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

2 Poor communication

Another common mistake is to communicate poorly during the interview. This can include speaking too fast or too slow, mumbling or rambling, using filler words or slang, being vague or irrelevant, or interrupting or dominating the conversation. To avoid this mistake, you need to practice your communication skills. Prepare and rehearse your answers to common interview questions, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your stories. Speak clearly, confidently, and concisely, using positive and professional language. Listen actively and attentively, asking for clarification or feedback if needed. Show enthusiasm, interest, and respect, using appropriate body language and eye contact.

3 Negative attitude

A third common mistake is to display a negative attitude during the interview. This can include complaining or criticizing your previous employers, colleagues, or clients, expressing dissatisfaction or frustration with your current situation, or showing arrogance or entitlement. To avoid this mistake, you need to adopt a positive attitude. Focus on your achievements, strengths, and contributions, rather than your failures, weaknesses, and challenges. Emphasize your motivation, passion, and potential, rather than your limitations, problems, and demands. Demonstrate your gratitude, humility, and openness, rather than your resentment, pride, or defensiveness.

4 Lack of examples

A fourth common mistake is to lack concrete examples to back up your claims and skills. This can include making general or vague statements, using clichés or buzzwords, or avoiding details or results. To avoid this mistake, you need to provide specific examples to illustrate your points and skills. Use the STAR method to describe real situations where you applied your knowledge, abilities, and experience to achieve positive outcomes. Quantify your results with numbers, percentages, or metrics, if possible. Highlight how your examples are relevant and transferable to the role and organization you are applying for.

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?