Job Interview Bloopers And How To Correct Them
at through movie or TV “bloopers” at the end
of shows and laughed at the mistakes the actors make during the
filming of the show. If I could put together a film with
bloopers that people make in interviews it might seem funny as
well – but not when it happens in real life – to you!
How do you avoid bloopers? First you become aware of what some
of the pitfalls of interviewing are and then you prepare and
practice so that it won’t happen to you. Here are 10 of those
very pitfalls to watch for.
1.Poor non-verbal communication – slouching – fidgeting – lack
of eye contact
It’s about demonstrating confidence – standing straight, making
eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That
first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to
your interview.
2. Not dressing for the job or company – “over casual”
Today’s casual dress codes in the office, do not give you
permission to dress as “they” do when you interview. It is
important to look professional and well groomed, above all.
Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the
company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible,
call and find out what the company dress code is before the
interview.
3. Not listening – only worrying about what you are going to
say
From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is
giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you
are not listening – turning up your intuitive – you are missing
a major opportunity. Good communication skills include listening
and letting the person know you heard what they said. Observe
your interviewer and match that style and pace.
4. Talking too much – telling it all – even if it’s not
relevant
Telling the interviewer more than they need to know could be a
fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of time you may
tend to ramble, sometimes talking yourself right out of the job.
Prepare for the interview by reading through the job posting;
matching your skills with the requirements of the position, and
relating only that information.
5. Being over-familiar – your new best friend is NOT the
interviewer
The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This
is not about making a new friend. The level of familiarity
should mimic the demeanor of the interviewer. It is important
to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview, and to ask
questions, but not to over-step your place as a candidate
looking for a job.
6. Using inappropriate language – you “guys” know what I mean
It’s a given that you should use professional language during
the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or
references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual
preferences – these topics could get the door slammed very
quickly.
7. Acting cocky – being overconfident – “king of the hill”
Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a
fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty.
Even if you’re putting on a performance to demonstrate your
ability, over-doing is as bad, if not worse, as being too
reserved.
8. Not answering the question asked – “jumping in without
thinking”
When an interviewer asks for an “example of a time,” you did
something, he is seeking a sample of your past behavior. If you
fail to relate a “specific” example, you not only don’t answer
the question, but you miss an opportunity to prove your ability
and tell about your skills.
9. Not asking questions – a missed opportunity you will live to
regret
When asked if they have any questions, the majority of
candidates answer, “No.” Wrong answer! It is extremely
important to ask questions. It demonstrates an interest in what
goes on in the company. It also gives you the opportunity to
find out if this is the right place for you. The best questions
come from listening to what is asked during the interview, and
asking for additional information.
10. Appearing desperate – “Please, please hire me!”
It’s a tough job market, and you need a job! But, when you
interview with the “Please, please, hire me,” approach you
appear desperate and less confident. Maintain the three “C’s”
during the interview: Cool, Calm, and Confident! You know you
can do the job, – now, make sure the interviewer believes you
can, too.
Everybody makes mistakes – that’s what makes us human. We can
laugh at ourselves a great deal of the time when we get
tongue-tied or forget someone’s name – even our spouse’s. But
in the interview you want to be as prepared and polished as
possible. If you do make a mistake, consider it a human error
and learn from the experience. In the meantime do your homework
and get prepared.
About The Author: Carole Martin is a celebrated author,
trainer, and mentor. Carole can give you interviewing tips like
no one else can. Get a copy of her FREE 9-part “Interview
Success Tips” report by visiting Carole on the web at
http://www.interviewcoach.com
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