It’s common knowledge that high powered fields like IT and finance have their share of professionals who goof up when it comes to interviews. While it is reassuring in a way to know that they too are human, it doesn’t do too well to stereotype them into such well used slots. Of course, these are mistakes that can be largely avoided and the uncomfortable situations that arise as a result can also be circumvented.
So, here are a few of the common mistakes which technical professionals tend to make during interviews:
• Shoddy appearance – Some people feel that by virtue of their experience or caliber, they can get away by not taking care of their appearance. This is not the sole reason why they are chosen or rejected at interviews, but looks form a part of the first impression and as we all know, first impressions are really important. Remember to be well groomed and neat at every interview, no matter how talented or qualified you are.
• Minimum research – It’s always a good idea to delve into the important details of the organization where you are going for an interview. Interviewers expect you to know certain facts about the company and your ignorance could signal arrogance and lack of interest to the interviewer.
• Too less, too much – Sometimes people tend to talk too much to mask their nervousness, or they may answer in monosyllables for the same reason. Both attitudes ring a death knell when it comes to interviews. As far as possible, try to quickly apprehend the style of the interviewer. If they are businesslike and firm, be the same in your manner and if they appear to be interested in you, offer them some information about yourself without doing an overkill.
• Eye contact – (read with flashing alarm signs) – This one is so important and yet most people tend to avoid making eye contact with their interviewers. By shying away from eye contact, you instantly appear nervous and uncomfortable. Of course, one shouldn’t overdo it also, because that would make the interviewer feel uncomfortable.
• Late or early – Too late and too early, both give bad impressions to the interviewer. In the case of too late, it shows that you do not care to keep to your word and you’re not serious about the job. If you feel traffic justifies your tardiness, leave ahead of time. However, do not arrive too early also as it will make you look desperate and could have a significant effect in the offer they make you.
• Fresh resume – When was the last time you updated your resume? Ages ago? Not good enough. Get down to it and update your resume and take a copy with you. Even though the interviewers might have a copy, it’s still a good idea to take one along for reference.
While these mistakes might seem to be the kind anybody can make, they do hold true for technical professionals just as well.
As an HR professional, these are mistakes I’ve seen all candidates make, not just IT and finance. Another big one is not asking any questions at the end of the interview. Regardless of what has transpired during the interview, a good candidate should always have a few prepared questions for the end. It shows interest and preparation.
As far as being late or early, I’ve seen more candidates arrive too early. This is presumptuous and irritating to a lot of employers who often have meetings scheduled right up until the interview time. The rule I’ve followed as a candidate is to check in within five minutes of my interview time, nothing sooner. If I arrive sooner than that (and I usually do because I want to make sure I don’t get lost), I sit in the car outside and review my notes.