How to Land Your Dream Job by Avoiding These 5 Job Interview Mistakes

“Giving vague, clipped answers causes a lack of trust; it shows me that someone is unprepared and doesn’t have a deliberate approach to their work.” - Holly Lee, Leadership coach.

When it comes to passing a job interview, first impressions do matter.

Here are the top five job interview mistakes you should avoid to be successful at your next interview:

1. Being Unprepared

   It is crucial to arrive at your interview looking confident, well-organized, and prepared. You should read up on the company's background and familiarize yourself with its key members. Make sure you fully understand the role on offer. Failing to do this can make you appear uninterested or lazy. Prepare for your interview by studying the most common job interview questions. You should also figure out in advance how you will get to your interview and which route you will take to avoid being late. Some delays are unavoidable and out of your control, but unless they are life-threatening, they shouldn't keep you from making the interview. Just be sure to take all the details of your job interview with you so you can call if you encounter any problems along the way.

   
   

   

   
   

2. Dressing Inappropriately

   How you present yourself through your appearance is extremely important. Choose your outfit carefully. Clothes should be clean and freshly ironed. Showing up to a job interview in ripped jeans and tennis shoes does not give a professional impression. Try investing in a nice business folio or folder to keep your notes, copies of your resume, and other important documents organized and handy. This will also make you look more put-together and professional.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Talking Too Much or Not Enough

   You need to establish a balance between talking too much and talking too little. According to a former Google and Amazon leadership coach, Holly Lee, from an article by CNBC, “People are either overconfident and think that their resumes speak for themselves, that they only need to provide a vague, short answer, or don’t take the proper time to reflect on how, exactly, their work is benefitting a company’s bottom line — the who, what, when, where and why of it all". Employers understand that nerves are a part of the job interview process, but try to avoid talking about everything at once. Give clear, concise answers to questions while highlighting your skills and experience without rambling. A good practice is to have several examples from your studies and previous work experience to draw upon.

   
   

   

   
   

4. Criticising Previous Employers or Colleagues

   It is never a good idea to complain about your previous employer or colleagues. Speaking negatively about your previous or current job will most likely ruin your chances of success because it gives employers the wrong impression of you. It makes them question what you might say about them under similar circumstances. Instead of highlighting others' mistakes, you should emphasize the positive steps you took to overcome them. This not only demonstrates your loyalty but also shows how proactive you can be.

   
   

   

   
   

5. Failing to Ask Questions

   Near the end of the job interview, most employers will ask you if you have any questions. It is not a good idea to say no. This is your opportunity to get answers about the role and the company, so don't waste it. Asking relevant questions shows that you are interested in the job. Some examples are asking about any current projects the company or your potential team is working on, any growth opportunities, or where the company sees itself in five years. Avoid asking about paid leave or things that were already covered during the interview. It's a good idea to have at least three to five questions written down on a notepad before your interview.

   
   

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-racking, but by avoiding these five mistakes, you can interview with confidence and increase your chances of success.

Citations and Sources

1. The wordsmith. (2024a, January 26). The no. 1 reason people “fail” job interviews, says ex-Amazon recruiter: “it causes a lack of trust.” CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/26/ex-amazon-recruiter-the-no-1-reason-people-fail-job-interviews.html

   
   

2. Swain, W. by R. (n.d.). Top 5 job interview mistakes. Prospects.ac.uk. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/top-5-job-interview-mistakes

   
   

3. Swain, W. by R. (n.d.-a). Interview questions. Prospects.ac.uk. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/interview-questions

Author’s Bio

Isabella Boston is a wordsmith and the creator of Bella’s Attic Studio®: A multi-media writing platform and storytelling blog specializing in copywriting, marketing, and content writing.

She is well-versed in medical terminology and scientific research with a focus on neuroscience, immunology, and functional health. She is also a diarist, creative nonfiction writer, and self-published author.

Aside from being a writer, Isabella is a lover of books and vintage fashion, a language enthusiast, and, most importantly, a woman of God in Christ Jesus.

"Together we can share your stories, promote your cause, and connect you to your target audience one word at a time."