9 Common Mistakes You Should Avoid at a Job Interview

  • 13 October 2021
  • 4 minutes read

Regardless of how great your resume looks like, what counts the most is the first impression you will make at the job interview. Wondering what are some of the Dos and Don’ts you should consider when preparing?

Check out our article on how to nail a job interview. Read on to find out some of the common mistakes you should avoid in order to make the first best impression. In this article, Denisa Popescu, Recruitment Lead at Majorel shares 9 common mistakes you should avoid, to help you get one step closer to the job you truly want!

interview mistakes

  1. Being unprepared

This is the first and the foremost thing you should keep in mind! Do proper research on the industry, the company, your potential team, and obtain all the relevant information. Also, take a fresh look at your resume, so that while giving answers to the questions, you sound confident, specific, and relevant.

  1. Turning up late (or too early)

Showing up late immediately establishes a bad impression in the eyes of the interviewers. Try not to turn up too early as well,  just be punctual.

  1. Dressing inappropriately

It’s not necessary to wear a suit and tie and be excessively formal. Just try to choose professional, business-casual outfit with minimal flashy accessories. Look neat and appropriate. 

  1. Exaggerating on your resume

Don’t exaggerate or falsify any information on your resume. The interviewers might discuss anything what’s on your resume, so if you are caught lying, this will negatively reflect on your reputation. Try to be as specific and accurate, as possible.

  1. Showing lack of enthusiasm

Sometimes candidates attend interviews without showing any excitement or passion to get the job. Be enthusiastic and motivated. Greet everyone with kindness and a smile and show them how much you want to become a part of their team.

  1. Using inappropriate language and/or body language

Interviewers will evaluate both your spoken and body language. When speaking, avoid using excessive slang and try to keep the formal tone of voice. As for the body language, try to sit straight, don’t cross your arms and maintain direct eye contact with the interviewers. This will help you look more self-assured.

  1. Focusing too much on the salary

Talking about your salary is encouraged, but don’t focus too much on it. This might make the interviewers think that the money is your top priority. Discuss your salary when you are asked about it and back up your salary expectation with solid arguments.

  1. Not asking questions

Interviewers will ask you lots of questions, but you should also ask them what you find interesting about the industry, company and/or the team. Don’t be shy to speak up. Even if your questions seem too obvious for them, keep in mind that you are not yet part of the company and plus, there are no such things as stupid questions.

  1. Not following up

Before the interview is over, ask your interviewers about the following steps. Find out what’s expected next in the recruitment process, what’s the estimated timeframe for hiring, etc. Don’t forget to thank the interviewers before leaving and follow up by email if there are any open topics that need further follow-up from your side.

Good luck!

If you’d like to get more career guidance in the recruitment process, check out our articles here with helpful HR tips and advice. We’re leaving you with some suggestions:

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