Arriving Late
Being late for an interview not only demonstrates a lack of respect for the potential employer, it also leaves the impression that you will be late as an employee. Plan extra time and allow for unexpected circumstances such as traffic, weather or a hard to find location. It is better to arrive early than late, but not too early. If you arrive more than 15 minutes early, take the time to read the job announcement, your resume, or practice answering common interview questions. Then present yourself about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled interview time.
Inappropriate Appearance
Your appearance reveals to the potential employer a great deal about how you may represent the company as an employee. When considering appearance, it is important to consider more than just the way you dress. You should also consider the appearance of your career documents-resume, reference sheet, cover letter, and any other document prepared to present to the employer. Be prepared with several copies of each document and ensure each document is professional in appearance. The general rule for dress is to dress one step above what you think you need to in order to work for the company. When in doubt, consider driving to the location beforehand to observe the appearance standards. It's better to be conservative than extreme. Avoid any extremes in clothing, accessories and grooming; including anything distracting or revealing.
Inappropriate Body Language
Body language accounts for more than half of meaning during an interview. Don't slouch or lean back in your chair. Instead lean slightly forward to demonstrate interest in and attentiveness to the conversation. Maintain proper eye contact. Avoid staring blankly or making the person uncomfortable with too much eye contact. Be aware of your nervous tics and habits. If you know you click pens, tap your fingers or twirl your hair, be conscious of these things and practice controlling them. Lastly, shake hands firmly. A handshake too firm or too weak can send a negative message.
Overlooking Your Marketing Message
Many interviews start with the request "Tell me a little about yourself." This isn't the time to tell your personal life story. Instead, this is a tremendous opportunity to market and sell yourself as the best candidate for the position. Come prepared with a 30-60 second message that includes relevant skills, qualifications and experience related to the position you are applying for. You should practice this marketing message until you can repeat it naturally.
Talking on Your Mobile Phone
Even if it is only in the room you are waiting in, talking on your phone during a job interview is inconsiderate and unprofessional. Often employers assign the receptionist to watch your behavior while waiting for the interview. You need to make a positive impression throughout the interview process, which starts when you arrive on the property. Turn your phone off or leave it in the car. Most calls can wait until after the interview concludes. If you are expecting an emergency call that simply can't wait, explain this to the person you are interviewing with.
Chew Gum, Eat or Drink
Chewing gum can be very distracting, especially if you chew noisily. Having fresh breath is important, but make sure your gum is thrown away before you enter the building. Bringing food or drink to an interview shows a lack of respect for the potential employer and the facility. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages if you are invited to a lunch interview. You need to remain sharp and attentive during the entire interview.
Not Having Appropriate Questions Prepared to Ask The Employer
Most interviews will end with something like "Do you have any questions for me?" If you want the job, you will respond with more than "no". Two of the worst questions you can ask are "When do you plan to fill the position?" and "What benefits does the position include?" Instead, ask questions such as "How did this position become available?", "Would you please describe the typical first year assignments?", or "What qualities are most important for the position?"