8 Fatal Interview Mistakes
by Chris Fogarty
Getting a job offer takes time, and you’ve got lots of competition. Let’s say (realistically) that an employer starts out with a 1000 resumes for a particular position and screens them down to 20 good possibilities. Those twenty are again screened, often by phone, down to a solid eight that they’ll bring in for a live interview. And only one of these eight will get the job offer. You just might be the *best* person for the job, but if you make one of these fatal interview mistakes you chances of getting that offer are slim.
1. Not realizing that your interview is a (long) process.
Interviewing is a process that begins with the very first contact by the employer and continues until you accept an offer. Don’t assume the first phone call from an employer is simply for scheduling an interview. Rather, it is the start of a relationship and your opportunity to create a great first impression. Likewise, every interaction you have with ANYONE in the company provides them with insight into your work style.
2. No knowledge of the company, its products or its customers.
The number one reason people fail at an interview is lack of preparation. If you know nothing about the company when you arrive at your first interview, they’ll get the impression that you’re not that motivated to work and they’ll get valuable insight into how you approach important situations (poorly).
3. Limited knowledge of what the employer is looking for.
How can you sell your abilities if you don’t know what they want to buy? It would be like selling a car to a 16-year old by telling him it was a great family vehicle. So get really clear on what you have to offer and what the employer needs. Determine where the matches and gaps exist. Prepare stories that describe how you’ve used your abilities in the past. Be prepared to tell the interviewer how you’ll overcome any gaps.
4. Overlooking the importance of your visual image.
What people see is often more important than what you say. Your goal is to have the interviewer see you as a person who will fit into the job and into the organization. So take a good hard look at yourself. Ask your friends and family. What does your look say about you? Does it need a little modification?
5. Floundering on the first question.
“Tell me about yourself”. This is a first question in almost every interview. Don’t undermine your success by thinking you’ll just “wing it”. Start your interview off with confidence, by preparing and practicing what we call your ‘professional pitch’.
6. Expecting someone else to connect the dots.
Too often, we hear “but I’m perfect for the job, can’t they see that?” The answer is no, they can’t. You’ve got to specifically tell them how you will do the job. During the interview your goal is to help the interviewer actually see you in the job. You do this by listening to their questions, answering truthfully, and then telling them a story that paints the picture for them of you doing the job.
7. A weak close to the interview.
“So, do you have any questions for me?” is a typical sign the interview is about to end. “No” is not an acceptable response. Were you listening? Are you interested? A strong close on your part must include good closing questions and summation of what you heard during the interview. And don’t leave the interview without asking about the next steps.
8. No follow-up.
“They didn’t call, so I guess I didn’t get the job” is often countered by the recruiter saying “She never called to check, I guess she wasn’t interested.” People are often so relieved just to get through the interview that they completely neglect the follow up process. Every aspect of your follow-up should communicate enthusiasm and interest in the position – and also reinforce why the employer should hire you. This is your opportunity to reiterate your strengths and interest in the position.
Do you need some help in all of this?
It’s time to change your mind set about interviewing. Think of your interview as a conversation around helping the employer solve business problems. Take the extra steps to help your interviewer make the decision to hire you, and you’re on your way to a great job offer! Help is available, and don’t you think it is just too important to risk coming in second place for the job you really want?
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