How to flunk a job interview

With all the interviewing advice out there, why would anyone need any words of wisdom about how to flunk a job interview? It's easier than you know. Yet, more often than you think candidates sabotage themselves with their inattention or bad attitudes. Here are some things to watch for.

Mistake #1: Being nasty to the receptionist
Yes, the interview is stressful, and you may just want to explode. But don’t. The worst place to ventillate is front of the secretary. Your interview begins the second you cross the threshold into the company offices. Any negative impression the receptionist has of you based on any obnoxious or inappropriate remarks will quickly be conveyed. Employers know that job seekers interact with receptionists and other support staffers — often with their guards down. Beware! Employers routinely ask these employees for feedback.

Mistake #2: Saying too much
Try to avoid personal topics such as health care problems, relationship problems, drug problems or family problems.This is not the time to let it all hang out, especially, if you are trying to close an employement gap.

Mistake #3: Assuming your resume speaks for itself.
Your resume may have opened the door for the interview, but you will need to back up your words by relating what you accomplished in each role, and how it is connected to the current postion you are interviewing for. Explain any obscure acronyms, and clarify what certain job titles meant in previous employment. Don't just rattle off the facts on your resume and assume the employer will get it.


Mistake #4: Showing the interviewer how important you are.

The interviewer has taken the time to see you. Turning the off the cellphone, the BlackBerry or the I-phone is a courtesy you need to offer in return. You will certainly sabotage the interview if you think you are so important that you can't give him/her your undivided attention and have to take phone calls or send texts during the interview. Younger job candidates, especially, may not have an awareness of what a turn off being perpetually plugged in during the interview can be. Your goal is to ace the interview, not show how important you are.


Mistake #5: Harassing the recruiter.

There’s a fine line between enthusiastic persistence and desperation. Phoning the potential employer incessantly, hanging up on the person's voice mail (most places have caller ID) is unprofessional and will not get you the job.


Mistake #6: Treating social media communications casually.
People are lax in their online writing. They neglect proper spelling and punctuation. They use loose casual language. If you are using such electronic venues as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, treat all writing as professional business communication. Proofread your work before you hit “send.”