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You’re super qualified, but for some reason, nobody’s hiring you! If a qualified candidate keeps getting rejected, they could have bombed the interview. But if you’re not sure where you went wrong, then you might be making some very subtle mistakes. Check out ENTITY’s list of unique job interview mistakes to avoid.
Sometimes, you didn’t make a mistake. The competition was simply better.
In ENTITY Academy’s 2018 summer program, Rick Schwartz from Los Angeles Downtown News gave a presentation on job interviews. All his information was extremely valuable, but to me, his most important advice involved standing out.
He emphasized separating ourselves from other applicants by putting our resume in a press folder or ring binder. This folder will stand out in a pile of resumes, which could push you ahead of the competition.
Throughout the rest of the interview, do what you can to set yourself apart from the other candidates. Without insulting anyone else, explain why you’re the best choice. In both words and actions.
Schwartz also emphasized avoiding slang or “web speak” in job interviews. This is especially true with large corporations, serious work environments or older interviewers.
However, if you’re applying for a company with a laid-back style or younger staff, you might want to match their tone. This shows that you’re a good fit.
Always start with professional language. But as the interview continues, evaluate your environment. If the work culture seems casual and your recruiter uses a relaxed vocabulary, you can adjust your words as necessary.
Whether you aced your answers or not, you should always follow up with the interviewer. The Cut recommends sending thank you emails one to two days after the meeting. They also mention that the ideal note “builds on the conversation you had in the interview.” It should feel genuine while also mentioning future goals and professional prospects.
In general, one note probably won’t make or break your chances. In certain situations, however, it could be the difference between you and the next candidate.
And whether you get the job or not, it’s always good to show some gratitude. I like to write personalized thank you notes and send them via snail mail; even if it doesn’t get to the interviewer before they make their decision, it cements a reputation for any future available positions.
Also, it’s simply a nice gesture. Be thankful for others’ time and energy!
If you’re nailing your interviews, your resume is sparkling and you’ve avoided all the mistakes listed, perhaps you’re overqualified for the job you want. If you’ve worked a job with more seniority or experience that the position you’re applying for, you’re overqualified. The recruiter might be worried that you’ll be bored, upset with the pay, looking to take their job or ready to leave the company when something better comes along.
If this is the case, but you want the job, you can address those concerns by explaining what you stand to gain from the position. Try to assure them that you will stay loyal to the company. And if you’re still rejected, ask your interviewer for feedback or advice. They could direct you towards positions that are more on your level.
In this list of job interview mistakes to avoid, most of the mistakes involve competition. The best way to ensure success is emphasizing what makes you different.
So keep trying! Persistence is key. As annoying as it sounds, every failure is a learning opportunity. If you keep asking for feedback, growing and developing, you’ll find success.
And that’s no mistake.
