8 Not doing your homework, not being real, or leaving without . . .

 

Preparation can make the difference between an okay interview and an excellent one. You need to spend the time preparing and practicing so that the best answers come quickly and clearly. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can wing it. Part of that preparation is getting ready to show up as you, not someone who has memorized answers to questions. Another benefit of being prepared is that you may feel more relaxed and ready to respond to unexpected questions.

Interviewers also expect candidates to follow some simple etiquette rules, which include arriving early and dressing appropriately for the role. They believe candidates display their best at interviews and will judge people negatively if they don’t meet basic expectations.

At the end of the interview, you can take actions to reinforce the message that you are a good match for this role.

Not doing your homework

Interviewers expect you to be prepared to answer questions (unless the question they ask is a very unusual one that is designed to surprise you). If it appears you are not fully prepared or can’t answer basic questions, that will be a red flag for interviewers. Your lack of preparation could give them the impression you’re not very interested in this job or, if you’re hired, you won’t do the necessary work to perform well. Another way to show your interest is to prepare good questions about the job and company.

Assuming being an interviewer will make you a good interviewee

Not investing time in preparation or thinking that you can wing it

Not practicing your answers to difficult or delicate questions

Not planning good questions (or enough questions) to ask the interviewer

Not testing out your tech in advance (for video interviews)

Not mapping out your directions, parking options, and commute time (for on-site interviews)

Not arriving early

Dressing inappropriately or wearing cologne or loud jewelry

Not being real

Not being yourself in your answers

Trying to pass off a memorized answer as authentic

Trying to pass off a BS answer as authentic

Ignoring the importance of rapport-building

Leaving without . . .

Finding out the next steps and time frames

Getting the names and contact information of all interviewers

Closing the sale

Think about

Key takeaways