Job interviews are often a stressful experience, yet they serve as a crucial opportunity to showcase skills and knowledge. However, making common mistakes can jeopardize even the most prepared candidate. Jacqueline Whitmore, a business etiquette expert, provided recommendations published by Business Insider to avoid frequent pitfalls that can undermine this important step in the hiring process.
1- Be cautious with social media presence In the digital age, employers often research candidates online before the interview. “They will look at all your social pages. What you eat, drink, wear, who you go out with, what your lifestyle is… they will make judgments,” warned Jacqueline. For this reason, it is essential to adjust privacy settings and clean up posts that could be detrimental. Leaving a professional impression is as important as the interview itself.
2- Virtual errors: camera and background matter In virtual interviews, refusing to turn on the camera is a poor decision. Whitmore pointed out that eye contact and facial expressions are fundamental. “Definitely, I recommend you think a little bit,” she stated. A tidy or plain wall is preferable to a space filled with distractions. Additionally, paying attention to lighting and image quality enhances professional presentation.
3- Not arriving prepared: an unforgivable mistake One of the simplest errors is attending without prior preparation. According to Whitmore, this demonstrates a lack of interest and professionalism. “Most people do not adequately research the company. We have many resources at our disposal, such as LinkedIn and social media sites,” she asserted. Researching the company, its culture, values, and even the interviewer’s profile is key. Asking specific questions about the organization can make a difference in showing genuine interest in the position.
4- The importance of a thank-you note Many candidates omit this step, yet sending a personalized message to each interviewer can make a difference. “It is important for the employer to see you more than once. Sending a written email is essential,” stated Whitmore. It is advisable to follow up within 24 hours after the interview, mentioning what you enjoyed about the conversation and how your values align with the company.
5- Inappropriate attire Details regarding appearance should not be overlooked. Whitmore explained that dressing too casually is common among job applicants. “Very rarely do we see someone well-dressed,” she said. Even when choosing formal outfits, candidates may forget small details, such as matching belts and shoes or ensuring that clothing tags are removed. These oversights can raise doubts: “Why would they want to hire someone who does not pay attention to details?” questioned the business expert.
6- Avoid inappropriate language The use of verbal tics during the conversation will be evaluated. Whitmore recommended avoiding colloquial terms, profanity, and filler words like “um” and “I like”. “You have to be careful with phrases that muddy the conversation,” she advised. Practicing responses in advance and recording oneself can help improve fluency and clarity of speech.
7- Arriving late: a major issue Punctuality is a key indicator of commitment and professionalism. Whitmore was emphatic: “Arriving late is a mistake. I have always said that even if you arrive on time, you are still late. Arriving early allows you time to prepare, find the room, and regain your composure before starting.”
