Getting a job interview can be an exciting and overwhelming experience, especially for fresh graduates. Your interview can make or break your chance of landing your dream job, so it is important that you try to make a great impression on your future employer. Here are some things that you need to avoid during your interview.
Being unprepared
In addition to knowing the basics about the company you’re applying to work for, you need to understand how they operate, their mission and vision, their competitors, and their current position in the industry. You can also check recent articles or press releases about them and use this information as talking points during your interview. Without doing your homework, you won’t be able to show your potential employer how you can be a great addition to their company. Remember to research possible interview questions so that you can craft your responses early on.
Asking for the salary
At any point during your interview, you should never ask your interviewer what your expected salary will be. If you show that you are more interested in how much you will be earning rather than proving to your potential employer that you fit the job position, expect that your interview will not progress any further.
Arriving late or too early
Turning up late for your interviewer can ruin your chance of getting hired. Tardiness implies that you do not value your interviewer’s time, and you are not interested in securing the position. On the other hand, arriving too early is also not an option. Being too early can cause inconvenience to your interviewer, and they might think that you are too desperate for the job. Try to arrive at least five minutes early, and if you happen to come earlier than that, consider waiting inside your car.
Not dressing professionally and poor body language
While some companies might allow smart casual outfits in the workplace, it would be best to wear a professional outfit to your interview. Avoid wearing skimpy clothing, oversized accessories, and improper footwear during your interview. Go with business-appropriate attire and make sure that your clothes are neat and clean.
Moreover, you need to be careful with your body language. Avoid fidgeting with your hands or carelessly touching items on the table. Make sure to establish eye contact with your interviewer, be conscious of your posture, and maintain a positive demeanor when answering questions.
Answering your phone or not putting it to silent mode
Always remember to put your phone in silent mode before your interview and avoid answering any phone call. Checking your phone constantly is a sign of disrespect to your interviewer. Your best option is to put it away in your bag and avoid using it until after the interview is over.
Saying negative things about your previous company
Avoid expressing frustration with your former employer or colleagues during the interview. While some of your complaints might seem valid, airing dirty laundry will surely ruin your chances of getting the position. Remember to be professional when answering questions and avoid discussing personal problems.
Forgetting your resume
Never arrive empty-handed during your job interview. Ensure that you have enough copies of your resume, and don’t forget to include your references. Make sure that you know all the details written on it and never fabricate any information. Take the time to update your resume and consider taking additional online courses such as safety training courses before your job interview. Doing so will show your potential employer that you are constantly searching for ways to improve your skills and abilities.
Remember to avoid making these mistakes and do your best to show your future employer why you are an excellent fit for their organization.