Interviews are generally nervous, awkward events which can leave the candidate feeling regretful and often embarrassed. Almost everyone can relate to that feeling of dismay when running through the interview over and over again, after it’s all over, and coming up with what he/she should have said and done. It often seems like the nerves take over and it’s all downhill from there. However, one great way to improve your interview skills and minimize the risk of any embarrassing moments is to identify the most common interview mistakes and ways to avoid them. If you feel like you are well-prepared and have a good understanding of interview etiquette, you are less likely to get nervous and slip up. Avoid the awkwardness of interview by going in with a clear understanding of some of the basic rules to get you off on the right foot. You’d be surprised at how straight forward it actually is.
The following is a list of some of the most common interview etiquette and best practice.
Arrive on time
Arrive at your interview with plenty of time to spare. It is much better to be waiting for your interviewer than the other way around. Being late for an interview shows a lack of respect and makes it look as if you don’t care. Punctuality is valued by all employers.
Furthermore, if you give yourself enough time, you won’t be flustered and rushed when arriving and you should get off to a better interview, right from the get-go. Entering an interview with a calm and steady demeanor will reflect well.
Do not complain
It is not a good idea to arrive at an interview and offload your worldly frustrations with the world/ weather/ traffic. Remain friendly and upbeat and try not to be negative. Employers do not want miserable employees and they definitely won’t hire someone who looks like they enjoy complaining.
First and foremost, do not spend the interview complaining about former positions or your old boss, this shows signs of disrespect and who is to say that your attitude towards a new role might not be equally as negative? Keep it light, and at the very least, neutral.
Do not offend
This simply means remaining as neutral as possible when covering an area that potentially could be offensive. Behave professionally and think things through as far as possible before opening your mouth. Avoid heated topics such as politics and religion if they do not form a part of the job description.
Do not smoke or eat garlic before your interview, and definitely avoid chewing on gum whilst the interview is taking place- all of these three things can be viewed as offensive.
Come prepared
This is vital to a successful interview. There is nothing worse and more off-putting than being caught completely off guard by an interviewer. So, pre-empt some difficult questions that may come up, know your CV and cover letter backwards and ensure you have researched the company thoroughly before you arrive.
Being prepared also gives you the opportunity to showcase your strong points and achievements- key in establishing you as a unique and skilled candidate. Think about what you need the interviewer to know about you and use your interview as a chance to communicate these things.
Dress to impress (but don’t overdo it)
When attending an interview, dress for what is considered appropriate given the role you are applying for. If it is a sales job you are probably better off in a suit, whilst jeans and a neat shirt may suffice in a more casual or creative field.
Make sure you get to know the company culture beforehand and dress accordingly. When in doubt, lean towards the more formal option, it is worse to risk looking too casual than to be slightly over dressed.
No matter what the company norm is, make sure you are neat and tidy. Avoid faded suits or over-washed shirts, and ensure your clothes are ironed properly. Hair, nails and make up should all be conservative and neat. Piercings and tattoos should be covered as far as possible, you never know what the company does and does not find acceptable.
So, the next time you have an interview, just remember to dress neatly, remain neutral, avoid any offensive topics, remain upbeat and above all, arrive on time and prepared.
By Julie Samuel
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