentially bring down the work atmosphere.

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