So you have finally ended your long and tedious process of surfing employment websites and looking for that perfect job at various Maryland job fairs, and here it is – your long-awaited interview invitation. No matter what it is, a face-to-face conversation with a recruiter or a group stage with five more people competing with you, you will always have higher chances to get an offer if you know how to behave well.
When participating in a personal or group job interview stage, the professional must be aware that recruiters evaluate their personality and behavior much more than their resume or work experience. In these selective processes, attention is paid to each candidate’s posture, behavior, and attitudes.
Especially when there are similarities in skills and professional experiences between candidates, the performance in each of these evaluations can be a decisive factor in the recruiter’s final choice. The other candidate for your desired position might be a great argumentative essay writer and have a more powerful resume, but your professional behavior and willingness to learn and develop yourself can suit the company even more.
Therefore, it is very important that the candidate trains and prepares appropriately for the selection. And yet, mistakes and failures on the part of applicants during interviews or group dynamics are frequent. In some cases, even some of them leave the assessment session without knowing that they made mistakes in the process.
To collaborate with professionals who face this vital process in their lives, this article will show the 10 most widespread mistakes that candidates make and suggest how to avoid them in each situation.
1. Inadequate language
This is a critical point. Speaking and writing correctly, without using jargon, contributes positively to the candidate’s image. Try not to make mistakes, especially if the interview is conducted in a foreign language, and converse calmly so that your pronunciation is as correct as possible. If you notice a mistake in your speech, correct it so that the interviewer appreciates your knowledge.
2. Inappropriate or strange attire
Knowing what to wear is essential. Necklines, short or tight-fitting clothes, or trousers showing underwear in the case of men will be appropriate for other occasions, but not for an interview for your dream job. Avoid dirty and wrinkled clothes and go for neutral colors such as black, brown, beige, and white. When you are told that you are scheduled for an interview, ask what type of clothing is advisable because not all jobs require the use of formal clothes. When in doubt, it is best to arrive well-dressed because it shows your concern for the moment. Shoes should be clean and preferably not old.
3. Unethical behavior
Badmouthing people and companies you have worked for is not good for your image. It is unethical to cite negative examples, especially when the candidate is not directly involved in the episode in question. The story may sound like gossip, which is not desired behavior in a corporate environment.
4. Loose body posture
Sitting with a relaxed posture, arms slumped, feet restlessly tapping the floor, holding your head with your hands can work against you, as it denotes boredom. The body sends many messages, and interviewers are aware of them, so maintain good posture, but don’t force your gestures and facial expressions.
5. Lack of attention
Avoid side conversations when the interviewer or other candidates are talking. It shows a lack of respect for others, and you may be disadvantaged in the selection process. Be careful when answering a question. Be clear and objective. Try to point out what you can contribute if you are selected.
6. Telling lies
Never try to make up courses or experiences on your resume or lie about them in an interview. These facts can easily be double-checked, and if the company has the actual information, it can end up affecting you not only in the selection process but also in the whole hiring process. If you do not have knowledge in the requested areas, show interest in learning instead of telling lies.
7. Lack of research
Learn about the company and the industry you want to work in. Visit their websites and social networks. This way, you can get more ideas about the organization’s position in the market and may arouse more interest in the interviewer. Don’t ask about salaries and benefits at the beginning of the conversation, as this question, if rushed, shows an excessive interest in getting money. However, if in doubt, you can raise this issue before the end of the meeting.
8. Tardiness
Being late is not suitable for your image. Plan how long you need to get to the interview site and even think about what you would do in unexpected situations such as weather changes or traffic jams. The impression left by candidates who arrive late is that there is a lack of commitment. Arriving 15 minutes earlier could allow you to relax and remember everything before the interview.
9. Lack of corporate focus
If you are invited to a group selection process and given a task to deal with, avoid conversations unrelated to your activity. Laughing, criticizing, or joking with the other participants are not expected behavior by the interviewers. Do not impose your ideas either. Show that you can be understanding when necessary.
10. Lack of participation
Are you offered to participate in a group interview to get a job? Then you should do so actively. Just be careful and don’t talk too much. Let the other candidates have their space too. This shows that you know how to work in a team and gives people the opportunity to participate.
Now you know the most common mistakes candidates make at job interviews. By using this knowledge, candidates will undoubtedly increase their chances of success in the selection process and have more opportunities to become successful in their careers. Good luck and get hired!
