Fortune Magazine recently published a list of their Top 10 Interview Blunders. It was written like a David Letterman Top 10 list, counting down the most egregious mistakes toward #1. The list was good, but I have a slightly different take. Here is my top 10 list of interview blunders I recently helped to prevent:
#10 – The long winded response. Have you ever asked a question and the responder rambled on longer than your 6th grade history teacher? Get to the point already! Practice your responses and keep your answers concise and complete.
#9 – The “Bitterina” effect. We have all been wronged in our life. Be it personal relationships, professional relationships, family members or past employers that have created discomfort; there is NO value in taking this anguish with you to the job interview. Maintain your smile, confidence, charm and enthusiasm for the position.
#8 – The quizzical look. Nothing says “throw me a lifeline, I’m dying over here” like having that deer in the headlight look when the interviewer asks you a question. If you are unsure of how to respond, ask the interview to repeat the question. “I’m sorry, would you please repeat the question?” is a good way to buy you some time. Or, ask a clarifying question, such as “I’m not sure I completely understand your question. Would you mind rephrasing it?”
#7 – The Dumb Question. We were taught that there is no such thing as a dumb question. In the context of an interview, I completely. Asking questions such as: “Can you elaborate on your drug policy?”, “How big is your company”, or asking any other superficial question that you can easily find the answer to by doing a little bit of research is a sure fire way to get bounced from the selection process. Go in demonstrating you have done your homework.
#6 – May I barrow some paper? Always bring a note pad and something to write with. Valuable information is going to be shared and you do not want to give the impression that you are disinterested. Take a pad and writing instrument with you to take notes during the interview. Notes include interesting factoids about the company and pieces of information you’d like to inquire about at an appropriate time.
#5 – Obvious desperation. It’s no secret that you want the job. Employers want the best candidate available and that person will not show desperation at the interview. Maintain your poise and your confidence.
#4 – Failing to identify the next step. Too often, interviews end and the candidate fails to ask what the next step is in the process. Are they going to contact you? Do they have more candidates to interview? Will there be a decision made this week? What is the appropriate method to follow up? Do not walk out the door without being clear on the next steps and expected time frame.
#3 – The hasty getaway. Do not make the mistake of rushing out the door. Leave a positive lasting impression. Take the time on the way out to thank the people you met for their time. Collect business cards of those you met with, or have a conversation with the receptionist on the way out to gather names and titles. You don’t want to misspell someone’s name on a thank you note.
#2 – Leaving the ball in their court. Proper follow up is essential. Demonstrate you want that position. Confirm with them that the interview solidified your interest in the company and that you are interested in lending your skills and talents to help them achieve their goals and objectives.
#1 – The debrief. While the interview is fresh in your mind, go over the details to prepare you for the next conversation. Consider the following:
• What worked?
• What didn’t work?
• What was missing?
• What are the new opportunities?
• What are my next steps?
What are your experiences? Please share them on the blog.
