How to avoid the top six most common job interview mistakes

It’s essential to use an interview to showcase your best qualities and ensure you’re memorable for all the right reasons. Here are the mistakes made time and time again by candidates.

1. Failing to prepare

By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. Think about the questions you’ll be asked and go to the interview with a few anecdotes to show off your experience. Go the extra mile when researching the company – find out everything you possibly can. Familiarise yourself with the company’s online presence and make sure to research your interviewers on LinkedIn and Twitter.

2. Asking no questions

To an employer, no questions signal no interest. An interview is a two-way street, you should ask questions as well as answer them. This is your chance to assess if this company is a good employer so ask the questions that occurred to you as you were doing your pre-interview research.

3. Dressing inappropriately

The general rule of thumb is formal clothing. First impressions are, by definition, instant; before you have had a chance to discuss your experience, you have already been judged on your appearance. Play it safe and go for a suit; smart attire will demonstrate that you can fit into a professional environment.

4. Criticising previous employers

You may have bad personal feelings about current/previous employers but never bad-mouth them in an interview. You don’t want to give a potential employer the impression that you’re difficult to work with. Be diplomatic and don’t draw attention to negative aspects of your current/previous job.

5. Talking too much or too little

Don’t talk yourself out of a job. Stay composed and think before you answer, you don’t want to bore the interviewer. Make sure you give enough information but don’t waffle and miss the point.

6. Negative body language

Body language can have a significant impact on how you’re perceived so think about how you express yourself. Maintain eye contact, sit up straight and mirror your interviewer. Be sure to smile, too!

Learn how to impress your interviewer in our blog: How to impress in your interview.