3 Common Interview Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them!)
Applying for new jobs is a stressful endeavor. It’s even more nerve-wracking to score an interview and know your future is riding on your performance in said interview.
If it’s been a while since you’ve been a prospective employee, you need to keep reading. We’re going to teach you all the interview mistakes to avoid if you want to learn how to nail an interview.
1. Not Sounding or Looking Confident
Interviews are nerve-wracking, we get it. The biggest mistake you can make at your interview is acting doubtful about your ability to perform well. When you come across as confident, your prospective employer will put more trust in your abilities.
Sometimes people may be qualified for the job, but they don’t interview well. If you don’t make a great first impression, you could lose the job. If this has been the case for you in the past, we recommend investing in media training.
Your coach will provide one-on-one training to boost your confidence before your next interview.
Even if you don’t feel confident, faking it will make you more attractive as a prospective employee.
Make natural eye contact. Sit up straight. Present a firm handshake.
Prepare for your interview in advance so you already have answers to questions they may ask.
2. Not Dressing the Part
One of the most common interview mistakes is dressing too casually. Hang your lululemon tights back up in the closet and put on a nice pair of slacks. Even if you’re interviewing for a company with a casual dress code, put on your business attire for the interview.
When you show up in nice clothing, you’re showing your prospective employer that you’re serious about the role. You will look more professional and will make a better first impression.
3. Not Acting Interested in the Job
One of the best interview tips we can give you is to act excited about the prospect of scoring the job. Come into the interview ready to listen to what the employer has to tell you. Show up early to prove you’re ready to carry your share of the workload when you get the job.
You’ll get bonus points if you research the company before walking in for your interview. Read their website to learn more about their history and mission statement. This shows your prospective employer that you’re eager to learn.
The biggest no-no in a job interview is reaching for your cellphone. Nothing shows disinterest and disrespect like glancing down at your phone when someone is talking to you (interviewer or not). Yet one-third of millennials believe it’s acceptable to send texts while interviewing.
Avoid Interview Mistakes to Secure Your New Job
If you ignore the above interview mistakes, the chances of landing your dream job will skyrocket. Show enthusiasm for the position and use common sense to make a lasting impression on your potential employer.
Keep reading our blogs for more business and lifestyle tips.
