Interview Mistakes to Avoid

On paper, these mistakes seem obvious and like plain old common sense. For whatever reason, during job interviews, sometimes we lose that common sense. This in turn could change how you appear and even the hiring, or not hiring decision. These mistakes are more common these days. I truly believe this is because we live in a far more "casual" world than it used to be. Unfortunately many aren't taught the difference between casual and just missing respect and manners. No matter what the job, no matter how casual the workplace appears to be, always follow these simple hints below.

Outward Appearance

The very first impression of someone is when the interviewer sets eyes on them. Before any words are even exchanged, there is already somewhat of an opinion formed. After all, everyone is always on their best behavior in the beginning of anything. If someone shows up to an interview under dressed, or even worse, unkempt, what does that say about them? It says, "I really don't care what you think about how I look and I don't want to take the extra effort of a couple minutes to appear professional."Our society in general is far more casual than in past decades. Unfortunately, people take this a step too far. and don't even think twice about showing up to an interview looking unprofessional. This seems obvious, but believe it or not, the most common mistake made is ones appearance. Even if the job is in a casual atmosphere, it is important to show up dressed properly and neatly and be freshly groomed. Yes, that actually needs to be said these days believe it or not. Proper hygiene is needed when going on a job interview.

Manners

Often, because of previous exchanges, or perhaps it is a friend's friend or family friend, whatever the case, people often feel comfortable with the interviewer before walking in the door. A huge problem with this is people mistake familiarity with the unfortunate feeling they need not mind their manners. Unfortunately as a whole, manners has largely gone by the wayside. Because of this, people regard manners as unnecessary and outdated. This is bad at any time, but during an interview, manners are very important. Some examples would be:

Always address the person as Ms. SoandSo, Mr. SoandSo.
Always give a firm handshake while thanking them for taking the time to see you.
Never, ever interrupt for any reason.
Never, ever leave on your cell phone, no, not even on vibrate.

Mannerisms

In almost every job, whether it is in an office, as a cashier, or even cleaning, how you carry yourself will effect how the interviewer sees you. It is important to have confidence in yourself, but not be egotistical. It is important to Appear you really want to be there, even if you don't. It is important to be open and truthful, but keep it confined to work. Fidgeting in your seat, wringing your hands, lack of eye contact are all mannerisms that should never happen during an interview.

Before and After Interview Communications

Once you have filled out an application somewhere, or submitted your resume somewhere, if they are interested in you you will receive communication in one form or another that you have been accepted for an interview. It is important that that communication be polite, and again, work related only, and polite. Follow through with an email a couple days prior to confirm your interview time and day and again, thank them for their time. After the interview, a couple days later, a follow-up email with a nice thank you and your hope to be working there is a good way to stand out and it shows you are very interested, but not pesky.

Professionalism

It is so important to keep all questions and answers during the interview work related. If the interviewer asks you something about your personal life, unless it is something to do with work (IE. criminal history,etc), they are just being polite. A short sweet answer is all that's needed here. They really don't want or need to hear your dog had diarrhea last night. Besides keeping everything work related, all four above important things together also all roll into being professional.

These days it is very hard to get a job. There are plenty of people out there to interview for the very same job you are. Even if this weren't so, all of the above is important to maintain, but it is even more important now. If you want to stand out, if you want to be hired, keep these things in mind before, during and after your job interview.