Interviewing Mistakes: Avoid These for the Job of Your Dreams

The job interviewing process can create anxiety. Many of us are unaware of why we don’t get a call back. Avoiding these four interviewing mistakes can help get you the job of your dreams.

A common interviewing mistake is repeatedly mentioning your resume. Being invited to interview validates your qualifications, so every answer should not be according to a resume they’ve already seen. They want to understand the person behind the experience, therefore show them who you are. Keep in mind, showing who you are expands beyond what you tell the interviewer. Oftentimes, we are unaware of our demeanor because we program ourselves to be “professional”, which usually translates to being stiff and unfortunately boring. Be present and showcase your personality throughout the interview. Don’t be afraid to show your quirks. In fact, relativity can make or break your chances of getting the job.

During the interview, it is normal to reflect on past work experience, but use discretion. For example, if the interviewer wants to know about your previous work at the local diner, mentioning every failure and negative trait will not make them hire you. Employers want to believe you can build yourself up after failure and focusing on how hard it is to overcome adversity is a red flag. They want to make sure you are an asset, so unless the details you give show how you’ve learned and transcended your past mistakes, it’s probably best to keep them to yourself.

One of the greatest mistakes made in interviews is the inability to pick up on the energy in the room. The awareness it takes to read the interviewer and mirror their energy is a way to form a connection that will most likely get you hired because it shows adaptability. You want the interview to flow, especially if the interviewer is in an anxious mood or irritated. Getting the interviewer to relax magnifies your chances of landing the job.

Following these tips can better your chances of impressing the employer. Remember, out of every applicant that applied, they called you. Therefore, be confident and go with the flow. One day, you may end up on the interviewer side one day.