Having experienced many of these scenarios hundreds of time, a quick review of some basic interview mistakes can help lead to a successful outcome. Everything counts in a job search and the impression you make during the interview is key to whether you will get hired. Some of the more common ways candidates trip themselves up include the following. Arriving too early for your interview. Though not as bad as showing up late, arriving more than 10 minutes before your appointment can be a problem. The interviewer may feel pressured to see you at that moment, even though they are not ready. Arrive in the parking lot earlier than 10 minutes and review your notes, say positive affirmations, and visualize how excellent the interview is going to go.
Bad mouthing a past boss or employer. Everyone in the industry may know your boss is a problem or that a company is not a great place to work at, but if you say so during an interview you will come across negatively. If asked directly about an employer or a past manager, always say something positive.
Pressuring the interviewer. If the interviewer says they will be making a decision about the position in the next few weeks, you should say "I will check back". If you have another offer, tell them, but do not try to pressure them into making a decision on the spot.
Failing to follow up. The interviewer said that he or she would get back to you in a few days but you have not heard from them. Do not make any assumptions about the status of the opening, or that they are not interested in you. If you have not heard back from the Hiring Manager, Recruiter, or HR person, be sure to at least send them an email or call them to let them know that you are still interested and to check on the status. Do not follow up with them every other day. Job offers can come at anytime, including the same day or in a month.
Talking too much or too little. Do not try to pin the interviewer down by not letting him/her ask his/her questions. The interviewer will not like this at all. Follow, rather than lead the interview. This will help the interview go smoothly. If you do more than half the taking, you may come across as a pushy person with no listening skills. One of the most important pieces of advice we can offer is to have questions for the interviewers. Saying "No" when asked if you have any questions is a proven way to not get hired. If needed, write them down and bring them with you to the interview. It is perfectly acceptable and appropriate to pull out a list of questions.
Dressing or behaving too casually. The company atmosphere may be very casual, but job candidates are still expected to dress and behave formally. Show Respect! Going to an interview in a causal outfit when conservative attire is expected, can sink your chances for a call back.
Researching the company poorly. You cannot be expected to know every aspect of a company that you are interviewing with, but if you are interviewing with a company that is somewhat known you should be able to obtain information regarding its products. If nothing else, read through the company's website thoroughly, and not just the career section.
Asking about salary and benefits. When you are asked if you have any questions during an interview, do not ask about salary and benefits until there has been a basic determination that you are fit for the job. Usually the interview will tell you. When completing an employment application, always be up front regarding your current pay situation. Never leave the salary section blank. Whether or not it is a company's business to know your current or past pay, all companies will require this information at some point. Not providing this information when asked will make you appear untrustworthy, especially if they ask you and you argue why you do not wish to disclose it. Do not worry that disclosing your current or past salary will hurt your chances of getting the pay you desire. There is a proper point in the hiring process to negotiate pay and it is your prerogative to ask for what you want. Get the job first before making pay an issue.
Choosing the wrong job. Some people interview at companies to see what they are worth, some for purposes of touching up their interview skills, the list goes on… Remember that a company will remember you if you have wasted its time and resources. Be very clear on what type of position you are looking for and the reason behind it. Do not interview for the sake of interviewing.
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