Interview mistakes to avoid

You have updated your CV, submitted your applications and you have landed the interview. One-step closer to getting the job, well do! Now preparation starts for the things you ought to do like; researching the company and practicing answers to possible questions, but what about the things you should not do. The drawbacks that might be standing between you and your next job?

It is like this: even if you have a great resume and you prepare a dynamite cover letter, you probably will not get the job if you fail in your job interview. Some managers might give you the 'benefit of the doubt' if you have impeccable qualifications but some will not. The interview is a critical part of the hiring process and the recruiter or hiring manager must feel that you are indeed an ideal candidate for the job before they can proceed to the 'next step' with you.

Here are things to avoid during the interview process.

Decorum
Unless you are applying for a highly specialized job with rare skills, then there is likely to be a hundred others applying for the same job as you are with the same qualification as yours. So what will make you stand out? Your decorum.

"Oh my Gosh, like thank you guys so much for meeting me! I can't even tell you how, like, excited I am to be here!" The way you speak during an interview forms part of that very crucial first impression and can make or break your chances. Coming across as authentic, professional, and 'well presented' can help you set yourself apart.

Avoid words such as mate, bro, and bae during an interview process, this includes slang and cursing. Remember that you only have one chance to make a good impression and you don't want to leave the interviewer conflicted about you.

Dominance
There is a thin line between confidence and domineering. You want to shy away from the latter. If you say 'but I have a strong personality and I tend to be domineering', well then this is a drawback that might be standing between you and your next job and you must 'work' on it. The easiest way to do it is to make sure that you are not leading the conversation - the whole time. Resist the urge and follow the interviewer's lead.

Coming across as too domineering may cause the interviewer to worry about how you will interact with other employees.

Apologetic
We all know that one individual who apologizes for everything. Even when there is no need. Can you imagine how you would come across to an interviewer if you apologized for everything? Not only would you come across as needy but also the interviewer might think you are unsure of your capabilities. Do not apologize for a 'lack of experience', not having a car, or not being able to answer a question right away. Avoid sob stories while you are at it, they make a weak first impression. 

During an interview, you want to speak the same language as the interviewer and understand each other amicably. You are likely to be speaking to this person for the first time so you do not want to send the wrong non-verbal cues. Being called for an interview is a big deal and you want to show the interviewer that you are indeed the right candidate. If you are not interested in them, they will certainly not demonstrate an interest in you either.

Communicate Recruitment is a specialist recruitment company with over 3 decades of experience. Our candidates look to us for reliable career advice, assistance, and guidance through the interview and hiring process. Visit our website and apply today.