Nervous for a big interview? Don’t sweat it! We’re about to break down some of the most common and easily avoidable job interview mistakes so that you won’t make them. We will also provide you with a unique insight into what employers’ questions are really asking, and how to meet their criteria.
Common Interview Mistakes:
- You aren’t prepared to answer the interviewer’s questions
Below our most common interview mistakes, we have listed some sample questions along with key concepts that an employer may be looking for in a response. We also have links to more examples of sample questions at the bottom of the page. The best way to prepare is to practice!
- When it’s your turn to ask questions, you don’t have any!
Take advantage of your chance to ask questions! Just like employers ask questions to gauge how you will fit in in their organization you can ask questions to figure out how you feel about their organization. Employers will gladly answer any questions you might have, as long as they are professional and relevant.
Sample Interview Questions:
- Tell me about a time you had to make a decision without knowing all of the available information
With a question like this, employers are looking to judge your decision-making abilities. They may also be looking for a demonstration of character traits such as integrity or credibility. Lastly, they may look for responsibility, that whatever the situation and whatever the choice you made you accept responsibility for your actions even if the situation ended badly.
- Tell me about the most difficult time you have had trying to explain something to someone
A question like this may be trying to determine whether or not you are an overall effective communicator. Interviewers would like to see that you handled an uncomfortable, even frustrating situation in a calm manner. Lastly, the interviewer may be evaluating your people skills in that you are acting in the best interests of others and listen to and accommodating the needs of others.
Now that you’ve gotten taste of what employer’s may be looking for, it’s time to practice your responses! Try to use situations that involved a lot of decision making, to show employers that you are up to the challenge of making tough decisions. Lastly, be honest but be aware of when you are oversharing and giving too many irrelevant details to your employer. Good luck! If you found our post helpful in any way, leave us a comment and let us know!