3 Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make and How to Avoid Them

I’ve sat through 30 job interviews in the last month, and I kept seeing these 3 glaring issues come up. If you’re a job candidate and you’re reading this blog, the good news is, you can avoid these pitfalls altogether.  

The key is, it’s just about what you say in a job interview, but how you prepare and present yourself.  

Let’s explore how you can turn these common interview blunders into opportunities for success. 

1. Not knowing who’s in the room

It’s crucial to understand who you’re speaking with. This goes beyond just recognising job titles; it’s about understanding the decision-makers’ styles and what matters most to them. When you know who’s in the room, you can tailor your responses to resonate with each person. 

A study by the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that 60% of interviewers make their decision within the first 15 minutes of an interview. Imagine how much stronger those first impressions would be if you knew who you’re speaking to and what they’re looking for in a candidate. 

This knowledge can help you make a strong first impression and set the tone for a successful interview. 

2. Failing to rehearse their narrative  

Your story matters. Crafting a compelling narrative connects the dots between your past roles and your future potential at the company. Unfortunately, many candidates fall into the trap of providing dry, uninspiring answers that sound too rehearsed or overly formal. 

It’s not enough to simply list your skills and experiences — you need to weave them into a story that resonates with the interviewers. Think of your interview as a chance to sell yourself, with your story being your strongest selling point. 

Robert McKee, a renowned screenwriting lecturer, argues that storytelling is a more effective way to engage and persuade people than conventional rhetoric. In fact, research suggests that stories are 22 times more memorable than a list or presentation of facts. So, make sure your story isn’t just about your past, but also about how it aligns with the company’s future. 

3. Trading off skills, not values  

Many candidates focus too heavily on their skills and not enough on their values. But here’s the thing: while skills might get you in the door, it’s your values that make you a lasting fit.  

Especially for senior roles, understanding and aligning with a company’s culture and mission is crucial. The real substance of your pitch is how you align with the company’s values, not just the skills you bring to the table.  

When you lead with your values, you demonstrate not only what you can do but also who you are and why you belong at the company. It’s about showing that your personal values resonate with the company’s ethos, creating a strong foundation for a long-term relationship. 

Conclusion 

In the past month, I’ve seen candidates miss these critical points.  To truly shine in an interview, preparation is key. Know who’s in the room, rehearse your narrative, and always lead with your values as well as your skills.  

Remember, an interview isn’t just a test of what you know; it’s a showcase of who you are.

So, the next time you step into the interview room or log in to the video call, be prepared to show not just what you can do, but why you’re the perfect fit.  

You’ve got this.