Job interviews are often your best
chance of showing that you are the right person for the job. But even if you
have all of the ideal experience and talent, if you make a big misstep in the interview, you’ll be
passed over for someone else—even if that someone is slightly less qualified
than you are.
Here are the top 4 mistakes to avoid
making. Make sure you don’t give the wrong impression to your interviewer and
end up looking less qualified than you actually are!
1.
Admitting your nerves
You might think that saying you’re
so nervous might make you look human and sincere, and while it might be
endearing in another social situation, it’s not a very good strategy for
interviewing. Remember, you’re supposed to be showing yourself in the most
professional, calm-under-pressure, capable light. Besides, if you’re so nervous
at the interview, it gives them the chance to imagine you being nervous in the
office. Keep calm and fake confidence!
2.
Not preparing
Make sure that you know who is
interviewing you, what their role is, what the company does, what you’d be doing—all
the basics. Then make sure you have a list of questions ready for when
you’re asked what questions you might have. (Then make sure not to ask
any of your questions that could be answered by a quick Google). Basically, do your homework. It really shows when you don’t.
3.
One word answers
No matter how simple the question
seems, you should be prepared to elaborate. Remember, every question is a
chance for you to shine. Also to cram in details and anecdotes about how much
butt you kicked at your last job. Get your selling points across!
4.
Not asking questions
That whole “Do you have any
questions for us?” question is not a formality. This is another opportunity for
you to go above and beyond—or to fall flat. Make sure, as above, not to ask any
questions that could have been answered by doing your proper homework. Be as
prepared and as confident and comfortable as possible and it will feel more
like a conversation. Try to come up with interesting, engaging questions in
advance that ideally show off the level of preparation you’ve put into your
interview.
