Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve all heard horror stories of interviews that have gone very wrong.  Here are some common mistakes you should keep in mind (and try to avoid!) during an interview:

Bad Timing

Arriving late to an interview is a definite faux pas, but arriving too early can also be a deal breaker too. Always plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time, but not much more than that. And remember, planning out your route before you leave the house will help you avoid showing up late to an interview.

Unprofessional Appearance

As mentioned before, always wear clean, freshly pressed business-appropriate clothes to a job interview. If you’re a smoker, avoid smoking directly before the interview, in case the potential employer is sensitive to the smell of smoke. It’s also a good idea to forgo perfume or cologne, in case the company has a scent-free policy or the interviewer is allergic. Finally, make sure your shoes aren’t giving the wrong impression.  Wear clean, professional dress shoes that complement your outfit without distracting from it.

Using Cell Phones

You won’t need your cell phone immediately before or after your interview, so it’s best just to turn it off completely while you’re there.  A cell phone ringing or vibrating is distracting to both you and the person you’re meeting with, and looks unprofessional. In some cases, the employer may even feel disrespected.

Badmouthing Former Employers

Speaking poorly of a previous employer tells an interviewer that you will probably do the same to your next one – which could be them.  Avoid telling stories that aren’t relevant to the workplace. Don’t give in to gossip or negativity during your interview – or ever. If asked what you didn’t like about your previous job, answer honestly but professionally. Keep your answer simple and to the point, without turning to gossip or drama.