What are the most common job interview mistakes you make?

1 Dressing inappropriately

One of the first things the interviewer will notice is your appearance. How you dress can convey your professionalism, personality, and fit for the role. Dressing inappropriately can ruin your first impression and make you seem careless, disrespectful, or out of touch. To avoid this mistake, research the company culture and dress code before the interview. Choose an outfit that is clean, comfortable, and appropriate for the industry and position. Avoid anything that is too casual, flashy, revealing, or distracting. You want to look polished, confident, and respectful.

3 Showing negative attitude

Another common mistake is showing negative attitude during the interview. This can make you seem arrogant, rude, or pessimistic. To avoid this mistake, be positive, polite, and enthusiastic throughout the interview. Smile, make eye contact, and use a friendly tone of voice. Show interest in the company, the role, and the interviewer. Avoid criticizing your previous employers, coworkers, or clients. Avoid complaining, blaming, or making excuses. Avoid expressing doubt, uncertainty, or desperation. You want to show that you are a professional, a team player, and a problem solver.

4 Forgetting to ask questions

Another common mistake is forgetting to ask questions at the end of the interview. This can make you seem passive, uncurious, or unprepared. To avoid this mistake, prepare some thoughtful and relevant questions to ask the interviewer. These questions should demonstrate your interest in the company, the role, and the expectations. They should also help you learn more about the culture, the challenges, and the opportunities. Avoid asking questions that are too personal, too obvious, or too self-centered. You want to show that you are a proactive, curious, and engaged candidate.

5 Failing to follow up

Another common mistake is failing to follow up after the interview. This can make you seem ungrateful, unprofessional, or uninterested. To avoid this mistake, send a thank-you note to the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. This note should express your appreciation, restate your interest, and highlight your main qualifications. It should also address any concerns, clarify any points, or provide any additional information that you didn't mention during the interview. Avoid being too pushy, too casual, or too generic. You want to show that you are a courteous, professional, and interested candidate.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?