7 Fatal Job Interview Mistakes That Make Employers Cringe
Understanding what makes hiring managers cringe could mean the difference between an offer and rejection.
JB
by Joanna Byerley
Arriving Late: The Ultimate Deal-Breaker
1
The Problem
53% of hiring managers identify tardiness as a significant deal-breaker. 35.8% of recruiters consider it the biggest "ick" in interviews.
2
The Solution
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early. If emergencies happen, call ahead and explain briefly. Offer to reschedule if necessary.
Being Visibly Unprepared
The Problem
Walking into an interview without researching the company ranks as the third most serious offense. Over 30% of interviewers identify this as an immediate red flag.
Expert Insight
"One of the biggest red flags is when candidates show up without a CV." - Catherine Pylant, Senior Corporate Recruiter at Wal-Mart
The Solution
Research thoroughly. Prepare specific examples. Bring multiple CV copies. Develop thoughtful questions. Practice your responses.
Appearing Disengaged
Show Enthusiasm
"The single greatest thing a candidate can bring is enthusiasm." - Lindsay Mustain, former Amazon recruiter.
Body Language
Maintain engaged posture and appropriate eye contact throughout the interview.
Phone Etiquette
Keep your phone out of sight to avoid appearing distracted or disinterested.
Lying About Experience
1
The Problem
Embellishing accomplishments, exaggerating skills, or fabricating experience inevitably unravels during the process.
2
The Risk
"If candidates give me something inauthentic, they lose credibility and my trust."
3
The Solution
Focus on honestly presenting transferable skills and genuine achievements. Frame skill gaps as growth opportunities.
Neglecting Professional Appearance
1
1
Poor Hygiene
Ranked as the fifth most serious interview mistake by TopResume.
2
2
Inappropriate Dress
Ranked sixth most serious mistake. Suggests misalignment with company culture.
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3
The Solution
Ask about dress code when in doubt. Avoid excessively loud, trendy, casual, or wrinkled clothing.
Negative Nonverbal Cues
1
Eye Contact
Avoiding eye contact signals dishonesty or lack of confidence.
2
Body Language
Closed-off posture suggests discomfort or disinterest in the conversation.
3
Verbal Fillers
Overusing "umm," "err," "like," and "literally" distracts from your message.
Asking Inappropriate Questions (or None!)
The Problem
Not asking questions appears disinterested. Questions focused solely on benefits too early are problematic.
Better Approach
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate research and genuine interest in the role.
Balance
Ask about company goals and team dynamics. Balance inquiries about benefits with how you can contribute.
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