You’ve made it to the interview stage of the hiring process! Congratulations! But you can’t relax quite yet. The interview is a chance for you and the employer to evaluate each other, and there are things you need to be mindful of as you prepare. Here are 10 things NOT to do – and some tips to make sure you succeed!
- Failing to research or know anything about the company or organization ahead of time.
The employer wants to know that you care enough to understand who they are, and the products, services and goals they strive to accomplish. While you will not know everything, it shows a lack of initiative and interest to know little about a potential employer. Can you answer the question, “Why do you want to work for us?” Make sure you have a sense of the organization’s goals, initiatives, and the way it sees itself before you interview.
- Arriving late to the interview and making no apologies.
The employer’s time is limited and valuable. It shows a lack of planning on your part to be late. Will this be your approach on the job? Extreme events do happen, and if this is the case you can make a phone call to the organization. Plan to arrive extra early and have a cup of coffee in a local shop.
- Greeting the interviewer with a less than enthusiastic and confident demeanor.
First impressions can be lasting impressions! Make sure your dress is appropriate; your facial expressions are welcoming (it is OK to smile); and your have a firm (but not a bone-crushing) handshake. Research the appropriate dress for the company environment. Better to be a little over-dressed than too casual. A firm handshake indicates confidence!
- Failing to make good eye contact.
Good eye contact says that you are listening, interested and establishes a positive rapport with the interviewer – but make sure you’re not staring at the interviewer. Try to relax and have a
conversation!
- Answering the questions in a long-winded manner.
Giving long drawn-out and rambling answers is not productive and leads to a lack of focus during the interview process.
- Neglecting to have fully evaluated your “selling points” for the position.
The interviewer is trying to determine how you might be helpful in a particular role and what you can add or bring that is new. What are your strengths? What have you done in the past that demonstrates your ability to be successful?
- Taking notes during the interview.
While this may seem an odd thing to do, some people feel that it shows their strong interest or they do not want to trust their memory about a particular topic. Remember the goal of the interview is to engage in a
conversation and convince the interviewer that you are the best candidate for the job.
- Failing to be able to answer the question “Tell me about yourself “ in a coherent and convincing manner.
The employer is really asking “Why should I hire you?” When framing your answer, think about why you are interested in this position. What skills and qualities do you have to be successful in this particular job with this organization? Keep it succinct but powerful! Depending on your years of experience, 90 seconds might do the job.
- Having no questions to ask the interviewer.
Come armed with several thoughtful questions. The questions might be related to the most challenging part of the job or the skill set that is most needed to be successful in this role. You might want to determine what issue or project might need your attention first. Avoid questions about salary until it is brought up. Do research so that you know the salary range for the position.
- Neglecting to send a follow-up thank-you note – email or hard
Thank the interviewer for his/her time and reiterate your interest in the position. Briefly highlight how you believe you might be of assistance in the role. If you forgot to mention some skill or initiative during the interview, very briefly highlight it.
Interviewing can be stressful – you want to make a good impression and assess whether the job is the right fit for you. By avoiding these pitfalls and taking my advice, you’re sure to give yourself a leg up and impress the interviewer.
