Common Interview Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

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No interview is perfect because there will always be areas for improvement. Even so, our FastForward Career Coaches say they’ve spotted a number of common interview mistakes on a regular basis that are easily fixed. Here are the three interview slip-ups we see most often, along with our take on how to avoid them in job interviews. 

Not showing your interest in the employer.

Interviewers often ask job applicants if they have any questions, and your answer should always be YES. As a potential employee, you should show some interest in the employer. Prepare a handful of questions in advance of your interview. Questions like, “What are some current projects the company is working on?” or “What is your favorite part about working here?” are great conversation starters. 

Not relating your skills and strengths to the requirements of the job.

“One common mistake is overlooking how important it is to tie skills and strengths to the requirements the company is looking for,” said Barbara Rang, a FastForward Career Coach at Eastern Shore Community College. “Students need to not only answer the interview questions but to find ways they can use their own experiences and values to show the employer why they make a good fit.”  

For example, don’t just say you’re a certified welder. You should talk about how your training in shielded metal arc welding works well with the type of work you would be required to do on the job. 

Lacking confidence and being self-defeating.

Demonstrate confidence in your skills, along with your willingness to learn. Do your best to avoid language fillers like “ums,” “uhh” and “you know.” Show you’ve done a little homework by communicating your knowledge about the company and its work. Focus on the positive. Don’t say negative things about yourself and never speak poorly about others. 

Are you looking to change your career? FastForward Career Coaches are trained to help you find the right career path for you (and can help you navigate the interview and job application process).  

Reach out using our contact form to start a conversation.