What Not To Do In a Job Interview

After having the privilege of being able to sit in on some interviews I have learned that there are a few things that you really should not do. These might seem simple to some but then again if I have seen it happen before it might mean that some people just do not understand that the interview is the first and lasting impression and there for you should show your best side possible. First impressions should not be taken lightly. Here are some helpful hints of what not to do in an interview.

1. SWEAR – Swearing in an interview is just not necessary even if it is for emphasis. Try and use other words that won’t shock your interviewer. At one interview the interviewee was looking through her briefcase for some additional information and kept swearing under her breath. I am certain that she did not realize she was doing it at all and no one in the room said anything although we were all looking at each other in shock.
2. COME TO THE INTERVIEW DRUNK OR HIGH – Although you might think that this will give you an edge in the interview, it does not. The smell of alcohol on your breath or the blood shot eyes does not look good in an interview. Sure you can use mouthwash and eye drops but there are still other factors that make your actions questionable. If you want the job come to the interview sober and give it your best shot. After the interview do what you want.
3. FART – Although passing gas is a natural occurrence there is a time and place for everything. I actually sat in on an interview where the interviewee was obviously so nervous that they had no control over their bowels. The only problem was that we were in a small conference room that was warm and it did not make for a wonderful experience. I can understand an occasional slip but for it to be constant means that you either need medical assistance or you should take a trip to the restroom prior to the interview.
4. BURP – Another natural bodily function that is sometimes hard to suppress. However it is important to do what you can to suppress that function and if you cannot at least try to be discrete and excuse yourself. Things happen its how you act when they do happen that can make or break a deal. Most interviewers are understanding to a certain point so just the same you should try to be as polite and professional as possible.
5. CHEW GUM – Chewing gum is not very attractive especially when you are answering questions and trying to have a discussion. It is particularly annoying when the gum makes that smacking sound or it is being popped in the mouth. Also having the urge to blow bubbles only makes the matter worse nothing like blowing and popping a huge bubble in the middle of an interview. So spit out the gum before going to the interview to save embarrassment from doing any of these things.
6. MAKE UNUSUAL FACIAL EXPRESSIONS – Facial expressions can help you in an interview if you use the appropriate ones at the right time. However making awkward expressions can kill an interview. Screwing up your face or making the bitter beer face will not help you to land the job. Try to smile throughout the interview and stay positive; do not force the smile making it obviously fake. Be aware of the faces that you are making during the interview.
7. ASK WHAT THE COMPANY DOES – You should not have to ask what the company does, you should come to the interview prepared. Before coming to the company, research it by going online or doing other forms of research. Doing research will help you to be able to ask questions that are appropriate for the interview. Know your information and study for your interview this will get you noticed in the company.
8. BE LATE – Be on time to the interview or early if need be. Being late can be problematic especially if the interviews are being given back-to-back. Being late means you are cutting into their interviewing time. Some interviewers dock points for being late so you are already losing points before you even get started. Avoid being late and plan ahead so that you are not, even if it means taking a practice run to the building so you know how far you have to go.
9. TELL THE INTERVIEWER YOU CAN TAKE THEIR JOB – When speaking of your skills it is important to ensure the interviewer that you do have the skill set necessary. However do not try and state that you should really be going for the interviewer’s job especially if they are the ones managing the position. Whether your skills are better than the interviewers is really a moot point since you are not going for their job. Doing this will be selling yourself short instantly.
10. TELL THE INTERVIEWER HOW HOT THEY ARE – Even if the interviewer is the most beautiful woman or man it is not necessary or wise to tell them that. In fact it’s a quick way to be labeled a creep or a stalker. If you feel like giving a complement do so about their clothing or shoes. If you must please select your language carefully so that you do not come off as creepy. Although it is better to focus on the interview instead of on the interviewer.

Understanding what not to do in a job interview is just as important as knowing what to do. Be prepared and be smart in what you are doing. Be as professional as possible to show the interviewer that you are truly the right candidate for the position.