Ten Things to Avoid in a Job Interview

Being invited for an interview is proof that your application has been successfully received and evaluated by the HR managers and recruiters. You do not want to mess up the good background you already laid down by performing poorly in the interview. A lot of candidates who are quite mature and confident tend to get agitated and flustered when called for an interview and then end up messing it up. This can be a really nerve-wracking experience, as a lot of things can immediately undo someone. Therefore, having a good understanding of things not to do when going for your interview can put you on edge and make you excel at it.

When eventually called for an interview, you are required to score certain points, which will take you a step closer to getting your dream job by performing excellently at the interview. There are certain factors to take into consideration that can help give yourself a better chance at having a successful interview. In this article, we will be discussing some of the things to avoid in a job interview.

Ten Things To Avoid In A Job Interview

Showing Up Late

Upon getting an invitation for an interview, you should immediately begin preparations for the D-day. Unless you are faced with an emergency situation that cannot be avoided and which is understandable, showing up late at an interview will show a red flag to your potential employer, thereby reducing your chances of getting employed. It is essential to adequately plan ahead regarding your travel plans for the interview. If the venue is reasonably far from your house, plan to wake up early to catch an early bus or drive to the venue in order to avoid traffic that might affect your movement. Also, if you will be taking a virtual interview, ensure that you test the device that you plan on using for the interview before the stipulated time. With this, you will be able to detect any errors that might hinder the smooth running of the interview.

Going In Without Performing A Proper Research

Many people appear overconfident in their abilities to do an excellent job for the company, but they fail to conduct adequate research on the company where the interview will take place. To be one step ahead of other candidates, try to research the company, either physical or online, by checking their online page or social media platforms. Put in mind their core values and look for an opportunity to mention them during the interview, as this will stir up the interviewer’s interest in you. You can also do some research on their competition and some key players in the market. With this, you are able to ask smart questions, and this will differentiate you from the other applicants. Researching the hiring manager too does not seem to be a bad idea. You might end up figuring out one or two things that you have in common. And this will play well for you during your interview.

Dress Appropriately

While the world seems to be evolving day by day, with various trends coming up in the fashion industry. A lot of people now prefer to go for the smart-casual style of dressing rather than the professional style of dressing. As a candidate going for an interview, ensure you are professionally dressed, as this is still the most considered and appropriate business etiquette for interviews. One thing you should take note of is that when it comes to interviews, first impressions matter a lot. Ensure that your clothes are appropriately ironed and your shoes are neat. With this, you can be sure to be confident throughout the interview.

Speaking Negatively About Past Or Current Employer

No matter how bad or ineffectual the situation is with your former or current employer, never complain or speak in a negative manner concerning them, as this will not reflect positively on your personality. Ensure that you reframe from saying negative comments about where you worked, as this might stir up an imagination that you might be the one with the problem rather than your employer, thereby reducing your chances of getting employed.

Having No Question To Ask Your Interviewer

When going for an interview, it is important to know that your employers or hiring managers will want to put your level of interest to the test. Therefore, avoid going for an interview without having prepared some questions to ask. You can choose to inquire about specific roles, things you learned about the company through personal research, or even the department you will be working with if hired. You can consider writing them down or even printing them out, as this will prevent you from forgetting them in between the interviews. By showing your interviewer or hiring manager a higher level of interest through your questions, you are able to create a wonderful first impression. Also, the answers will give you a better understanding of your roles and how the company works.

Getting Too Friendly Or Personal

Having a great sense of humor and friendliness is not a bad idea when at an interview, but you need to avoid being too casual. Put in mind that your employer might eventually become your manager, or your hiring manager will be sending their feedback to your potential employer. So, ensure you behave in a respectful and friendly manner and always be professional in all you do.

Lying On Your CV And At Your Interviewer

While writing your CV, avoid adding information that is not true to it, as you might not know the basis upon which you were called for the interview. Anything your interviewer sees on your CV can be discussed during the interview, so avoid fabricating your work experience or educational record, as this might negatively affect your chances of getting employed. Also, if you are working with a recruiter, this will be added to your file, which will hinder your chances of getting a role through the agency. So, ensure that you avoid presenting incorrect information or facts in an interview.

Answering A Call Or Message During An Interview

Another important thing to avoid in an interview is receiving calls or replying to texts during the interview. By engaging in such an act, you are indirectly sending a message to your interviewer about your unseriousness. Therefore, the best way to avoid such a situation is to immediately turn off your phone when called in for the interview.

Discussing Money Or Time Off

Unless a money-related offer is made during the interview, avoid bringing up the subject or requesting annual leave for an upcoming holiday. This will put you in a very tight spot, as you will be seen as an unserious candidate who is not fit for the job. It is advisable that you leave such matters for later interview rounds and focus more on how to impress your hiring manager first.

No Thank You or Follow Up

No matter how the interview turned out, ensure that you email your interviewer or hiring manager a couple of hours after finishing the interview. With this, you get a better chance to show your interest in getting the job.

Conclusion

Here are ten things to keep in mind during a job interview, from the long list of things to avoid. By following through with them, you can be sure to have a splendid and successful interview.