The Edge

It should come as no surprise that the interview is a make or break opportunity in your job search. In an effort to prepare you as best as possible, here’s a list of complaints we hear from employers about interviewees. All of the items below, done individually or in combination with one another, will have a negative impact on your chances of landing the job. Don’t make these mistakes!

1. Arriving Late
(There’s no excuse for arriving late to an interview. If you do, you may as well not show up at all. Remember the rule of thumb: Ten minutes early is five minutes late.)

2. Vague or General Answers to Questions
(Respond directly and cite specific examples or experiences whenever possible.)

3. Avoids the Question
(Answer each question to the best of your ability. If the question relates to an experience or issue you’ve never dealt with, or you don’t understand the question, say so.)

4. Talks Too Much or Too Little
(Relax, be yourself and answer questions as intelligently and concisely as possible.)

5. Poor Body Language
(Sit up straight, make eye contact, smile and relax.)

6. Inappropriate Dress or Appearance
(If you want the job, you better look the job. Over-dress rather than under-dress, remove piercings and cover tattoos whenever possible.)

7. Complaining About Previous Jobs or Managers
(No employer likes a complainer. Never criticize anyone or any company at any point in time during the interview.)

8. No Evidence of Learning From Past Errors
(Everyone makes mistakes. If asked, identify one and explain what you learned from the experience.)

9. Doesn’t Ask Questions After the Interview
(Prepare a list and bring it along. This will make it crystal clear to the interviewer that you are serious about the position.)

10. Interviewee Misrepresents Themselves
(Don’t lie on your resume or during the interview. As you answer questions, try to position yourself in the best light possible, but never be untruthful.)