5 Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make During an Interview

Congratulations! You've landed an interview for that job that you applied for... but what good is it to get an interview if you're just going to blow it? Listed below are just a couple of common job interview mistakes, blunders, and errors that prospects make.

Talking Too Much

Sure, when you’re in an interview, people want to learn about you, your skills, and your accomplishments. However, that doesn't mean that you should go into a twenty-minute diatribe on your past achievements or drone on about how you solved a simple technical problem. Keep your answers succinct and to the point; if the interviewer wants more, they'll ask. By keeping your answers to the point, your interviewer will be better able to follow your answers, making you appear better prepared.

Dressing Down

First impressions are important, and the first thing your interviewer will notice is how you dress; your physical appearance can speak volumes to someone who is meeting you for the first time. Even if you know that the firm allows employees to dress casually, you should proceed on the conservative side and show up in neat, professional clothing; you won't get penalized for over dressing, but can possibly get dinged by dressing too casually.

Arriving Late

As mentioned above, first impressions count and can have an impact on your job prospects... but did you know it's possible to make a bad first impression before your interviewer even meets with you?

Running late suggests that you don't care about the job that you're interviewing for as well as a lack of respect for your interviewers time. In addition, it shows that you lack basic time management skills, so make sure to take the proper precautions so that you arrive on time, or a few minutes (5 - 10) early (arriving too early also suggestions poor time management skills). By going the extra step to try and get to your interview on time, you'll be able to give yourself a cushion in case something unforeseen comes up.

Not Having Any Questions Prepared 

As well as being prepared for questions you may be asked, also be ready to ask your own questions. Do not be caught off guard when the interviewer inevitably asks, "Do you have any questions for me?" Be prepared with several questions, about the company, the position, or the corporate culture. At an initial interview, do not ask about salary, benefits, or workload. You do not want to appear only interested in money, perks, or having an easy job. You want to show your willingness and ability to do the best job possible, and portray enthusiasm for the position. Not having any questions prepared makes a job candidate seem uninterested, unmotivated, and unprepared.

Asking About Your Salary Too Soon

While it may be one of the determining factors in your decision to work at a company, don't talk money too soon while in the interview. Many interviewers will tell you the salary and benefits that come with the job, though some will ask you what your salary expectations are. Either way, follow the interviewers lead when it comes to discussing salary. You don't want to look like someone who is just in it for the money and doesn't care about the job as it may work against you when compared to other suitable applicants.

Take the time to prepare before your interview, so you don't have to stress out about blunders after it.