Bad Interview Habits?

When you’re interviewing for a new job, you’re likely aware of the common pitfalls that you should absolutely avoid. There are so many obvious dos and don’ts for a job interview, but what about the interview habits that seem smart but are hurting your chances at getting that offer letter?

1. Arriving to your interview inexplicably early.

Showing up 20 minutes late to an interview is an absolute no-no. In this instance persons will tend to show up too early. Surprisingly, you may think that arriving early is the best thing when all it is really doing is placing stress on the interviewer’s shoulders, for the reason being that they do not want you to wait a long period of time for them. If you decide to arrive early, walk over to a nearby coffee shop and give your notes another view.

2. Hitting the nervous button.

Admitting to the interviewer that you are nervous is definitely a bad idea. The interviewer understands job interviews are no fun, however, you want to present yourself as a confident candidate even if your palms are sweating. You should always exude as much confidence as possible — and if not, fake it until you make it!

3. Assuming that the interviewer is your friend.

In the present time, it is normal for individuals to do a little research on social media on your interviewer and their personal life. Even if they seem that they are the coolest person you have ever met, under no circumstances should you slip out of your professional side at any time during the interview.

4. Dressing too formal — or too informal.

First impressions are key! Dressing down pre-interview will initiate an awkward conversation, but it is highly crucial. However, if you are in a creative field, wearing a full suit is not the best option. A good reminder for office attire is to try to keep with the overall tone of the field and office atmosphere that you are interviewing in. It also does not hurt to call and ask before time.

5. Telling the interviewer what you think they want to hear.

It is not such a great idea to blatantly lie about anything on your resumé but the concept of telling the interviewer what they want to hear is not a good thing. On such an occasion it may feel like a good idea, seemingly if it is tiny, such as a minor exaggeration of your skills level. However, it is not honest of yourself to provide an inaccurate profile of who you are. Eventually in the end, the truth will somehow find its way to the surface.

6. You’re too honest.

Unfortunately, being too honest is just as bad as not being honest. In an interview you should never speak rude of your previous boss, no matter how bad they were. This will have your potential new boss wondering whether if you will say the same things about them when you are ready to resign. This regards your current company, colleagues, or boss.

7. You use too many buzzwords.

There are certain buzzwords we all use in a job interview that we know sound great but might not actually mean anything. Saying things like “I’m a team player!” or “I’m detail-oriented!” sound super positive, but are really just filler unless you’ve got solid proof to back them up. If you’re going to use these buzzy terms, make sure you have solid anecdotal evidence to go along with them, like the time you took one for the team on a major work project, or a specific way you’re dedicated to finite details in your position.

8. You’re an eager beaver.

While it’s never a good idea to seem too cool in a job interview, it’s also not a good idea to be overly enthusiastic either. Interviewers want to see a candidate that is engaged and excited about the position, but being too eager can read a little bit desperate. Treat the interview like an authentic conversation, and you’ll be much likelier to get a true feel for the company and your possible new colleagues, instead of trying to dazzle them with your charm and wit.

Now print out those resumes and go get that job of your dreams! You’ve got this.

Heidi