When it comes to your job interview,
you want to leave it with nothing but positive energy. You want to
leave the interviewer thinking that you will most certainly be a positive
addition to his or her company. The last thing you want to do is to
kill your chances with a simple mistake or two. While there are a
number of ways to prepare for a successful interview, there are also
a number of ways to quickly end your chances of getting hired. Below
are some simple things to avoid during an interview:
Showing up late: This is not only rude, but it also reflects poorly
on your work ethic. Do you routinely show up late? Are you someone
who can't be counted on? Don't disqualify yourself before even meeting
the interviewer.
Forgetting to turn your cell phone off (or keeping it on silent):
Having a cell phone ring during an interview is not only disruptive
- it's also disrespectful. While it may not be an automatic interview-killer,
it certainly won't improve your chances.
Chewing gum: This looks/sounds unprofessional and tacky. No employer
appreciates someone talking to them with a mouthful of gum. It's even
worse if you're someone who chews loudly without even realizing.
Using "I don't know" as a response to questions: The purpose
of an interview is to provide the interviewer with more information
about you. The more you give them, the better.
Using slang or profanity: This is never a positive in the workplace.
Speak professionally.
Bringing up personal problems: An interview is about the job in question
and about your specific qualifications, not about your personal life.
While you will almost always be asked to talk a little bit about yourself,
try to keep the personal talk to a minimum. Certainly don't bring
up any "issues" that will raise red flags.
These "killers" may seem a little obvious, but they happen
all the time. Avoid these mistakes and you're already ahead of a large
part of the competition.
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