Job Candidates Frequently Commit This Error During Interviews: A Shared Observation From Over a Thousand Interviews.
Landing a job interview is a significant milestone, but it's just the beginning of the race. Are you prepared to make a mark that sets you apart from the competition? We've compiled essential insights from HR guru Lisa Hinterecker, who has thousands of interviews under her belt, to help you navigate the job interview minefield and secure your dream role.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
In any job interview, there are certain mistakes that can quickly derail your chances of success. Avoid falling into these traps, and you're off to a great start:
- Sloppy Prep: Don't neglect researching the company, role, or interviewer. Customize your responses to each role and organization to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
- Timing: Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews, and test technology for virtual interviews to ensure a seamless connection.
- Dress Code Faux Pas: Tailor your wardrobe to suit the company culture. For a heightened sense of formality, lean towards a slightly more professional outfit if uncertain.
- Poor Body Language: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake (but not too firm!) to convey confidence.
- Tuning Out the Interviewer: Pay attention and answer questions as asked; if something isn't clear, ask for clarification.
- Bashing Previous Employers: Keep your comments focused on what you've learned from past experiences rather than dwelling on negatives.
- No Questions Asked: Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, company culture, or future projects to show your genuine interest in the role.
- Vaguery: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and provide clear, concise answers.
- Lack of Passion: Display enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the company.
- Snubbing the Follow-Up: Send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours to express your gratitude.
Dig Deeper with these Insights from Lisa Hinterecker
While these pitfalls are widely recognized, Lisa Hinterecker, an HR professional with extensive interviewing experience, emphasizes the importance of honesty, curiosity, and critical thinking. Prepare and practice being yourself during the interview process to create a lasting impression.
The STAR method is a valuable technique Lisa uses when conversing with candidates: "I don't ask, 'How would you handle a situation?' but rather, 'What was a specific situation in the past?' That provides much more insight." If someone claims to be particularly skilled, she challenges them with specific examples before delving deeper.
Lastly, don't forget to show your mettle by asking insightful, thought-provoking questions. For example, "What was the last difficult feedback you had to deal with?" or "What's currently challenging your organization? What's a current issue?" These questions demonstrate courage, curiosity, and the potential to be an asset to any company.
Good luck on your job hunt, and remember to be yourself—the right opportunity is out there waiting for you!
- To make a lasting impression in a job interview and stand out from the competition, focus on being honest, curious, and demonstrating critical thinking during the interview process.
- In addition to avoiding common pitfalls, preparation and practice in using the STAR method for structuring responses and asking insightful questions can help you create a strong impression as a self-developed individual with valuable skills for career development and job-search success.
