You’ve updated your resume… double-checked your LinkedIn page…and lined up your references. Seems like you’re prepared to land that perfect job. But, once again, you’ve interviewed and been rejected.
If you’re interviewing a lot without success, you may be sabotaging yourself by being a bad interviewer.
If this is you, you’re not alone. It’s hard to imagine anything more stressful than an interview. You can do feel good about your job skills but get into a room (or onto a video conference) with a hiring manager who has power over your professional future, and the nerves take over.
Unfortunately, it’s easy to make interviewing blunders without even realizing it. The following five mistakes are common – but can sink your chances. The good news is they can be easily fixed to feel confident about your next interview and land the job!
Talking Negatively About your Former Employer
When you say something negative about your former (or current) company, you look angry, bitter and like someone who could not get along in that environment. The interviewer will wonder if you’ll have the same problems again if they hire you. More importantly, it makes you look disloyal, which raises many red flags in an interview.
Being Late
Everyone knows that first impressions are very important in landing a job. Whether your meeting is in person or online, ”running late” not only suggests poor time management skills but a lack of respect for the company, the position, and even your interviewer. Go the extra length to make sure that you aren’t late. Budget your time, so you arrive for the interview at least ten minutes early.
Not Doing Your Homework
Don’t let your potential employer stump you with the question, “What do you know about our company?” Background information, including company history, locations, divisions and a mission statement, are available on virtually all company websites. You can also use online sites such as LinkedIn to better understand the company. Review the info ahead of time, then print it out and read it just before your interview to refresh your memory. Preparation is the key if you want to make a great impression!
Checking your Phone
This comes out of the “Rudeness 101” playbook. Before your interview starts, silence your phone. Having your phone go off during your interview is not only rude and disruptive, but it’s a pretty clear message to your potential employer that getting the job is not your top priority. Better to stow your phone in your bag before you enter the interview.
Talking Too Much
There’s nothing much worse for a hiring manager than interviewing someone who goes on and on. Keep your answers succinct and to-the-point. Don’t get sidetracked and start talking about your personal life—your spouse, home life, or children are not topics you should delve into. No matter how genial your interviewer may be, an interview is a professional situation—not a personal one.
A Final Word
A job interview is something to take very seriously. Mastering the above elements can provide you with the confidence to ensure you come across professionally – and make you more likely to get the job.
Ready to advance your career?
Management Registry, Inc. has the proven network and experience to help you find the perfect fit. Contact us today, and let’s find the right position that reflects your skills.