by Carole Martin, The Interview Coach
You have, no doubt, watched movie or TV bloopers at the end of shows and laughed at the mistakes the actors make during the filming of the show. If I could put together a film with bloopers that people make in interviews it might seem funny as well ” but not when it happens in real life – to you!
I’m going to help you avoid your interview bloopers. First you become aware of what some of the pitfalls of interviewing are and then you prepare and practice so that it wont happen to you. Here are 10 of those very pitfalls to watch for.
1. Slouching ” fidgeting ” lack of eye contact, the poor non-verbal communication
Its about demonstrating confidence – standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.
2. Casual attire does not show much interest in the company, nor the job. Not dressing for the job or company could be a big mistake.
It is important to look professional and well groomed, above all. Todays casual dress codes in the office, do not give you permission to dress as they do when you interview. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible, call and find out what the company dress code is before the interview.
3. Worrying about what you are going to say and not listening to the interviewer
If you are not listening to the interviewer, turning up your intuitive, you are missing a major opportunity. From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what they said. Observe your interviewer and match that style and pace.
4. Telling it all ” even if its not relevant – talking too much
Telling the interviewer more than they need to know could be a fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of time you may tend to ramble, sometimes talking yourself right out of the job. Prepare for the interview by reading through the job posting; matching your skills with the requirements of the position, and relating only that information.
5. Your new best friend is NOT the interviewer – being over-familiar
The job interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making a new friend. The level of familiarity should mimic the demeanor of the interviewer. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview, and to ask questions, but not to over-step your place as a candidate looking for a job.
6. Have you ever said, “you ‘guys’ know what I mean?” Using inappropriate language in the interview will not help.
Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences ” these topics could get the door slammed very quickly. Its a given that you should use professional language during the interview.
7. Acting cocky ” being overconfident ” king of the hill
Even if youre putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, over-doing is as bad, if not worse, as being too reserved. Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty.
8. Not listening to be able to answer the question asked ” jumping in without thinking
When an interviewer asks for an example of a time, you did something, she is seeking a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a specific example, you not only dont answer the question, but you miss an opportunity to prove your ability and tell about your skills.
9. A missed opportunity you will live to regret – not asking questions
It is extremely important to ask questions in the job interview. When asked if they have any questions, the majority of candidates answer, No. Wrong answer! It demonstrates an interest in what goes on in the company. It also gives you the opportunity to find out if this is the right place for you. The best questions come from listening to what is asked during the interview, and asking for additional information.
10. Appearing desperate ” Please, please hire me!
Its a tough job market, and you need a job! When you interview with the Please, please, hire me, approach you appear desperate and less confident. Maintain the three Cs during the interview: Cool, Calm, and Confident! You know you can do the job, ” now, make sure the interviewer believes you can, too.
Everybody makes mistakes ” thats what makes us human. We can laugh at ourselves a great deal of the time when we get tongue-tied or forget someones name ” even our spouses. But in the interview you want to be as prepared and polished as possible. If you do make a mistake, consider it a human error and learn from the experience. In the meantime do your homework and get prepared.
About the Author:
Carole Martin is America’s #1 interview coach. Her books, “Interview Fitness Training Workbook” and “Boost Your Interview IQ” have sold thousands of copies world-wide. Interview coming up? Get access to a free practice interview
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