Job Interview Mistakes to Avoid

Getting a job is like going on a first date. Do your work upfront and you'll get in the door. But just as landing a date doesn't guarantee a marriage, getting an interview doesn't automatically secure a job. So press that suit and brush up on the interview mistakes you need to avoid.

Mistake #1: Not learning about the company: You will inevitably hear the question "Why do you want to work here?" If you have not done comprehensive research on the company you will have trouble forming a credible answer. Read the corporate website along with recent industry articles. This will arm you with a few facts to reference and names to know before you make the interview mistake of getting stumped on the simplest question.

Mistake #2: Arriving empty-handed: An obvious interview mistake is forgetting copies of your resume, but what about leaving your work samples at home? From photos to printouts, get creative and think of a way you can show you accomplishments in a portfolio. Reference your work samples to show your achievements.

Mistake #3: Revealing too much: Personality, that is. If a joke, viewpoint or story has you wondering if you will offend someone then an interview is not the time to say it. Use your filter. Also, fun facts about yourself that could be perceived as odd may be best to share after you get the job - then you can tell them about your 15 pet cats.

Mistake #4 Acting apathetic: Just like the first date, if you do not act like you really want the role, there are 50 other people who will.Get psyched up and go in there with innovative ideas, quality questions and an upbeat attitude.

Mistake #5 Coming back: While your potential employer may be interviewing you, you are also interviewing them. If you leave the first interview knowing this job is not for you then do not continue with the interview process. It is an interview mistake and a waste of time. Just send a thank you note and if you are invited to come in again simply explain that the role is not right for you.

Finally, if you are qualified, prepared and dressed appropriately you are one step closer to landing that dream job. Common sense is crucial in an interview because the simplest interview mistake can turn off your potential employer in an instant.