Books and websites are full of examples of what to do when being interviewed for a job. Equally important, but less frequently cited, are tips on what to avoid. Here are some of the more subtle mistakes that should be avoided if you really want to get the job.
MISTAKE: Don’t Bother to Learn the Interviewer’s Name
CORRECT: Dale Carnegie, who made millions telling people how to make friends and influence people, maintained that a person’s favorite word is his or her name. Make a point to learn the names of those who will be interviewing you and use them once or twice in each conversation. But this is not the occasion to use a first name.
MISTAKE: Relax and Sit Back
CORRECT: You need to be alert and look energetic during the interview. Don’t just plop back in your chair. One noted career writer advises candidates to sit toward the front edge of the chair, so as to look interested.
MISTAKE: Knock Former Employer from the Interviewer
CORRECT: If you criticize former employers, schools or colleges, or other organizations from your past you come off as a generally negative person. People prefer to work with optimists, not pessimists.
MISTAKE: Expect to Learn all about the Employer from the Interview
CORRECT: Nothing makes you look less interested in a job than your lack of prior research on the organization. Learn all you can about the employer, and know why you want to go to work for the organization. Your demonstrated interest should be reflected on the interviewer’s rating sheet.
MISTAKE: Assume the Interviewer Will Dominate the Conversation
CORRECT: You should participate actively in the interview, not just listen or respond briefly. You and the interviewer should each talk around half the time. However, when speak, keep it short and allow the interviewer to interrupt with questions, comments, etc.
MISTAKE: Move Quickly to Ask About Money
CORRECT: If you ask about salary or fringe benefits before a mutual interest has developed, the interviewer may think that your primary interest is money, not a job with a good future. Once the organization expresses interest in hiring you, salary and other financial information should be forthcoming.
MISTAKE: Limit Your Role to Answering Questions
CORRECT: Interviews are two-way conversations. You should be prepared to ask one or two questions yourself, so have several good questions in mind before the interview starts.
MISTAKE: Purchase a Brand-New Wardrobe for the Interviewer.
CORRECT: It’s important to dress appropriately for the interviewer, but if everything you wear looks like it’s being worn for the first time, the employer may think that you don’t belong in their world. Dress well and carefully, but avoid the impression the your clothes just came out of the box.