It’s safe to say I’ve been on a handful of interviews over the years. I wouldn’t say I’m a master at them, but I know how to conduct myself and how to sell myself as a potential employee. And, as much as I’ve learned on my own by going on interviews, I think I’ve learned even more from interviewing other people. It can be incredibly eye opening and I’m genuinely surprised by some people’s behavior. For every great candidate there’s usually a couple duds. I know sometimes people get nervous, but regardless of nerves I think there’s a handful of things you just shouldn’t do in an interview.
Using your phone
This seems like it should be self-explanatory but apparently, it’s not. There have been candidates finishing up an email or text as they’re shaking my hand. I understand if you need to have you phone out because you’re in the middle of a family emergency and are waiting on a call. But if that’s the case, give a heads up to the interviewer and keep it at arms reach. If you can’t stay off your phone for a 30 minute interview then you’re wasting everyone’s time, including your own.
Lying on your resume
There have been a handful of times when someone is great on paper but horrible in person. I understand nerves can play a role and usually try to give the person the benefit of the doubt. But, if you can’t explain the basics of a skill you have on your resume or give some insight on a project you said you managed, don’t list it on your resume. You will get much farther if you present an authentic version of yourself and your experience than you will if you try to be someone you’re not.
Not asking questions
I don’t even understand this one. There are always questions you can ask. Even if it was an incredibly thorough and informative interview just come up with something. If you feel like this a struggle for you, here are some examples that you can use in the future.
- Why is this position available?
- What’s the culture like in the office?
- What do you enjoy about working here?
- What are the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?
- What are the qualities that are key to being successful in the role?
- What’s the day to day like?
Getting too friendly
I realize this might be a result of the nature of the role company (I work at a pretty laid back ad agency on the influencer marketing team) but I think it can be a problem across the board. It’s good to be personable and charming, but there’s a fine line between that and being too friendly with the interviewer. Maybe it comes from nerves or something, I don’t know, but a handful of people have really opened up about their personal life and shared things you’d share with a girlfriend over drinks.
Not doing research
Be able to answer a question about why you want this role and why this company. If you can’t come up with anything at all, then it’s clear that you just want a job and don’t really care where or what you’re doing.
Bashing a previous/current employer
Not every job is great, I get that. Some employers are the worst and your job becomes your worst enemy. I’ve been there. But, it’s not a good look to tell a potential new employer how much you hate your current company and your boss and how awful it is. If you’re asked why you’re leaving your current role don’t say you hate your current one. Instead, share how you’re hoping to evolve your career and how this particular role is a good fit.