Avoid This One Mistake Made During Interviews

The key purpose of a job interview is for the hiring manager to assess your professionalism, your skills and your ability to discuss how your experience qualifies you for the open position. Candidates often answer interview questions with long explanations that go on for too long and make them appear too eager or desperate. This one mistake can cost you the job if you're not careful.

It is natural to want to convince a potential employer that you are qualified for an open position during the job interview by talking up your skills and experience, but overzealous actions and responses to interview questions can cost you the job, explains Richard Moy with Business Insider. Interviewers are prepared with a list of questions they want to ask, and when a candidate takes over and dominates the conversation, the shift in power can be uncomfortable and unsettling. Provide brief and concise answers that directly answer the question and allow the interviewer to continue with questions and maintain control over the interview.

The best way to ensure you do not drone on too long during a job interview is to practice your responses ahead of time. Compile a list of common questions, and prepare responses that are direct and concise. Try to keep your responses to 30 seconds or a minute max when rehearsing. It is also important to analyze the job description to ensure that you highlight your qualifications that match what the employer is seeking. Briefly note accomplishments that are relevant to the industry and highlight your proficiency with the software, hardware and equipment utilized in the position to show that you are a perfect match for the position.

The job interview also requires you to show that you have a personality and team-centered approach that is in line with the company culture. Interviewers want to see that you not only have the skills and experience to perform the job duties, but also a personality and work ethic that meshes well with the company's goals and mission. You are being assessed on your ability to perform the job as well as your ability to fit in with the culture and work well with existing employees.

It's also important to tap into your professional network when answering questions during the job interview. Briefly describe what you know about the company's operations, accomplishments and productivity based on your research of the company. Discuss professional relationships you have with current or former employees to show that you have taken the time to investigate whether or not the company is a good fit for you.

Interviewers seek out candidates with confidence, as well as those who are thorough in preparing for the job interview and a potential career with the business. Keep your answers brief, and show that you can explore your skills and experience in a direct and concise manner to impress the potential employer.

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