Article

***Interviewing No’s: What Not to Do on your Next Job Interview

Topic: Career TransitionPublished May 20, 2009

Legacy signals

Legacy popularity: 912 legacy views

Reader rating

Not enough ratings yet

Aggregate average appears after enough eligible reader ratings.

Rate this resource

Sign in to rate this resource.

Sign in to rate this resource

A job interview may seem pretty standard- you go, you shake hands, you smile, you answer questions and you leave. However, there are so many different mistakes you can make in that short period of time that can cost you a second interview or a position. When you are going through a career transition, it is often hard to remember the proper interview etiquette. That’s why we’ve addressed some of the most common mistakes in the interview process so you know what NOT to do. Sometimes the easiest way to the top is knowing which pitfalls to avoid on the way. n
    n
  1. Winging it: even the smoothest talker should always practice for a job interview. You need to do the research and practice your questions and answers to avoid stuttering and stammering like a fool. Furthermore, the more you practice, the more confident you will be. This will show through during the interview. nn
  2. Arriving late: there are so many things that can mess up your trip to the interview- traffic, missed bus, slept late. Plan for these things. Get up extra early and get to the interview early. Even if you have to sit around in your car for 15 minutes, this is better than strolling in 15 minutes late. nn
  3. Giving the wrong answers: sometimes your answers simply are not good enough. This usually happens when your skills/experience/strengths/etc are not directly connected to the position. Many people will have a set speech in all interviews; however, if your skills are not catered to that specific position and interview, then this will come off as unprepared. nn
  4. Bad mouthing past employers: it’s easy to say that the reason you quit is because your boss is a jerk, or that you are currently looking into a career change because you hated the people you worked with, but this is not a good answer. It will reflect poorly on your personal and communication skills. nn
  5. Asking the wrong questions: when the interview is nearing the end, your interviewer will most likely ask if you have additional questions. This does not mean you should ask about holidays, compensation and benefits. These will be addressed later on if they have not already been discussed. Instead, focus on questions about the position. nn
  6. Dressing inappropriately: an interview is not a trip to the pub, nor is it a black tie event. You need to dress in business clothes. This includes suits, ties, black polished shoes, pencil skirts, blouses and blazers. Dress conservatively and limit your makeup and jewelry. Make sure you are also well groomed and clean shaven. nn
  7. Not reacting: an interview is more than just question and answer time. You need to connect to your interviewer and prove that there is a spark, a personality behind the words. Make eye contact, smile, use your hands, concentrate on your mannerisms and show enthusiasm. After all, no one wants to hire a robot, even if he has all the right answers. You need to make your presence known. n

Article author

About the Author

David Couper is a career coach and writer who for the last twenty years has worked in Europe, Asia, and in the USA with major organizations including the BBC, Fuji Television, Mattel, Sony, and Warner Bros. He has successfully coached individuals at all levels including CEOs of major companies wanting a new challenge, frustrated souls wanting to make their dream come true, and front-line employees laid off and desperate to get a job. David has published seven books. His works on interpersonal skills, counseling in the workplace, and management issues (published by Connaught, Gower, HRD Press, Longman, Macmillan/Pearson Publishing, Oxford University Press) have been translated into Swedish, Polish, and Danish, and published in the UK and the USA. David has a degree in Communication, a postgraduate qualification in education, is certified in a number of training technologies, and has a Masters in Psychology. He is a member of the American Society of Training and Development, Society of Human Resources Professional, Writers Guild and the British Academy of Film and Television. He has dual US/UK citizenship and speaks French and Japanese. Additional Resources covering Career Change can be found at:nnnnWebsite Directory for Career ChangennArticles on Career ChangennProducts for Career ChangennDiscussion BoardnnDavid Couper, the Official Guide To Career Changen.

Further reading

Further Reading

4 total

Article

Innovation is the engine that drives modern businesses forward. From developing new software to improving manufacturing processes, companies invest significant time and money into research and development. However, many organizations—especially small and mid-sized ones—are unaware that governments often reward this innovation through generous tax incentives. Understanding how R&D tax credits work can help businesses reinvest savings into future growth, talent, and technol

February 5, 2026

Article

The Social Security System (SSS) offers several ways for members to reach out for help, whether it’s about benefits, contributions, or account concerns. Knowing the right contact method can save time and ensure your issue is resolved quickly. 1. Contact SSS via Hotline The fastest way to get in touch is through the official SSS hotline. You can dial 1455 using any local phone within the Philippines. This line connects you directly to the SSS call center, where representativ

October 16, 2025

Article

As online gaming continues to grow in popularity, ensuring a safe and secure environment for players has become increasingly important. Toto Site (í† í† ì‚¬ì´íŠ¸) play a crucial role in promoting safe online gaming by offering verification services, security assessments, and educational resources. These efforts help protect players from fraud, unfair practices, and other risks commonly associated with unregulated platforms. Understanding how a Toto site supports safe gaming

August 21, 2025

Article

Sports bring the world together. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, cricket, or any other game, the passion of fans knows no borders. But how do you stay updated and watch live, uninterrupted streams of your favorite international sports? With mlb free streaming (mlb무료중계), fans are tuning in worldwide to enjoy the most exciting matches as they happen. Here’s how Shasha TV is redefining the way sports lovers connect with their favorite games. rnWhy Fans Are Turning t

May 1, 2025