Are you Making these Interview Mistakes?

I recently read Melissa Kennedy's blog entry on job mistakes you may be making. The list was great and it led me to recall mistakes I know I have made and countless others have most likely made when first getting started in a career. I liked that Melissa said it's a mistake to apply for every job opening; doing so shows no passion on your part. The result will be a generic cover letter and resume that will show the hiring manager you didn't research the company at all - this is the opposite effect of what you are going for.

Melissa's article inspired me to look into mistakes everyone makes while interviewing for a job. Though you may think you are doing a decent job on interviews, odds are you have still committed some blunders without fully realizing it. We have all been there. Sometimes it can be something small that we overlook, but that human resources representatives always remember. This article provides some good insight to anyone looking for a job, but particularly for those of you who have recently graduated college or who are changing careers.

In this article, Alison Doyle explains some common mistakes that can trip up even the best interviewee. The advice that I found particularly poignant is when Doyle suggests one shouldn't talk too much, but also shouldn't remain too quiet. This is a fine line in any conversation, but especially in an interview. We often ask, "how much time should I take to answer each question?" In truth, this answer will vary depending on the complexity of the question. For example, if an interviewer asks you to describe your greatest strengths or your biggest learning experience, I think your answer should go in-depth to an extent. If you are too brief, your answer may appear over-rehearsed (or that you don't have much to show for yourself). Still, it's important to practice before an interview. Whether you meet with a more established person in your field or do a mock interview at college, do something to make yourself feel more comfortable. It will not be a waste of time and it may be the difference between a great interview and a poor one.

Any other interview mistakes you can think of? Please leave a comment.

Amy Muldoon worked in corporate public relations for three years before returning to graduate school to become an English and Social Studies teacher. She is also a freelance writer for CollegeJobBank.Com. Her strengths include: drafting speeches, writing talking points for media interviews, making corporate presentations, and writing for publications. Read more of her blogs at collegejobbankblog.com. Find jobs and other information at Nexxt.

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