Shine in Your Next Interview: What to Focus On

Approaching interviews often stirs up a mix of excitement and nerves.  The opportunity to showcase your skills and qualifications can be exhilarating, yet the pressure to make a positive impression can also be daunting. Candidates often leave interviews with a sense of how they performed, yet sometimes, despite repeated attempts, they don’t progress past the interview stage.

If you’re consistently invited to interviews, it’s clear that your resume reflects the desired skills and experience. So, what’s preventing you from landing the job?

Eva Chan’s article The 4 Interview Red Flags Hiring Managers Say Concern Them Most, outlines four red flags that could be holding you back:

1. Dishonesty
2. Rude Language or Behaviour
3. Criticising Past Employers or Coworkers
4. Lack of Preparation.

To help you prepare effectively, we’ve created a brief guide to avoid these common interview red flags.

What not to do: Dishonesty

One of the top priorities when going into an interview is to be transparent about your experience, skills and personality. Setting realistic expectations about your abilities is crucial, as exaggerations can unravel during reference conversations or background checks. It’s far better to be upfront about any gaps in your experience while emphasising your eagerness to learn and grow. This honesty not only builds trust but also shows hiring managers that you are a genuine, reliable candidate.

Your openness should also extend to your online presence. While many people aim to separate their professional and personal lives on social media, organisations often conduct online searches as part of the recruitment process. If something you’ve said in an interview or listed on your resume conflicts with your online activity, it could raise red flags and become a reason not to hire you.

For tips on managing your online presence and professional brand, check out our article on Promoting your professional brand using LinkedIn

What not to do: Rude Language or Behaviour

Using disrespectful language or displaying unprofessional behaviour can leave a lasting negative impression.  It’s crucial to maintain courtesy and professionalism throughout the interview process. Avoid interrupting, using slang or inappropriate language, and ensure punctuality. By showing respect, attentiveness, and a positive attitude, you not only demonstrate your qualifications but also your ability to contribute positively to the company’s culture. Remember, interviews are an opportunity to demonstrate both your expertise and your ability to engage respectfully and professionally.

What not to do: Criticising Past Employers or Coworkers

Speaking negatively about previous employers or coworkers during an interview can raise serious concerns for potential employers, as it may suggest a lack of teamwork or resilience. Instead, focus on presenting your experiences in a positive light, emphasising what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown from challenges. This approach highlights your professionalism, resilience, and constructive attitude—qualities that are highly valued in any workplace. By maintaining a positive perspective, you also reassure interviewers of your ability to handle future workplace situations with maturity and adaptability.

What not to do: Lack of Preparation

Thorough preparation is the foundation of any successful interview. Start by researching the company—its mission, values, and recent achievements—to tailor your responses effectively. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate curiosity and insight into the organisation’s work.

In addition to researching the company, practice answering common interview questions to ensure you communicate your skills and experiences confidently. Preparation not only sets you apart but also reduces anxiety, helping you present as a capable, enthusiastic candidate ready to take on the role’s challenges.

Equally important is preparing your mindset. Approach the interview with confidence, positivity, and a clear focus on your strengths. By doing so, you bridge the gap between potential and performance, delivering a compelling and memorable interview.

This blog post is adapted from Eva Chan’s article The 4 Interview Red Flags Hiring Managers Say Concern Them Most. https://hbr.org/2024/10/the-4-interview-red-flags-hiring-managers-say-concern-them-most