Common interview mistakes and how to avoid them
No interview is perfect, but a few simple fixes can take your performance from average to memorable.
No interview is perfect, but there are some common mistakes that can turn a great interview into a bad one.
Research shows that 1 in 3 hiring managers know within the first 90 seconds whether they will hire someone.
As a result, avoiding common interview mistakes is essential to maximise your success. However, so many great candidates are unsuccessful at job interviews because they make a few common mistakes that can create a bad impression. Plus, these mistakes aren't even difficult to fix. With a few quick changes, you can go from making an average first impression to one that will leave you lingering on the interviewer's mind.
In this article, we'll cover what these interview mistakes are and how you can fix them once and for all.
Key Takeaways
- Research shows that 1 in 3 hiring managers know within the first 90 seconds whether they will hire someone.
- Positive body language begins the moment you walk through the door — not when the interview officially starts.
- Asking great questions at the end of an interview demonstrates commercial awareness and sets you apart from other candidates.
1. Poor body language
The interview begins the second you enter the office. We recommend:
- Entering with a smile.
- Greeting the receptionist with a smile.
- Making an effort to have small talk with the receptionist.
- Greeting any employees you see.
- Giving a firm handshake.
- Remembering people's names.
These all demonstrate positive body language and make that all important first impression even stronger. Sometimes, interviewers will ask other employees you came into contact with what they thought of you, even if they weren't present for the actual interview. Remember, these people could be your future work colleagues, so always greet them with positive body language.
2. Not doing your research
It's very obvious when a candidate hasn't done their research. Interviewers will likely ask interview questions related to the company as a way of checking who and who hasn't done their research.
Always make sure you research the company beforehand, and arm yourself with a couple of questions you'd like to ask. We recommend focusing your research around recent company news, the company's mission, and the company's values.
3. Dressing inappropriately
Being well-dressed for an interview is essential so choose your outfit carefully. Some companies will tell you what the dress code is, others will let you decide.
Additionally, the dress code can also depend on the company. For law firms and more corporate roles, smart dress is always preferred. If you are interviewing at more creative companies, the dress code might be more relaxed. However, always dress on the smarter side just to be safe, as it will make a greater first impression.
4. Criticising previous or current employers
Maybe you're interviewing for a new job to escape one you dislike, but don't let this come across in the interview. Being too heavily critical of current or previous employers might leave the interviewer with a sour taste, and makes them question what you'd say about them in similar circumstances.
Instead, acknowledge some of the challenges you are facing in your current role, but be diplomatic. For example, a great thing to say is:
"I'm very grateful for my current employer, but I noticed that the progression opportunities don't match what I'm looking for long-term. As a result, I want to join a company that has more progression opportunities."
This answer highlights why you're looking for a new role without heavily criticising your current employer.
5. Not asking questions
The most important part of an interview is when the interviewer concludes their questioning of you and asks: "Do you have any questions for me?"
We understand, the interviewer has finished their questioning and you probably want to leave as quickly as possible, but don't leave this opportunity on the table. Asking great questions can turn an average interview into a great one, as doing so…
- Demonstrates commercial awareness
- Shows that you've done your research
- Allows you to find out more about the company
Check out our guide on the top 7 questions to ask in a job interview.
6. Talking too much
Waffling is a common interview mistake lots of candidates make. It's perfectly normal to be nervous during an interview – you want to impress the interviewer as much as possible. However, being nervous can lead to unintentional waffling, something you want to avoid.
To avoid waffling, practice your answers to common interview questions using the STAR method. The STAR method is a structured technique for answering behavioural interview questions. Using it to structure your answers makes them easier to follow and more impactful.
Also, if you are nervous and your mind goes blank, it's fine to ask for thirty seconds to think about a question before you answer. Jumping straight in when your mind is blank leads to a much lower quality response.
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