You’ve searched all the job sites, you’ve polished up your CV, you’ve applied for every job under the sun, and it’s paid off – you’ve got loads of interviews lined up. But one by one, you keep getting turned down for the job. It sounds like something’s going wrong during your interviews. To give you a helping hand, here’s our top 5 biggest interview mistakes candidates make.

You dressed inappropriately

Thought you might get away without ironing that shirt? Think again. Dressing down or dressing shabbily is a surefire way to get turned down for a job. The same goes for too much makeup or perfume for women. First impressions last, so always dress smartly and take extra time with your appearance.

Your nerves let you down

Just like looking presentable makes a good first impression, so does confidence. We’re not talking arrogance here, just an inner confidence that inspires others to have confidence in you too. There will inevitably be some nerves, but even if you’re not feeling very confident, act as if you are. The employer needs to know that you’re capable and will be able to handle pressure. Just remember the saying, ‘Fake it ‘til you make it’.

You forgot your manners

An interview is a two-way interaction. Try not to talk over the interviewer, or talk consistently. Remembering that while in a formal setting, this is still a social interaction. It requires that delicate dance of listening and talking like all successful conversations. Non-verbal communication such as nodding, showing understanding and eye contact is also important.
Remember also that your body language speaks volumes, so try to avoid slouching and folding your arms.

You know nothing about the job on offer or the company

Having prepared adequately for the interview is key. There’s possibly nothing worse for an interviewer than discovering the interviewee knows nothing about the company or the position. It shows a lack of initiative, not to mention interest. Finding out as much as possible about the company, the people who are interviewing you and the post on offer will have you feeling more confident. The knowledge you portray will have the interviewer feeling more confident in your abilities and suitability for the post too.

You bad mouthed your previous employer

So your previous employer was a nightmare to work for, but your interviewer doesn’t need to know that. While you feel that they might sympathise with your plight, discussing your previous employer’s downfalls will only make you look bad. Besides, they will immediately see you having the same conversation about them should they hire you. So keep the conversation on a genial level.

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