One of the most common mistakes is being too quick to answer a question. Whether out of nerves or habit, it can cause immediate regret. It is a good idea to anticipate an interviewer’s question by understanding what information they are looking for, however do not jump the gun. You might be able to ask a follow up question to clarify what the interviewer meant. If it is too late for that, then honesty is the best policy. Just apologise and start answering the question again.
Another interview mistake that is often inevitable is making your answers seem too rehearsed. This is an easy mistake to make, as good preparation is important to getting through the interview in one piece. However, sounding like you are reading from a script will not come off very well. If you find yourself doing this, try to relax and be more natural. You know the key points you want to get across, so convey that information in a more improvised way. It will come across as less scripted and more ‘you’, which is what the interviewer wants to hear.
Not asserting yourself enough is another easy mistake to make. Be more proactive if you think your answers are too shallow or if you are giving the interviewer the wrong impression of yourself. You can do this by providing some additional information about yourself, which you think is pertinent to the question that was asked. Tell your interviewer about the strengths you possess, or even be honest about your weaknesses in a way that conveys a willingness to improve through experience and hard work.
These are only a snapshot of the things that can go wrong in an interview, but they are some of the most common. With a bit of quick thinking and charm, you can still correct your mistakes before it is too late!
Adam Watson
Photo credit: Designed by katemangostar / Freepik