Job Interviews are a vital part of the recruitment process, it allows the recruiter to not just follow up on your qualifications and skills but to let them see your interpersonal skill, confidence levels, manners and behaviourism that set you apart from another candidate. 

What mistakes do you need to avoid at an interview to give you the best chance to be called in for a second interview or better yet get the job?

1. Time Management.

There is nothing that speaks more to your character than punctuality. Being punctual reflects your conduct even after they decide to hire you. Before going to an interview make sure to measure the exact amount of time it will take you to arrive at the destination. 

The standard amount of time to arrive at an interview is 10 minutes before the interview is due to begin. Arriving half an hour before the job interview begins is also not advised as the interviewer put you in that time slot for a reason. Now everyone needs to move things around to accommodate the fact that you arrived 30 minutes early. Manage your time wisely.

2. Are you prepared?

Preparation is everything when it comes to taking job interviews. What do you know about the company? If you are asked to provide examples what are your go-to examples? There is no time to brainstorm what to answer during the interview, it leads to nervousness and you end up handling the situation poorly.

You know you are on the job hunt so start preparing. The moment you receive the call for an interview do some research on the company, do some research on the role you have been called in to interview for, make copies of your CV and practice practice practice.

3. Proper attire.

The first impression is everything! Make sure you are dressed appropriately and professionally. A lot of the organizations now are not so strict when it comes to dressing codes but some industries still take dress codes very seriously. For example, you can't show up to an interview with a bank dressed in jeans and a nice shirt. 

Also, depending on the job position you are interviewing for, you must consider your dress code. If you are going into an interview for a managerial role then consider dressing more smartly. Throw on a suit! It will boost your chances more than hurt them.

4. Watch what you say.

Keep it brief and professional. Remember that this is a professional setting and try to keep it as professional as possible. Refrain from mentioning anything about your personal life unless asked. I know it's hard to not use expressions such as 'uhm’ or 'ah' while trying to form sentences but try to minimize that as much as possible.

Lastly, watch what you say regarding your former employers. Bad mouthing your former employers or co-workers is not the best idea, it reflects negatively on your behaviour and you never know why they are asking you about your former employment. Keep it as neutral and clean as you can.

Make your job hunting journey easier by creating an account with us (click here to register as a Jobseeker) and keep working on your interview skills.