Top 10 mistakes to avoid in an interview

An interview in an opportunity for a potential employer to decide whether the interviewee is the right fit for the role and organization, as much as it is for the interviewee to decide whether he or she wants the job.

Therefore, getting your hiring decisions right is crucial for the success of the organization.

Here are 10 interview mistakes to avoid:

1. Going for an interview unprepared - (Research) get to know the company you are interviewing at, their business, revenue, culture and work ethos.

2. Going dressed inappropriately for the interview - don't hesitate to ask what the dress code is. There's nothing worse than turning up over-dressed or under-dressed for the occasion.

3. Arriving late or too early for an interview - this can indicate how anxious or unorganized you are. People form perceptions from the first time they set eyes on you.

4. A loose handshake could dilute any chance of landing the job - it is an indication of your personality. Go in for a firm handshake and emanate confidence.

5. Pretending to know the answer to a question when you don't - it can make you feel embarrassed, especially if the interviewer lets you go on and on just to see what a mess you make of it.

6. Getting into an ego fight with the interviewer - no matter how opinionated or obnoxious he is, just let it go.

7. Bad mouthing previous employers - it is in bad taste and does not go down well with a prospective employer.

8. Talking too much or too little - this is ineffective in showcasing your knowledge and skills. Stick to the point and provide relevant information in a succinct manner to help the interviewer decide you are the right person for the job.

9. Taking the risk of cracking a joke - avoid this lest it falls flat or sounds distasteful, especially when you don't know what kind of sense of humor your interviewer has. Remember, many an interview can be blown if the joke does not go down well, even if you have made a terrific impression otherwise.

10. Forgetting to send a note of thanks after the interview - it is the polite thing to do. Remember, it is also an opportunity to remind the interviewer about you and let them know you are still interested in the job and look forward to hearing from them, whatever the decision.

Putting your best foot forward in an interview means not only going prepared, but also giving your full attention to what the interviewer is asking you.

Take a moment to digest the question, or request them to repeat it - even better, tell them you don't quite understand the question if that is the case. Remember, there are different kinds of people.

The best bet is to stay objective, focused and totally professional in your conduct to make a strong impression.



Hope the readers dont make these mistakes in any Interview.