With high volumes of applicants for most jobs advertised it is a huge achievement to stand o...
By Meridian Business Support
We asked Meridianâs team of recruitment consultants what were the most common interview mistakes.
You put yourself at a disadvantage before the interview begins if you fail to prepare in advance. With 66% of recruitment consultants listing lack of research as the most common interview mistake made, itâs clear that you cannot get away with merely having a quick look at a companyâs website.
Over-looking why you would want to work for a company you know nothing about, lack of research suggests to the interviewer that you are not truly serious about working for their company. Reading the companyâs website, industry publications, and using your professional network are all ways you can learn more about a companyâs priorities, position, and competitors. This information will help you demonstrate how your skills and experience will benefit the company and their future plans.
An incredible 43% of recruitment consultants listed the use of bad language as a common interview mistake. Even if your interviewer is prolific with the profanities remain professional at all times.
While not making eye contact or having a weak handshake may be no more than a touch of interview nerves, it can also imply a lack of confidence and can even be seen as a sign of dishonesty. Other negative signals most of us are guilty of at some point include slouching, crossing our arms across our chest, and swinging our legs.
âI once had a candidate turn up wearing a crocodile onesie, having come to the interview straight from a stag do!â says Onsite Staffing Manager, Charlotte Edwards. Wearing inappropriate clothing is clearly a trend with 34% of Meridianâs consultants listing it as a common interview mistake.
While a three-piece suit may be not suitable for every company you interview for, it is important to dress smartly and appropriately for every interview. Remember, first impressions count, so make sure youâre dressed snappy (get-it!?).
Some things are out of our control, but traffic jams and delayed public transport should always be planned for, as walking into an interview late, even with a valid excuse will test your interviewerâs patience. Plan your route and if possible make the journey beforehand, aiming to arrive at least 30 minutes before your interview starts.
For more advice on preparing for your interview, visit our careers toolkit .