You may have, at some point, wondered where you went wrong in an interview. Sometimes, in spite of your preparation, it may just seem like your effort is in vain. It isn’t. The reason could be that you weren’t qualified for the role they wanted, and that’s fine.

 

The worst thing that could happen is if you apply for a job you’re qualified for and still don’t get it. Even if you know the cheat sheet to ace a job interview, you just didn’t get the job. Don’t blame the cheat tips of acing interviews; blame the interview mistakes you may have made. Mistakes happen, so it’s advisable to know and avoid them. This will increase your chances of being employed.

 

Some of these mistakes seem minute and irrelevant while others are big. Either of these contributes to why some interviewees fail an interview while others ace them. You can be on the winning team if you learn to avoid them. Now, here are the biggest interview mistakes you need to look out for in an interview.

 

 

Eight Biggest Interview Mistakes You Should Avoid Making

1. Being late

The first and biggest mistake you could ever make is if you show up late. The Japanese believe a lot in the etiquette on being on time, and that’s one attribute you always need to adopt. Showing up late sends the wrong message that you’re not enthusiastic or committed to the job. You would lose your chance of getting the job before you even get the chance to prove your worth.

 

2. Poorly written resume

The second mistake you could make is in the content of your resume. You know what you’re applying for, so don’t let your resume be overly-general. Even before you arrive, your resume would be appraised. If it doesn’t fit the requirements, it would be ‘goodbye’ before the ‘hello’. Let them know the specifics of how your background would help them tackle their problems. By simply tailoring your resume to communicate how you’re fit for the role, you will help them separate the best — you — from the rest.

 

3. Being over ambitious

The third mistake is in over ambition. It’s good to seek career advancement, but don’t let them know that. If you do, extend the number of years if necessary. The interviewer wouldn’t give you the time of day if you inform him you would like to advance your career within a year. Why should you be hired if they would have to go through the hassle of rehiring again after you leave? Show some level of commitment.

 

4. Showcasing your weaknesses

Another mistake you could make is in revealing your weakness. This can be a huge disadvantage. The best way to tackle this is to make your weakness your strength. The only person who should know your weakness is your counsellor. Don’t go blabbing about home troubles or pet peeves to the interviewer.

 

 

5. Talking your former employer down

The fifth mistake is in talking down your old employer. Sure, it’s tempting to let the interviewer know they didn’t deserve you for some reason, but be careful. Even if your interviewer seems super cool and positive, don’t fall into the trap of saying how much you loathe your current or former boss. If that is difficult, find something positive to say. This is because they would most likely believe you’d do the same to your new boss if you get the job.

 

6. Not showing enthusiasm

You should also show some enthusiasm. Why would you apply for a job and go for the interview if you act as if you’d rather be somewhere else? You may be qualified on paper, but your attitude can impact your chances of nailing the job. Even if you hate the job, you can get referred to a better job eventually. That interviewer might be your referral.

 

7. Lying

The seventh mistake you could possibly make is by lying. A lot can be verified on the internet and, if something smells fishy in your CV or from what you’ve said, recruiters can verify it. The interviewer would easily scrap your resume once you’re caught in your ‘little white lie’.

 

8. Not following up

Finally, always follow-up even if you didn’t do your best at the interview. Doing this proves how passionate you are about getting the job. Thank the interviewer for the opportunity after the interview. Then follow-up with an email or a simple printed note within 48 hours of the interview.