Have you ever left an interview thinking “I totally aced that!” only to find out you will not be moving forward in the process? Let’s take a look at some reasons why they didn’t choose to move forward with you after your interview:
Arrived late – Really?! Someone has set aside time in their busy day to interview you, and may have back-to-back interviews to complete in any given day. You have just disrupted their schedule and are showing a lack of respect for that person’s time. Know where you’re going, and how long it will take you to get there – drive the route beforehand if need be.
Trashed your former employer/boss – Who will want to hire you if they conclude that you may turn around and trash them in the future?
Talked poorly about the company you are interviewing with – Don’t ever act like you’re above working at the company you’re interviewing with and have them believing how foolish they would be to not bring you on board to “save” them. Instead, let them know why you’re the best person for the position, and what you bring to the table.
Didn’t do your homework on the company or position – Please tell me you’ve done your research on the company, their values, their culture, the position, and the people you’re interviewing with! You don’t want to get hung up and not be able to answer a simple question regarding “What do you know about our company, or the position?”
Didn’t practice your responses – Research tough interview questions and review your answers; practice answering questions about gaps in your work history, short tenure at previous positions, and potential gaps in your skills. Here’s a link to get you started: 50 Most Common Interview Questions.
Didn’t listen – Interviews should be 50% talking/answering questions and 50% listening. Don’t be overzealous and think you need to share every single thing about yourself.
Didn’t ask questions – Don’t forget that an interview goes both ways! Ask relevant questions pertaining to the company, the position, and their culture. Also keep in mind the personality and management style of the hiring manager – is this someone that you can work for?
You’re a nag – Ask what the next steps are and when you can expect to hear back from them. Send a thank you note or email. Place a follow-up call if you haven’t heard back in the timeline they gave you. Do not call or email several times a week as you have now become a nag.
Lack basic interview skills – You bring in your cell phone; you’re not dressed correctly for the business environment; you aren’t prepared to answer questions and give relevant examples of prior experience and your hand shake feels like a limp fish.
Not organized – Come prepared and have a portfolio with a pad of paper and pen or an electronic tablet so you can take notes; have your questions written down ahead of time; bring extra resumes; and bring your list of references.
Resources:
“5 Things That Will Make Your Interviewer Hate You” – Catherine Conlan
“Interview Effectively”, WorkSource – Job Search Strategy
It’s Not You, It’s Me – Interview Failure