Preparation is a cornerstone of job hunting. If you show up underprepared for a job interview, you rarely leave a strong impression. That\u2019s why researching the company, reviewing the job description, and reflecting on your achievements is critical. But here\u2019s a question many professionals ask: is it possible to over-prepare for a job interview? <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":56259,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"
You\u2019ve scoured the Internet for job opportunities. Spent countless hours polishing your resume and cover letter. And conducted days of research before an interview to learn more about the company. But alas, you\u2019re simply not getting any call backs after the interview.<\/p>
Where are you going wrong?<\/p>
1. Answering Your Cell Phone<\/strong><\/p> Before an interview, make sure you turn your phone or tablet off. The last thing you want to do is instinctively answer it when it rings\u2026just as the hiring manager is trying to get an important point across. If you do, you will most likely wind up in the \u201cdo not hire\u201d pile.<\/p> 2. Dressing Unprofessionally <\/strong><\/p> You don\u2019t need to go out and buy a designer suit in order to look sharp during a job interview. What you do need to do is ensure your suit fits well, is in a muted or neutral color and is ironed and ready to go the morning of your interview. Nothing says \u201csloppy\u201d or \u201cunprofessional\u201d better than clothes that are too casual or ill fitting.<\/p> 3. Not Appearing Interested<\/strong><\/p> If you\u2019re really not that into the job opportunity \u2013 you\u2019re more interested in the perks and benefits \u2013 then that attitude is going to come through loud and clear to a hiring manager. It\u2019s important to show some energy and enthusiasm during the job interview. That doesn\u2019t mean you need to be bouncing off the walls, but it does mean you need to appear eager and inquisitive.<\/p> 4. Bashing a Past Boss<\/strong><\/p> You could have had the worst boss in the world in your last job. But if you bash him or her during a job interview, you\u2019re the one that\u2019s going to wind up looking bad.<\/p> So if a hiring manager asks about why you left, be as diplomatic as possible. Instead, focus on what you learned and how you grew during your time at the company.<\/p> 5. Not Getting Specific<\/strong><\/p> Sure, you can say you\u2019re the best at what you do. But what examples can you offer to back that up? Hiring managers are looking for people with a proven track record of success and positive results. And when you can offer several strong ones in your job interview \u2013 that are relevant to the position \u2013 your chances of getting hired are far greater.<\/p> Need more help polishing your interviewing skills and landing a great job in Houston? Let ResumeSpice help<\/a>.
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