Are You Making Any of These Mistakes During Your Interview?

An interview is a crucial step in getting the job of your dreams. Unfortunately, many candidates make big mistakes during their interviews that hiring managers just can't look past. Interview mistakes that could cost you the job include these major faux pas.

Showing Up Too Early

It's an obvious mistake to show up late to the interview, but showing up too early is an equally grievous offense. Arriving at the interview location way ahead of your appointment time places undue pressure on the hiring manager to finish up what she's doing and get to you. If you have to wait in the lobby, it can be awkward and annoying for the receptionist or front office manager to have to babysit you, and it could also make you seem overeager. If you happen to get there more than 15 minutes early, stay in your car or in an outer lobby, and use that extra time to review your resume and cover letter, practice your answers to common questions, and perfect your handshake.

Dressing Inappropriately

You only get one chance for a first impression, so make it a good one by dressing appropriately. No matter how casual or hip your potential employer may seem, it's never a good idea to show up in jeans or casual clothing. A suit is almost always a safe bet, but researching the company's dress code ahead of time is also helpful. Make sure your outfit is clean, well-fitted and pressed, and keep accessories and loud prints or patterns to a minimum. It's best to present a composed appearance with few distractions.

Badmouthing Your Previous Employer

Your interviewer might ask about your reasons for leaving your previous employer, and it may be tempting to discuss how terrible your previous boss's demands were or to talk about the lack of company culture. However, doing so could be detrimental to your image, as badmouthing others makes you seem disgruntled and abrasive. Instead of talking negatively about your former boss or company, try to put a positive spin on your reason for leaving. Maybe the opportunities for advancement didn't align with your future goals, or perhaps you left to seek out greater opportunities for learning and growth. Whatever you say, keep it neutral and professional.

Coming Unprepared

Being unprepared for the interview can mean a variety of things. First, you should always research the company ahead of time and anticipate answering company-specific questions. Secondly, always bring a few backup copies of your resume and cover letter, just in case. It's good to review them right before you walk in, so that your strongest and most relevant attributes are at the top of your mind when the interview begins. Prepare for any interview by practicing answers to common questions to avoid stumbling and rambling, and always come to the interview with a few thoughtful questions of your own to demonstrate your legitimate interest in working there.

These missteps are just a few of the potential mistakes that could ruin your interview. But don't fret; learn from any mistakes you may have made in the past, and remember them for the next time. If you prepare yourself well in advance of the interview, the chances of flubs decrease significantly.

Photo courtesy of Wayne MacPhall at flickr.com