8 (Simple to fix ) Reasons Why People Fail At Interviews

You’re getting the interviews, so the CV’s not the problem. You’ve got the skills they want, yet you still haven’t managed to get that job you want?

Logically then, something must be going wrong in the interview itself. You’re certainly not alone in finding interviews tough; lots of us get a bit rattled and walk away knowing we didn’t show ourselves off in our best light.

Here are some of the most common pitfalls of people who strike out at interview stage and some recommendations on how to impress.

1. Not doing your research on the company.

This is inexcusable; no company in their right mind will hire someone who hasn’t had the sense (or shown the respect) to have a good look at their website.

Solution: Spend at least one hour familiarising yourself with their website and coming up with some potential questions about their products, goals and how you might fit into the company.

2. Not having prepared for the right type of interview.

If you find yourself facing an unfamiliar interview technique, most people will flounder

Solution: Ask beforehand what kind of interview it will be, and prepare accordingly. Competency-based interviews are increasingly common and take a particular type of preparation.

3. Pretending to know…when you don’t have a clue.

Candidates often panic that not knowing the answer to a question will ruin their chances. Yet in reality, waffling on when you don’t know what you’re talking about is much more likely to raise alarm bells, as it shows you’re unwilling to admit to not knowing something.

Solution: Admit that you don’t know, but show the interviewer that you’re a problem solver. Perhaps ask them to give you more information so you can offer an idea of what you’d hypothetically do, or explain something you did along similar lines.

4. Showing off.

It’s good to be confident in an interview, but no-one wants to invite someone with an overwhelming ego into a workplace. Yes, you’re probably nervous and desperate to show how useful you’re going to be, but showing off just doesn’t work in an interview setting.

Solution: Tone it down a bit. Talk about your achievements in an even tone, and in a way that also casts good light on other people involved. This shows you are proud of your achievements, but not trying to seize all the glory.

5. Forgetting to ask questions.

You can be a great prospect on paper, but fall down because your mind went blank when they asked if you had any questions. We’ve all done it- and then we walk out of the interview kicking ourselves for forgetting to ask things.

Solution: This is where that website preparation we mentioned comes in handy. Also, interviewers want to see that you are considering your long-term future, so ask questions about where they see the company going and what your career progression could be.

6. Complaining about an old boss or job.

This is a terrible, terrible idea- but it is understandable why it is so tempting. You’re trying to explain why you left in a way that makes you look good, but the danger is that you will come off as a disgruntled employee who talks about former companies.

Solution: Focus on the good about your last job- If you’re asked why you left, say something generic like ‘I learnt so much but it was time to move on’. Yes, there’s a chance that the interviewer will interpret this as the code that it is, but will also respect your professional attitude in not divulging a company’s dirty laundry.

7. Talking about money too much, too soon.

When we said have questions prepared, we didn’t mean your leading questions should be about your salary.

Solution: Wait until you’re in a stronger negotiating position.

8. You forget to follow up.

Many people don't appreciate how sending a follow up note positions them as different. If you didn't get the role in question it might be disappointing and doesn't me it's forever just not now. A follow up note shows everyone you are keen..

Solution: Just send us an email saying you appreciated the interview. Doesn’t need to be long, we just need to know that you want the job.

If you prepare well, avoid these common mistakes and look the part, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t blitz those interviews. Good luck!

Best regards

David

About David Mattinson

David Mattinson is one of the MD's and founders at Mattinson Partnership. Specialist recruiters in six main vertical sectors covering; sustainability through civils, transport, planning, building services and the environment.

To find out how they can help you secure that key role or ensure you attract high quality candidates to your team get in touch here. Mattinson Partnership. Or call one of our consultants on 0207 960 2550.