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Failing The Interview

January 11, 2012

You had a big interview this morning, but you have a feeling that you didn’t perform quite as well as you had hoped. The interviewer said that he would get back to you, but the tone of his voice indicated that you aren’t really being considered anymore. Passing or failing the interview depends on interview preparation. These are some causes for failing the interview.

Top 10 reasons for failing an interview

How do you change the behavior? Remember to smile and have a positive attitude. Yes, your job interview might be a backup, but treat each employer with respect, you never know if you might need that job in the future.

Reason 1: Showing Up Late

Things happen in the course of a day. You could get into an accident, a flat tire or maybe just oversleep. However, you should at least have the decency to call ahead and say you are running late. If you don’t call and you show up late, it will hard to impress your potential employer.

How do you change the behavior? Set your alarm for at least an hour before the interview if it is in the morning, or at least pick up the phone if you are going to be late.

Reason 2: Bad Attitude

Another easy reason for failing the interview is a bad attitude. No one is going to want to hire someone who doesn’t want to be there.

How do you change the behavior? Remember to smile and have a positive attitude. Yes, each new potential job might be a backup, but treat each employer with respect, you never know if you might need that job in the future.

Reason 3: Dressing Sloppy

Appearance is everything when making your first impression. You have to dress for the job you want. This includes making sure your clothes are clean and pressed.

How do you change the behavior? Go to the store and buy professional attire. You don’t want to spend more time talking about that mustard stain than your qualifications.

Reason 4: Bad Mouthing An Old Boss

Do not ever bad mouth a previous boss, co-worker or employer. This will make you look bad in the eyes of your interviewer.

How do you change the behavior? Practicing for the interview by answering questions about old employers and learn to say that you appreciated your opportunity. It is always about learning new things when you are asked why you are leaving your old employer.

Reason 5: Lying On Your Resume

People do fudge items on their resume to get an interview because they think it will lead to employment. That might work, but if your interviewer catches on, it is the end of the road for you.

How do you change the behavior? Just be honest about your skills in the future and don’t be insecure about your qualifications.

Reason 6: Answering Your Cell Phone

If you want to end the job search right then and there, you should take that call. Unless it is an absolute emergency, just let your phone ring.

How do you change the behavior? Put your phone on silent, or don’t bring your phone at all. Taking a call is unprofessional, especially while interviewing.

Reason 7: You Smell Bad

Put on your deodorant and make sure you have clean breath. There is nothing more off-putting than body odor and will certainly be a reason for you failing the interview.

How do you change the behavior? Simply put, make sure you take a shower and put on some cologne if need be.

Reason 8: Off Color Comments

You are trying to be smooth asking about the girl in the picture frame. You assume it is a picture of the interviewer and his mom, but its really his wife. Way to take another step toward failing the interview.

How do you change the behavior? You make sure to never assume anything about people you don’t know and just keep your mouth shut.

Reason 9: Lack Of Personality

You don’t establish a rapport with the interviewer, or you don’t answer questions well. This is a good way to make sure you are not getting the job.

How do you change the behavior? Take some public speaking classes, or do mock interviews before the real thing. This will relax you and allow you to show your personality.

Reason 10: Showing Up Under The Influence

Come sober by all means. If you appear drunk, or under the influence of drugs, you can expect to be sent home quickly.

How do you change the behavior? Get counseling, or simply fight the urge to drink before the interview. If you are nervous, realize that the interviewer might be too, so you are both in the same boat.

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