You’re preparing for an interview. What are some common mistakes to avoid?

1 Research the company

One of the worst things you can do in an interview is to show up unprepared. You should research the company you're applying to, their products, services, values, and goals. This will help you tailor your answers, show your interest, and ask relevant questions. You can use their website, social media, news articles, and industry reports to learn more about them.

2 Review your resume

Your resume is your first impression, and you want it to be accurate, clear, and relevant. Before your interview, review your resume and make sure it highlights your skills, achievements, and projects that relate to the IT position you're applying for. You should also be ready to explain any gaps, changes, or challenges in your work history. And don't forget to check for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors.

3 Practice your skills

As an IT professional, you're expected to have both technical and soft skills. You should practice your skills before your interview, especially if you have to do a coding test, a presentation, or a case study. You can use online platforms, mock interviews, or feedback from peers or mentors to sharpen your skills and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You should also prepare some examples of how you used your skills to solve problems, work in teams, or learn new things.

4 Dress appropriately

Even if you're applying for a remote or casual IT job, you should still dress appropriately for your interview. You don't have to wear a suit, but you should avoid anything too casual, sloppy, or distracting. You should also consider the company culture, the industry standards, and the interviewer's expectations. You want to look professional, confident, and respectful.

5 Be punctual and polite

Being late or rude for your interview is a sure way to make a bad impression. You should plan ahead, check the traffic, the weather, and the location of your interview. You should also test your equipment, your internet connection, and your background if you're doing a video call. You should arrive or log in at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time, and greet your interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake. You should also be polite and courteous to everyone you meet, from the receptionist to the hiring manager.

6 Follow up after the interview

After your interview, you should send a thank-you note to your interviewer, preferably within 24 hours. You should express your appreciation, restate your interest, and highlight your main qualifications. You should also mention something specific that you discussed or learned during the interview. This will show your professionalism, your enthusiasm, and your attention to detail. You should also keep in touch with your interviewer until you hear back from them, but don't be too pushy or impatient.