Common Interview Mistakes - what human resource professionals says

Following is the summary of replies, provided by dozens of human resource professionals, from the Rozee Blog on the question of what common mistakes interviewee often make in an interview.

These common mistakes fall under eight broad categories. The two most common complaint made by HR professionals were - lack of communication skills and preparation. Communication

• Talking too much or too little, results in repetition, mumbling, and not focusing on what is being said
• Not asking right questions or worst not asking questions at all, which means they have no clue of what this job is all about. 
• Answering what is not being asked this demonstrate their lack of listening skills, one of the most important communication skill. 
• Inconsistency in responses i.e. saying things that are different to what is written on the resume.

Preparation

• Not being prepared mentally and physically for the interview, which includes not knowing about the company or the job and their own strengths and interests. This demonstrate non-seriousness, leads to unclear responses and make it difficult for the interviewee to prove that he/she be a right fit for organization. 
• Dressing and appearance is also viewed critically by human resources 

Energy

• Lack of energy, and enthusiasm for the job is identified as the main tripping point. This usually happen when an interviewee are not sure of their capabilities, knowledge and skills. Lack of preparation and self knowledge often leads to energy deficit.

Confidence

• Nervousness, hesitation, no eye contact are some of the manifestations of lack of confidence. When interviewee are not clear about their career goals and plans, and did not prepared themselves or practised for the interview, then they will automatically loose their confidence. 

Direction

• Having no clear sense of direction and purpose in life is another major obstacle in interview success. 
• Lack of proper career planning and non availability of guidance for right career is another factor, which result in the wrong assessment, by the interviewee, of themselves and the job for which they have applied. 

Attitude

• Attitude is identified as a key success or failure factor in an interview. Bad attitude shows itself when interviewee believe that they are the best in their field or a right fit, but not being able to justify it; 
• Other attitude problems shows up as having negative outlook towards life and its experiences, unrealistic salary expectations, no focus on growth, lack of flexibility and adaptability

Discipline

• Coming late without even informing and not apologizing is a common complaint by HRs. This demonstrate lack of conduct, control and organization in an interviewee. 

Using the following 3P formula will help interviewees in overcoming their mistakes in an interview:
Plan - plan your career/job goals on the basis of your interest, skills, personality and strengths, and how you are going to accomplish them

Prepare - preparation process includes getting comprehensive knowledge of industry, company, job for which you are applying.

Practice - practice your interview skills in front of webcam, friend or family member and get their feedback on all of the above interview process. This way you'll confirm that you would not get faulted on any of them.