You should be aware of the most common blunders job candidates make. That way, you can avoid making these mistakes during your next interview and demonstrate to your potential employer that you’re a top-quality candidate.
Showing up late
Employers want to know that they can trust you to show up for work on time. If you’re late to your interview, you’re demonstrating poor time-management skills.
Ideally, you should arrive at an interview at least ten minutes early. Try to leave for your interview as soon as possible. That way, if you run into traffic or other setbacks, you’ll still arrive at your interview with time to spare.
Unprofessional attire
Even if an employer has a casual dress code, you’ll want to look polished during your interview. Wearing professional clothing is important, and it’s just as essential to make sure that your clothing is cleaned and pressed before the interview.
In addition to choosing an appropriate outfit, you should make sure you’re well-groomed for your interview. Plus, you should stay away cologne, perfume, or heavily-scented aftershave; many people are sensitive to fragrance.
Being unprepared
You need to study for an interview the same way you’d study for a big exam. Learn about the company that’s interviewing you. Look at common interview questions so that you can think about what you want to say ahead of time.
If you’re struggling to answer questions during an interview, potential employers aren’t going to be impressed. Set aside some time so that you can get ready for your big interview.
Bringing a snack or drink
There’s nothing wrong with grabbing a cup of coffee before your interview. However, you’ll want to make sure you dispose of that beverage before your interview starts.
Bringing a snack or drink into an interview with you can make you look unprofessional. It can also be a distraction. You’ll want to maintain eye contact and stay focused on the people that are interviewing you, so keep your snacks and beverages in your car; don’t bring them along for the interview.
Zoning out
The person or people interviewing you should have your undivided attention. If you have to ask your interviewer to repeat a question, you could lose out on a job.
It can be hard to focus on an interview, especially when you’re tired or nervous. However, if you look like you’re not paying attention, employers will think you don’t care about the job.
Also, make sure to silence your phone before your interview starts so that you can stay fully engaged while the interview is happening.
Rambling
You should try to give detailed answers to every question an interviewer asks you. However, you shouldn’t ramble and tell them things that they don’t need to know.
Even if an interviewer is friendly, they don’t want to hear stories about your children, and they don’t want to listen to you badmouth your former employers. They want to hear why you’re qualified for the job. Keep to the point when you’re answering questions.
If you put your best foot forward during job interviews, you’ll be hired before you know it! Staffing Proxy can help you find positions that you’re qualified for. Check our job listings today to see available openings.
