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I'm sure
you've sat through movie or TV "bloopers" at the end
of shows and laughed at the mistakes the actors made
during the filming of the show. If I could put
together a film with bloopers that people make in
interviews it might seem funny as well - but not
when it happens in real life - to you!
How do
you avoid bloopers? First you become aware of what
some of the pitfalls of interviewing are and then
you prepare and practice so that it won't happen to
you. Here are 10 of those very pitfalls to watch
for.
1. Poor Non-Verbal Communication - Slouching -
Fidgeting - Lack of Eye Contact
It's
about demonstrating confidence - standing straight,
making eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm
handshake. That first impression can be a great
beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.
2. Not Dressing for the Job or Company - "Over
Casual"
Today's
casual dress codes in the office do not give you
permission to dress as "they" do when you interview.
It is important to look professional and well
groomed, above all. Whether you wear a suit or
something less formal depends on the company culture
and the position you are seeking. If possible, call
and find out what the company dress code is before
the interview.
3. Not Listening - Only Worrying about What You Are
Going to Say
From the
very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is
giving you information, either directly or
indirectly. If you are not listening - turning up
your intuitive - you are missing a major
opportunity. Good communication skills include
listening and letting the person know you heard what
they said. Observe your interviewer and match that
style and pace.
4. Talking Too Much - Telling It All - Even if It's
Not Relevant
Telling
the interviewer more than they need to know could be
a fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of
time you may tend to ramble, sometimes talking
yourself right out of the job. Prepare for the
interview by reading through the job posting;
matching your skills with the requirements of the
position, and relating only that information.
5. Being Over-Familiar - Your New Best Friend Is NOT
the Interviewer
The
interview is a professional meeting to talk
business. This is not about making a new friend. The
level of familiarity should mimic the demeanor of
the interviewer. It is important to bring energy and
enthusiasm to the interview, and to ask questions,
but not to over-step your place as a candidate
looking for a job.
6. Using Inappropriate Language - You "Guys" Know
What I Mean
It's a
given that you should use professional language
during the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate
slang words or references to age, race, religion,
politics, or sexual preferences - these topics could
get the door slammed very quickly.
7. Acting Cocky - Being Overconfident - "King of the
Hill"
Attitude
plays a key role in your interview success. There is
a fine balance between confidence, professionalism,
and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance
to demonstrate your ability, over-doing is as bad,
if not worse, as being too reserved.
8. Not Answering the Question Asked - "Jumping in
Without Thinking"
When an
interviewer asks for an "example of a time" you did
something, he is seeking a sample of your past
behavior. If you fail to relate a "specific"
example, you not only don't answer the question, but
you miss an opportunity to prove your ability and
tell about your skills.
9. Not Asking Questions - a Missed Opportunity You
Will Live to Regret
When
asked if they have any questions, the majority of
candidates answer, "No." Wrong answer! It is
extremely important to ask questions. It
demonstrates an interest in what goes on in the
company. It also gives you the opportunity to find
out if this is the right place for you. The best
questions come from listening to what is asked
during the interview, and asking for additional
information.
10. Appearing Desperate - "Please, Please Hire Me!"
It's a
tough job market, and you need a job! But, when you
interview with the "Please, please, hire me"
approach, you appear desperate and less confident.
Maintain the three "C's" during the interview: Cool,
Calm, and Confident! You know you can do the job.
Now, make sure the interviewer believes you can too.
Everybody
makes mistakes - that's what makes us human. We can
laugh at ourselves a great deal of the time when we
get tongue-tied or forget someone's name - even our
spouse's. But in the interview you want to be as
prepared and polished as possible. If you do make a
mistake, consider it a human error and learn from
the experience. In the meantime, do your homework
and get prepared.
Carole
Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor.
Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one
else can. Get a copy of her FREE 9-part "Interview
Success Tips" report by visiting Carole on the Web
at
http://www.interviewcoach.com.
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