5 ways to completely screw up a job interview

8/13/2019 5 Ways to Completely Screw Up a Job Interview

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5 Ways to Completely Screw Up a Job InterviewRate this Entry1 Comment

byConnie, 16th December 2011 at 06:55 PM (180 Views)

No matter how qualified you are for a job position, there are plenty of ways to mess up your chances. Particularly in a job interview,it is so important to present yourself in the right light and make a strong, positive impression on a potential employer.

Whatever you do, don't make these 5 rookie mistakes.

1. Come empty handed

Even if an employer doesn't specifically ask you to bring anything, never, ever come with nothing. Make sure you always bring afew copies of your resume, your portfolio, a pen and a pad of paper.

2. Dress inappropriately

As a rule of thumb, always dress one step above the office standard. If the company you are interviewing with has a businesscasual environment, make sure you dress more formally. If the office is casual, dress up a bit. Wear dress slacks and formal shirt.

What you wear signifies a level of respect. Make sure your potential employer knows that you value his or her time and thecompany.

3. Forget to research

Your interview is not just about you. You need to show the employer how you would fit into their company, and before you can dothat, you need to have some information. Before coming in for an interview, get online and find out about the company's productsand services, its competition, target customers, culture, etc.

4. Improvise

You got an interview and that is not always easy. Don't blow your chances by winging it as you go. Make sure you practiceinterviewing before you go so you don't fall victim to the pressure and your nerves. Practicing can really help.

5. Get there on time

At first this faux pa may seem counter intuitive, but if you've ever heard the ditty "If youre 10 minutes early, youre on time; ifyoure on time, youre late; if youre late, dont bother showing up," you might know what I mean.

Always get to an interview early, at least 10 minutes before your scheduled start time. Plan to get lost; account for bad traffic.Always overestimate the amount of time it is going to take to get there because your potential employers time is valuable and youdon't want to waste a chance to show them how great you are!

Tell me, what do you think? What are other ways that a job seeker can completely screw up a job interview?

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1.tarriff178-31st December 2011 12:49 AM

This is a good post. I believe people take the small things for granted. I would add choosing the appropriate colors under "Dressinappropriately". Certain colors don't work for an interview.

Cheers All !

Tarriff
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"Business growth using facebook"

When should job seekers use acurriculum vitae,commonly referred to as CV, rather than a resume? In the United States, a curriculum vitae isused primarily when applyingfor academic, education, scientific or research positions. It is also applicable when applying for fellowships or grants.

When asking for a job in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, or Asia, expect to submit a CV rather than a resume. Keep in mind that o verseas employers often

expect to read the type of personal information on a curriculum vitae that would never be included on an Americanresume,such as date of birth,

nationality and place of birth. United States law on what information job applicants can be asked to provide does not apply outside the country.

The Differences between a Resume and a CV

There are several differences between a curriculum vitae and a resume. A curriculum vitae is a longer (up to two or more pages), more detailed synopsis ofyour background and skills. A CV includes a summary of your educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience,

publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details. As with a resume, you may need different versions of a CV for different types ofpositions.

Like a resume, a curriculum vitae should include your name, contact information, education, skills and experience. In addition to the basics, a CV includes

research and teaching experience, publications, grants and fellowships, professional associations and licenses, awards and other information relevant to the

position you are applying for. Start by making a list of all your background information, then organize it into categories. Make sure you include dates on allthe publications you include.

Review CV Samples

It's often helpful to take a look at a sample or two before you start writing. Here are a selection of sample CVs, including versions for academia and for

international employment, to review:

Curriculum Vitae SamplesCurriculum vitae samples, formats and templates.

Need more help? Here are some additional resources:

Curriculum VitaeWhy, when and how to write a Curriculum Vitae.Create a Curriculum Vitae

Curriculum Vitae Samples

Curriculum Vitae: Resume or CV? CV Writing Guide

Curriculum Vitae Cover Letters

Curriculum Vitae Cover Letters

Curriculum Vitae Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter SamplesSuggested Reading

Top 10 CV Tips

Curriculum Vitae Writing Tips

Cover LettersRelated Articles

Curriculum Vitae

Curriculum Vitae Format Curriculum Vitae Example

Curriculum Vitae Template

Curriculum Vitae Tips - What Information to Include in Your CV
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Alison Doyle

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What Is a CV or Curriculum Vitae?

Letter and Email Writing Tips

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Two common strategies that apply to CVs as well as resumes are gappingandparallelism. Gapping is theuse of incomplete sentences in order to present your information as clearly and concisely as possibly. For example, insteadof writing, "I taught composition for four years, during which time I planned classes and activities, graded papers, andconstructed exams. I also met with students regularly for conferences," you might write, "Composition Instructor (2000-2004). Planned course activities. Graded all assignments. Held regular conferences with students." By using incompletesentences here, you cut out unnecessary words and allow your reader to see quickly what you have been doing.

