5 Interview Mistakes You Must Avoid

Interviews are the most common method used by employers to find candidates for jobs. Many candidates take the interview process very seriously, while others do not. There are 5 interview mistakes that you must avoid if you are to secure the job that you want.

1. Being late

Apart from a major emergency when everything shuts down, there really is no excuse for being late. Take the time to plan your journey, estimate how long it will take to get to the interview venue and build in time for delays. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your interview time and allow 30 minutes for delays. It is better to arrive 45 minutes early than 15 minutes late.

2. Not knowing about the organisation

A question to find out what you know about the organisation is almost guaranteed. Despite this many candidates are unable to demonstrate that they have even done basic research. With the power of the internet and more general freedom of information there really is no excuse.

3. Not knowing why you want the job

This is another interview favourite. The interviewer knows that you need to earn money so make sure this is not your response. Is it something about the businesses reputation, the challenges it faces, the segment of the market it serves, style of management or progression prospects. Whatever it is be clear on why you want the job.

4. Not knowing yourself

A question about your strengths and weaknesses will come up in some form or other. Clearly you don't want to come up with a weakness that will blow away your chances of getting the job, but at the same time you need to demonstrate self awareness. Think of 3 strengths and 3 development areas that you will talk about in the interview.

5. Asking about salary

Good interviewers will give you the opportunity to ask them questions. Poorly prepared candidates will not make the most of this opportunity. They will ask (before they have been offered the job) about salary, benefits and holidays. The well prepared candidate will focus on questions about promotion prospects, training and development, the future direction of the company and what it is like to work in the organization.

Interviews are challenging for both the interviewer and candidates. By avoiding some of the most common mistakes, you can greatly increase your chances of success.

Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements (G&A) works with professionals and progressive public and private sector organizations who want to develop their management and leadership capability in order to achieve more success. With 25 years business experience in a range of sectors, he understands first hand the real challenges of managing and leading in the demanding business world. You can learn more about Duncan, Goals and Achievements services and products and sign up for his free e-course and monthly newsletter at http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk/