Quick Tips to Turn a Bad Interview Around

Chances are you've had at least one bad interview in your professional life. Did you ever wish you could go back and get a do-over in the middle of that interview? Rather than think hindsight is 20/20, it's better to prepare ahead of time for any interview snafus that may ruin your chances of landing your dream job. Consider these quick tips for dealing with this scenario.

A bad interview doesn't have to ruin your chances of making a good impression. In fact, the interviewers may simply feel you're not the right fit for the company. You might feel that once you get to know the company better during your interview that you don't like it as much as you once thought. That doesn't mean your qualifications and skills aren't top notch. Instead, realize three important things you can do to turn around a bad interview.

1. Ask Questions

Ask your interviewers a relevant question, especially if they seem disengaged from the conversation. Questions may disrupt their line of thinking and bring their attention back to you rather than their smartphones. If you see your interviewers start to lose eye contact, or if they become distracted by checking emails on their phones, jump in with a question.

Throw your interviewers for a loop by asking, "What happened to my predecessor?" or "Is this a new position or am I replacing someone?" You could also ask, "What do you like least about working here?" Any of these questions should make the other side focus back on you.

2. Ask to Start Over

Everyone should get a do-over. If you start out horribly during a bad interview, such as flubbing the first couple of questions, ask your interviewers if you could start over. Take a deep breath, pause for just a moment, and then admit that nerves got the better of you.

This does three things. First, it alleviates any suspicions that you were too prepared for the interview. Second, it reveals that you're just as human as everyone else in the room. Third, it shows your honesty and willingness to take responsibility for your mistakes and then make up for them. All three of these things may actually impress your interviewers.

3. Write a Thank You Note

Thank you notes can leave a lasting impression on your interviewers, even after a bad interview. Don't dwell on the negatives of the interview in your note. However, you might say "I failed to mention..." or "I wish I had said..." and then continue from there. The note should be brief, relevant to a conversation and honest. Send the note via email shortly after the interview, and then consider following up with a handwritten thank you note that you mail later that day.

These quick tips for a bad interview may not win you the job, but they could make a lasting impression if the company has another opening later. Plus, it helps you to practice and learn for the next interview. Either way, you still win even if you have to move on to the next opportunity.

Photo courtesy of kizzzbeth at Flickr.com