Avoid These 6 Interview Mistakes to Stand Out as a Candidate

1. Lack of Preparation

Mistake: Not researching the company or understanding the role in-depth is one of the top interview blunders. Interviewers can quickly spot candidates who haven’t done their homework, and it signals a lack of enthusiasm or commitment.

How to Avoid It:

• Take time to explore the company’s website, mission, recent news, and industry reputation.
• Understand the role requirements and prepare questions that demonstrate your genuine interest.
• Use LinkedIn or the official company website to get insight into the company culture and any recent news or achievements.

Bonus Tip: Preparing some key points on how your skills align with the company’s goals can make your answers stand out.

2. Arriving Late or Too Early

Mistake: Being late is an obvious red flag, but arriving too early can also be problematic, as it may create pressure on the interviewer or disrupt their schedule.

How to Avoid It:

• Aim to arrive about 10-15 minutes before your interview time. This allows you to compose yourself without appearing too eager.
• Plan your route in advance, accounting for potential traffic or transportation issues.

Bonus Tip: If you arrive too early, wait outside or nearby, then enter just a few minutes before your interview slot.

3. Poor Body Language

Mistake: Fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, slouching, or appearing disinterested can all send the wrong message to interviewers, regardless of what you’re saying.

How to Avoid It:

• Practice your body language beforehand. Sit up straight, maintain appropriate eye contact, and use hand gestures to convey enthusiasm.
• If nervous, practice deep breathing before the interview to help calm your nerves.

Bonus Tip: Mirror the body language of your interviewer subtly; this can help create rapport and show that you’re engaged.

4. Talking Too Much—or Too Little

Mistake: Rambling on without focus or offering only short, curt answers can both be detrimental. Rambling can make you seem unorganised, while short responses may indicate disinterest or a lack of engagement.

How to Avoid It:

• Practice answering questions in the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep answers focused and relevant.
• Keep responses concise but detailed enough to highlight your expertise. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per answer.

Bonus Tip: If you find yourself going off-track, pause and ask the interviewer if they would like more detail on any specific point.

5. Not Asking Thoughtful Questions

Mistake: When interviewers ask if you have any questions, responding with a simple “no” or asking something generic can reflect poorly on your level of interest and preparation.

How to Avoid It:

• Prepare at least 3-5 questions in advance, focusing on topics like team dynamics, company culture, and growth opportunities within the role.
• Avoid questions solely focused on salary or benefits unless prompted by the interviewer.

Bonus Tip: Tailor your questions to show you’ve done your homework. For example, “I saw the company recently launched a new product. Can you share how this role contributes to its success?”

6. Focusing Only on Skills and Not Cultural Fit

Mistake: Many candidates make the error of focusing solely on their skills and qualifications, ignoring how well they might fit with the company’s culture and values.

How to Avoid It:

• Read up on the company culture, values, and mission statements before the interview.
• Think of specific examples that show how your personality and values align with those of the company.

Bonus Tip: Showing genuine interest in the company’s culture can help interviewers envision you as a team player who will thrive in their environment.