Parallelismis also very important to a strong CV Generally, you will want to keep the structure of your phrasesand/or sentences consistent throughout your document. Thus, if you use verb phrases in one portion of your CV todescribe your duties, try to use them throughout your CV Particularly within entries, make sure that the structure of yourphrases is exactly parallel so that your reader can understand what you are communicating easily.

One distinction between the work description sections of resumes and CVs is that bullets are very commonly used inresumes and tend to appear somewhat less frequently in CVs. Whether or not you use bullets to separate lines in your CVshould depend on how the bullets will affect the appearance of your CV If you have a number of descriptive statementsabout your work that all run to about a line in length, bullets can be a good way of separating them. If, however, you havea lot of very short phrases, breaking them up into bulleted lists can leave a lot of white space that could be used moreefficiently. Remember that the principles guiding any decision you make should be conciseness and ease of readability.

Jobs.co.za highlights the differences between a Resume' and a Curriculum Vitae (CV):

Curriculum Vitae (CV) Resume'

A CV is distinctive by its detailed synopsis of all academic

accomplishments, educational background, work experience, skills

and personal achievements and should ideally be no longer than 3

A4 pages.

A CV is a comprehensive listing of long term employment history,

detailed job descriptions, academic qualifications, personal

A resume' is brief and concise in nature and should be no longer

than two A4 pages.

Resume's list simplified summaries of key skills, experience and

qualifications.

A resume' spells out deliverable skills and abilities and briefly

mentions high level accomplishments relating to these skills.
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information and professional affiliations.

A CV details personal information such as your physical and postal

address, various contact details, contactable references, addresses

of previous employers and relevant dates to which these apply.

A resume' omits detailed personal information that would be more

commonly found in a CV.The only personal information that is listed

in a resume' is a contact number and an email address.

The Difference Between CV and Resume Writing is Significant

When applying for a job, potential employers will ask you to submit aresume or curriculum vitae (CV). These

documents detail your work history, awards and academic achievements. The goal of each is to put forward

your qualifications. A resume or CV will be the first thing that a potential employer looks at. Clearly then, it is

important to include the most impressive and appropriate document. However, the question becomes which to

send? What is the difference between a CV and a resume?

Resumes

Resumes need to be an easily scannable document. An easy-to-scan format will go a long way towards getting a

resume through the initial readers. Limit the amount of fancy formatting and when in doubt, stick with simple

and easy to read. A compelling resume should have four standard sections: Objective, Summary, Work Historyand Education. There should be enough information in the resume to sell the applicant, but no more. The

general length is one page.

Potential employers need to understand what the applicant is capable of doing. Instead of listing just the job

specs, list achievements, what has been accomplished above and beyond. Job responsibilities could apply to

anyone who has held that particular job. They don't single the job applicant out as different, better and more

capable than the rest.

It is also important to realize that there is more than one resume format. Most job seekers try to make their

professional life fit into a chronological format, but it is not the best option for everyone. Another popular

format is the skills-based resume. This allows the focus to be on abilities and potential, not just past

achievements. Another option that is good for recent graduates is the education-based resume. There is a

resume format for everyone.

CV's

A CV tends to be longer than a traditional resume and includes a detailed listing of a person's professional and

academic history. A CV will include any position or job one has held, a complete list of academic credentials and

achievements, and information on publications. CVs can be many pages long, occasionaly up to 10 pages.
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Normally CVs are used in the medical and academic field.

The difference between CV and resume writing is significant both in terms of style and substance and it pays to

keep this in mind when applying for a new job.

You might also like:Introduction.

It is a two way exchange of information. Opportunity for both parties to market themselves.

Employer is selling the organisation to you.

You are marketing your skills, knowledge and personality to the employer.

Interview preparation is a critical part of the Interview.

Research about:

Yourself.

The Organisation.

Questions they may ask. Questions you may ask.

Know Yourself:

Thorough self assessment required. Develop a complete inventory of skills, experience and personal attributes to market yourself.

Start with Experience and then identify your skills.

Ten Most Marketable Skills

1. Analytical/ Problem Solving.

2. Flexibility/ Versatility.

3. Interpersonal.4. Oral/ Written Communication.

5. Organisation/ Planning.

6. Time Management.

7. Motivation.

8. Leadership.

9. Self Starter/ Initiative.

10. Team Player.

Self Analysis:

How have I demonstrated the skills required in this position? What are my strong points and weak points?

What are my short term and long term goals?

What can I offer this particular employer? What kind of environment do I like?

