A recent BBC article shared the story of a candidate whose interview was reportedly cut short after they arrived carrying an iced coffee. While grabbing your favourite coffee on the way to an interview might seem like the least of your worries, it turns out that even the smallest details can sometimes make an impression.
Of course, an iced coffee isn't likely to be the deciding factor in every interview. But there are some mistakes that could make a much bigger difference.
From turning up without knowing what the company actually does to treating the interview like a quick chat with a mate, here are five common interview mistakes to avoid.
Not doing your research
Turning up to an interview without knowing much about the company or role can quickly become apparent.
Take some time beforehand to understand what the organisation does, its values and the responsibilities of the role you're applying for. You don't need to memorise its entire website, but being able to show that you've done your homework demonstrates genuine interest and preparation.
Giving overly rehearsed answers
Preparing for common interview questions is a good idea, but there's a difference between being prepared and sounding like you've memorised a script.
Rather than learning answers word-for-word, think about examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills. This will help your answers feel more natural and allow you to adapt them to the questions you're asked.
Speaking negatively about a previous employer
We all have days when we've had enough of work. But an interview probably isn't the best place to unpack everything your previous manager did that annoyed you.
If you're asked why you're looking for a new opportunity, keep your answer professional and focus on what you're looking for next. Talk about developing your skills, taking on a new challenge or progressing your career rather than criticising your previous workplace.
Not answering the questions
When you're nervous, it can be easy to go off on a tangent - and suddenly your answer to "Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team" has somehow become a five-minute story about your last holiday.
Take a moment to think before answering and, where possible, use specific examples to demonstrate your experience. If you're unsure what the interviewer means, don't be afraid to ask them to clarify.
Not having follow-up questions prepared
When an interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions for us?", responding with a quick "No, I think you've covered everything" can be a missed opportunity.
Think of a couple of questions before the interview. You could ask about the team, what success looks like in the role, opportunities for development or what the next steps in the recruitment process will be.
After all, an interview isn't just an opportunity for an employer to decide whether you're right for the role – it's also your chance to decide whether the role is right for you.
