3 common job interview mistakes

The job interview is the last hurdle to securing an internship or job. These are 3 common mistakes that should be avoided!

1.       Not Being Prepared
There is a direct correlation between the amount of preparation and how well a candidate performs during an interview. A list of issues that every candidate should keep in mind is as follows:

·         Information on the company
Go through the company website, paying attention to their mission statement and recent highlights that the company has chosen to spotlight.

·         Information on the interviewers
Read management profiles.

·         Industry knowledge / Current Affairs related to your field
It is expected that you possess the requisite knowledge about your industry and you should also keep abreast of any major news that affects your industry.  

·         The job scope of your role
This is critical and should be the number one thing in the back of your mind as you craft your cover letter, CV and answers during the interview. Everything should point towards the same end result of you being an excellent fit for the role. More tips on how to craft a winning resume and cover letter here.

·         Expected remuneration
Wait for your employer to make the first offer. If asked, you can simply state that you expect a market-competitive rate or if you are applying for a role you really want, you can state that pay is negotiable. 

 2.       Falling into Traps
Whether or not a candidate falters and falls into a “trap” during an interview depends on preparation. If you have considered all the issues in #1 above, you should be able to avoid the biggest pitfalls.

Beyond preparing for common interview questions (click here for a list of commonly asked questions during job interviews), you should anticipate specific questions addressed to you. You should be aware of the gaps or potential red flags that the interviewer may spot based on your CV (a particularly bad grade, a gap in time, a sudden change in major etc.) and prepare answers accordingly.

In many interviewers, it is common to expect a curve-ball question. This is a question that is designed to intentionally catch the candidate off-guard so as to gauge his/her response. The most important thing to remember is that you should stay calm. If you do not know the answer (which is normal), just answer to the best of your abilities based on logic and reasoning.

3.       Not following-up
Remember to close the deal. After the interview, follow-up with a short and polite email thanking your interviewers. Also make sure that HR has everything they need to process your application including your updated contact details and transcripts. 

Check out our lists of commonly asked interview questions here.