What do I like doing?

Apart from my skills and experience, what can I bring to this job?

Know the Occupation:

Research the Occupation and convince yourself that you have the experience and skills for it.


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Methods of research:

Use resources of a professional association if you belong to it.

Meet people working in that field.

Read articles about people/ written by people working in that occupation.

Read newspapers/ magazines; browse the internet.

Find out future trends in that area. Is technology changing the job?

Know about the Organisation:

The more you know about the organisation, the better prepared you shall be:

Where is it located?

How big is it?

What are its products and who does it serve?

How is the Organisation structured?

What is its history?

Have there been any recent changes? Any new developments?

Questions you can askIntelligent well thought out questions will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position. Some sample

questions are:

What are the most significant factors affecting your business today?

How do you differ from your competitors?

Can you tell me more about the training program?

How much travel is normally expected?

What are the career paths available in this organisation? When can I expect to hear from you regarding this position?

Dress EtiquettesMen

Pastel plane coloured shirts with dark trousers.

Tuck in shirts and do not roll up sleeves.

Ties(weather permitting) sober. Belts should match your shoes. Belt buckles should be small square/rectangular.

Socks black are the best. Shoes leather black with laces on them.

Hair Neat short hair preferably parted on the side.

Jewellery Wear no or little jewellery. Watch and wedding ring are the only acceptable pieces of jewelleryacceptable with mens attire.

Dress EtiquettesWomen

Three piece business suit.

Shoes Closed shoes or pumps, at least 1.5 inch heel, dark colours are the best.

Hair hair longer than shoulder length should be worn up or pulled back. Dont let it fall in front of yourface. Avoid large hair ornaments and trendy hair styles.

Make up. Be subtle; natural is the key word. Light shades of lip colouring and nail polish arerecommended.

Jewellery Be conservative. Studs of gold, silver or pearls are the best. Avoid gaudy fashion jewellery.

Accessories Folders and bags should blend with the total professional look. Women should match theirpurse with their shoe colour.

Mock Exercisebefore the Real Talk


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Hone your Interview Etiquette Churn the right mix of deportment, attitude and dressing skills for a great job talk!

Never treat an interview lightly. An Interview requires careful thought and planning.

Keep in mind the body language, basic etiquette, attitude and presentation techniques.

An Interview is the sum total of many parts. Its not just what you say but how you say it that mattersequally.

Seek permission before entering an interview room, introduce yourself and sit only when asked to do so. Have a lot of patience; take clues from the interviewers tone and expressions; show the certificates only

when asked.

Things that an Interviewer looks in You

Family Background.

Education. Experience.

Stability.

Initiative.

General Ability.

Interpersonal Skills.

Confidence. Aptitude.

Pleasant looks.

Interview is not a casual meeting but a pre meditated exercise which fetches you dividends only if your

homework is done alright.

Your Resume the first Interface

Follow basic Standards

Dont overcrowd yourresume.

Keep your Resume brief max two pages.

Use max of two fonts easy to read fonts.

Do not overemphasize by use of italics, underlines, capitalisation. Your name, address and contact number should appear at the top of the first page.

Print your resume on a white paper with a good printer.

Print on one side of the paper only. Avoid Mistakes: spelling, punctuation, grammatical. Double check for mistakes.

Do not include names and references in the resume.

Use of language is extremely important. Avoid large paragraphs.

Verbs such as Developed, Managed, Designed emphasise your accomplishments.

Avoid passive constructions such as Was responsible for managing, just say Managed

State facts Honesty is the best policy.

Types of Questions

Directive Questions.What skills do you have that relate to this position?

Non Directive Questions.Tell me about yourself.

Hypothetical or Scenario Questions.On your first day of working in our laboratory if a fire breaks out, what would you do?

Behaviour Descriptive or Behavioural Questions.Give me an example of a work situation in which you were proud of your performance.

Stress Questions.Which do you prefer, fruits or vegetables?


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Go through the Process

Establishing Rapport.

Smile and maintain eye contact. It exhibits confidence.

If the interviewer offers his or her hand, shake it firmly.

Wait until the Interviewer offers you a seat before sitting down. Participate in the talk with the Interviewer. Keep your answers short and positive.

Exchange of Information.

When you answer a question, look the Interviewer in the eye. Be aware of the Interviewers reactions. If he/she looks confused, ask if you can clarify anything.

Be aware of what your body is saying. Avoid closed postures. Sit upright but not stiffly.

Control your nervous habits: dont swing your feet; talk with too many gestures; fiddle with yourjewellery, buttons, pen, etc

Show that you are interested in the job by asking questions.

Try not to look bored or anxious. Dont look at your watch.

Closing the Interview.

