We get requested a lot to help with interview technique: The things you should do and shouldn't do when preparing for an interview. Here are a few ideas and tricks describing what not to do for your interview:
Turn up late
Never turn up to an interview late. Imagine you are the interviewer for a second. If you were kept waiting by someone you have never met before and by someone who is claimed to be trying to 'get' the job - would you be impressed by their lateness? Turning up late will reflect adversely on you as it shows that you are disorganized and bad at time keeping - which might be key characteristics for certain roles.
Waffle or talk too much
Talking non stop in an interview is a terrible strategy. This is horrible interview technique. No-one wants to be talked at! An interview is a two-way dialogue and thus make sure that it stays that way. Make sure that what you have to say is relevant and has a point to it otherwise it's just waffle i.e. a lot of noise but without much in it.
Criticise your existing employer or supervisor
Criticising who you now work for is not a smart idea. Even if you do not like someone, do not talk negatively of them or put them down. Describing them in a negative way would only look terrible on you. Your interviewer doesn't want to know that if things don't work out with them you are going to bad mouth them to everyone you encounter! Your interviewer will know that you desire to leave your current work because you're in an interview. Whether it's because you detest your prior employer or company or not - is irrelevant and isn't something you should focus on.
Answer your phone
Turn your phone off when going for an interview. Having it ringing in the middle of an interview is not only distracting but is merely nasty. What is even worse is answering a call in an interview. It is insulting to the interviewer and shows that you are not serious about getting that job nor do you respect the person who has taken the time to interview you.
Express nasty humour
Humour is a funny thing! Some people will find things hilarious when others will not so tread carefully here. Anything that could be interpreted as cruel, racist, sexist or discriminating is a big no. Having someone try to be hilarious when they're not, is not a nice sight or feeling.
Sit in silence
Being excessively silent is not a good choice in an interview. Again - terrible interview approach. Responding with basic yes and no replies isn't what the interviewer is looking for. They want to show energy, enthusiasm and passion for the role. They want to get to know you and see that you are interested in it. Short comments or just sitting in quiet won't get anything through or offer the interviewer something to work with.
Nisa Chitakasem and Simon North are the founders of Position Ignition, a very customized careers advisory service for professionals. Position Ignition helps with individuals through their careers transitions supporting them through to attaining their goals. Nisa is interested in taking careers guidance to the next level!
Reviewed by Linfinity
on
October 10, 2021
Rating:
