What shouldn’t you do at a job interview? WRS take a look at some of the most common job interview mistakes and offer advice on how to avoid them!
What should you not do in a job interview?
1. Not being fully prepared
Start your preparation a few days before your interview. Research the company by looking at their website, social channels and press releases. Get familiar with your CV and prepare for possible interview questions.
Avoiding last minute prep will help you remain as relaxed as possible the night before, allowing you to get a good night’s sleep so that you are fresh and energised for your interview, and ready to make a great impression on your interviewer.
Plan ahead, research the location of the interview and plan your route. Try to arrive no more than 10 minutes early, it suggests good time management skills, and respect for the company, the position, and even your interviewer. Turning up late to an interview gives the impression that you are not enthusiastic about the position even if you are.
Make sure you’ve eaten and are well hydrated before the interview, a trip to the toilet just before you get there will mean that you are comfortable and able to give complete focus to your interviewer.
2. Don’t bring up salary
Unless the interviewer broaches the subject, you shouldn’t discuss salary on your first stage interview. The same applies to benefits such as holidays, flexible working and company perks. Save these topics for subsequent interviews.
3. Be confident, not arrogant
According to a recent survey by CV library a staggering 84.9% of interviewers describe overconfidence and arrogance as a job interview turn-off. It’s important to be confident and to give the recruiter proof of your achievements and abilities, rather than walking into the interview like you’ve already got the job.
One of the best ways of doing this is to give your interviewer figures, stats and facts from your previous work experience, showing them unequivocal evidence that you get results and why you’re a strong applicant for the role.
4. Don’t criticise your old job
Often the interviewer will ask you why you are thinking about leaving your current role. If you say you hated your line manager or the company it may make the interviewer doubt your motivation for the position and your attitude. Avoid being critical, try saying that you want a new challenge or that you wish to be part of a bigger or smaller company, these are perfectly understandable and suitable reasons.
5. Don’t be distracted by your phone
Avoid being tempted to use your phone at the interview, leave it in your car. Or put your phone on silent and put it away in your bag. Texting, or taking a call during your interview is not only rude and disruptive, but it sends a clear message to the hiring manager that the interview is not your top priority.
Don’t be tempted to look at your phone when you’re waiting to go into your interview. Instead, pickup some company literature and read through it whilst you wait or look at any marketing material/corporate messages on the wall. This makes a far better first impression.
6. Don’t lose focus
If you feel like your attention is slipping, try to make every effort to stay engaged. If you’re feeling tired try to take in deep breaths and sip some water to re-hydrate. Remember to keep eye contact and make an active effort to listen.
Not listening could lead to you misunderstanding the question and giving a poor answer. Don’t let yourself zone out during an interview. Your potential employer will question your ability to remain focused during a day on the job.
7. Don’t ramble on
Keep your answers concise, no matter how welcoming or friendly the interviewer seems. An interview is a professional situation so don’t get side-tracked and start talking about your personal life too much.
8. Not asking any questions at the end
At the end of the interview the hiring manager will always ask if you have any questions. Surprisingly, the most common answer to this question is no. This is a missed opportunity to find out more about the company and to highlight your interest in the position and reinforces your suitability as a candidate. Ask questions related to the job, the company and the industry. Don’t ask questions that you should have covered in your research!
For more advice, take a look at our interview dos and don’ts blog.
Conclusion
A successful job interview is about more than showcasing your qualifications. It is also about demonstrating professionalism, preparation, and genuine interest in the opportunity. By avoiding common mistakes such as arriving unprepared, discussing salary too early, criticising previous employers, or failing to ask questions, you can make a positive and lasting impression. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly and engage confidently throughout the interview can significantly improve your chances of progressing to the next stage and securing the role.
Key Takeaways
- Research the company and role thoroughly before your interview.
- Arrive on time and plan your journey in advance.
- Avoid discussing salary and benefits during the initial interview unless the interviewer raises the topic.
- Demonstrate confidence through evidence and measurable achievements rather than overconfidence.
- Speak positively about previous employers and focus on career growth opportunities.
- Keep your phone switched off or on silent and out of sight during the interview.
- Stay focused, listen carefully, and answer questions clearly and concisely.
- Use structured responses, such as the STAR method, to communicate your experience effectively.
- Always prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview.
- Professionalism, preparation, and engagement can help you stand out from other candidates.
About the Author
Apurva Agrawal is an SEO Specialist at Worldwide Recruitment Solutions (WRS), with three years of experience driving digital growth and visibility within the global recruitment sector.
This guide was developed in collaboration with and verified by Melissa Walsh, Marketing and Brand Manager at WRS, ensuring that all workforce data and service methodologies reflect WRS’s global standards and positioning.