Thank the Interviewer for his/her time and consideration.

Ask when you can expect to hear from him/her. If it is not known when a decision will be reached, ask if you can phone in a weeks time to inquire about

the progress.

If the interviewer offers his/her hand, shake it firmly.

Do Any of them Apply to you?

Oversell: Trying too hard to impress; bragging; acting aggressively.

Undersell: Failing to emphasise the facts that you have the related skills. Body Language: Be positive; dont look gloomy.

Lack of Honesty: Slightest stretch of the truth may result in you being screened out.

Negative Attitude: Dont complain about anything.

Lack of preparation: Know about the organisation and the position. Lack of Enthusiasm: Show interest about the position and the job.

Six Common Interview Mistakes

Dont discuss pay too early. Talk tech to techies only.

Keep your philosophy to yourself.

Dont climb the advancement ladder in the Interview. Avoid the dreaded electronic interruption.

Remember to sayThank You.

Ground work for Interviews

Enter in a state of relaxed concentration.

Act spontaneous but be well prepared.

Set goals for the Interview.

Know the question behind the question.

Consider the Interviewers agenda.


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Expect to answer the question, Tell me about yourself.

Watch those non verbal clues.

Be smart about money questions. Dont hang out your dirty laundry.

Follow up with an effective Thank You letter.

Posted by Bloggers Worldat10:44 PM

Dressing for an interviewThe suit

A single-breasted suit is appropriate for all fields of employment. When wearing a single-breasted suit with more than two buttons, you maybutton all of the buttons-except the bottom button. Most suits come with pants that are pleated (some double or tripled). They should feelfuller through the thigh and should be worn at your waist, not on your hips.

The "break of the pants" is the distance between the ground and the hem-line of the pants. Typically this should be about 1.5 inches, but canvary depending on the style of pants and material.

Fabric & colourLook for suits made of 100% "worsted" wool. Wool is a natural fiber that breathes, which means you'll be more comfortable, you'll perspireless and the fabric will travel well. Look for suit jackets that are fully lined and pants that are lined to the knee. Lining increases comfort andreduces wrinkling. Adding a crotch liner to your suit pants will reduce the abrasion between your thighs and the fabric. Crotch liners help yourpants last longer.

Your first interview suit depends in large part on the type of job for which you're interviewing, but charcoal gray and navy blue are alwaysappropriate. Whether pinstriped, plaid, solid, or herringbone, these colors always represent a professional look and are ideal for moreconservative fields like accounting, law, and medicine. Two-button, vented, and softer shoulder garments in medium to dark tones are idealfor these types of interviews. Generally, you have more creative options for the color and style if you work in a more creative environment.

The shirtWhite and other light coloured shirts are best for your first interview. One hundred percent cotton works best for shirts for the same reasonsthat wool works well for suits: it breathes, so you perspire less and feel more comfortable. Always wear a long-sleeved dress shirt to yourinterview and for all business occasions.

It should be smooth around the neck and allow for an index finger of breathing room in the collar. A tee shirt worn underneath your dressshirt gives you added protection against noticeable perspiration and will help your shirt last longer.

The tiesThe pattern/design should be conservative, not flashy. The tie color should match your shirt/suit color.

Silk ties assure the best knot. They can also be dry cleaned. A (silk or silk-like) tie should coordinate with the jacket and pant but choose onethat strongly contrasts with the color of your shirt; selecting subtle or simple patterns enhances credibility.

The accessoriesWhen coordinating colors, remember, leather to leather and metal to metal. Always match the color of your belt with your shoes and the colorof your belt buckle with your watch.

Wear jewelry sparingly for your interviews. In some settings, it may detract from your professional appearance. Limit yourself to one ring perhand, and leave visible piercings at home.

Socks should match in color to your suit. Black with black, gray with gray, tan with tan. Black socks are acceptable for dark colored suits,though a closer match is more desirable.

Be sure your shoes are shined, that the edging is not fading (a magic marker can sometimes work wonders,) and that laces are not broken orfrayed.

For those of you who need a quick review of the basics, follow these guidelines for successful interview dress:

Men and Women

Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or grey is best) Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)

Clean, polished conservative shoes

Well-groomed hairstyle

Clean, trimmed fingernails Minimal cologne or perfume Empty pockets--no bulges or tinkling coins

No gum, candy or cigarettes

Light briefcase or portfolio case No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.)
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Men

Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)

Dark socks (black is best)

Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews

No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!) Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat & trimmed No rings other than wedding ring or college ring

No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)Women

Always wear a suit with a jacket; no dresses Shoes with conservative heels

Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)

No purses, small or large; carry a briefcase instead

If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color Minimal use of makeup (it should not be too noticeable) No more than one ring on each hand One set of earrings only

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