Avoid Potential Job Interview Disasters

There are definitely things that you can do to avoid minor mishaps which could ultimately blow an interview. Become familiar with these 7 potential interview disasters so you can prevent them from obstructing your path to that ideal job.

1. DON'T ARRIVE LATE

Showing up late is both rude and inconsiderate. Is this the first impression that you want to leave with a potential employer? Map out your route and try it out before the interview. Plan on being at least half an hour early to your appointment. This will provide a buffer to protect against wrong turns, traffic jams and all the other mishaps that may befall you. If you arrive early, you can use the time to calm your nerves.

2. DON'T SAY THE WRONG NAME

Many a nervous candidate has been known to accidentally call the interviewer the wrong name. In order to avoid this disconcerting faux pau, find out who you will be speaking to before the interview. Memorize the name(s). If this information is not available prior to the meeting, then write the person's name on your notepad as soon as you sit down for the interview. If you do slip-up, do not make a huge fuss. Apologize quickly (and sincerely) and move on.

3. DON'T SAY THE WRONG THING

Choose your words carefully. Avoid impulsive answers; the first thing that pops into your head may not be the best response. Remember, it's ok to pause if you need some time to think. Feel free to say "that's a good question; let me take a moment to think about it." This demonstrates that you think before you speak. Is your everyday speech peppered with expletives or other potentially offensive phrases? If so, take care to avoid these during your meeting.

4. DON'T BECOME SPEECHLESS

Interviews are stressful situations for even the most qualified candidates. This tension can lead to candidates "freezing up" during the meeting. Alleviate some of the expected stress by practicing mock interview questions. Have a friend conduct simulated interviews. If possible, have him/her conduct the interview in a variety of manners including reserved, rushed, and disinterested. This way you will be better prepared for whatever the interview may bring.

5. MONITOR YOUR INTERNAL SYSTEM

Nature has a funny way of acting up at the wrong moments. Fortunately, you can help prevent these unwanted incidents. Avoid the awkwardness of a growling stomach by eating a few hours before the interview. Be careful in what you eat and drink in the 24 hours prior to the interview. Do not overindulge; an upset stomach or hangover is formidable distraction.

6. DON'T BE TOO MODEST

The interview is no place for humbleness. Too much modesty can make you appear introverted or lacking confidence. Don't be afraid to be your own cheerleader. Prior to the interview, make a list of your accomplishments both personally and professionally; practice talking about them. Have a friend listen to your answers as you practice. This will help prevent you from crossing the line between justifiable pride and boasting.

7. DON'T LACK ENTHUSIASM

No one wants to work with a stick in the mud. With this in mind, how can you prevent from appearing lukewarm? Smile and maintain eye contact. Sit forward in your chair. Avoid speaking in a monotone. Be positive in your responses.

CONCLUSION

By preparing yourself against these potential interview disasters you are one step closer to getting the job of your dreams. Remember sometimes it really is the little things that make the difference. This article can be read online and shared with others directly at: http://www.worktree.com/new sletter/avoid-interview-disasters.html

Sincerely,
Nathan Newberger,
Managing Editor
http://www.WorkTree.com "Helping You Find More Jobs Faster"

Nathan Newberger is the job and career expert at http://www.WorkTree.com Nathan has over 10 years experience in staffing and human resources. He has worked both as a recruiter and career counselor. Mr. Newberger has been the Managing Editor at WorkTree.com for the past 5 years and his articles have helped thousands of job seekers.

---

Ask For That Raise!

For nine years Jeff worked for company G as an... Read More

Why Do You Want This Job?

Why Do You Want This Job? Is it because any... Read More

Make Your Resume Keyword Rich and Scanner Friendly

If you haven't looked for a job recently, there are... Read More

How To Become a Mortgage Broker

The mortgage industry accounted for $1,815,949,279,000 in loan transactions in... Read More

Why Do Interviews Die: That Sinking Feeling and How to Prevent it!

Interviews die because a mistake occurred. Sometimes, you've made a... Read More

3 Cover Letter Secrets Revealed

Writing a cover letter can be like cleaning your garage... Read More

Invest in Your Career Change--Put Your Money Where Your Dream Is

You say you want a new career, you say you... Read More

You?re Ready for a Career Change - Is Your Resume?

You finally did it. You made the decision to leave... Read More

How To REALLY Look For A Job

Are you looking for a job -- really looking? Or... Read More

Your Self-Image in the Workplace

When communication breaks down in your office or factory and... Read More

How to Use Flow In The Job Search

What is "flow"? Flow as described by the psychology professor... Read More

How to Make Your Career Change Easier

Despite what your grandmother told you, life is not supposed... Read More

Conduct An Informational Interview

Informational interviews are designed to get as much information as... Read More

How Much Can You Earn Working As A Proofreader?

Thinking of a career as a proofreader? Then you will... Read More

How You Can Find Freelance Writing Employment

How can you find writing jobs? Do you have proven... Read More

Finally Revealed: The Top 7 Resume Killers?

During my job search I read dozens of books and... Read More

Closing the Gap on Your Career Goals

If you still picture a steady progression up the ladder... Read More

Three Tips for Successful Networking

I generally shy away from using the word "networking" when... Read More

Get Beyond Your Tasks

Ever hear the story of the two masons working side... Read More

How to Improve Your Work Situation

buWhy are so many people unhappy in their work situation?... Read More

The 10 Second Window of Opportunity, Resume Hour Glass

Do you know that a hiring manager just spends 10... Read More

Youre Bright And Talented -- TooT Your Own Horn --

Obviously, there are RIGHT ways to move UP the ladder.... Read More

The Last Minute Interview

Your breath catches in your throat - at last, an... Read More

Searching for an IT Job

Looking for an IT job is one of the easiest... Read More

Job Hunting Tips: Assessing Personal Value

A week out of work is a vacation. You can... Read More

Telecommuting Interview Tips

Telecommuting Interview Tips- By Nell TaliercioYou've made it! Your cover... Read More

Dissatisfied With Your Job? Stop Putting Your Attention on What You Dont Want!

If I were to ask you the percentage of time... Read More

Ten Things To Do When You Really, Really Hate Your Job

1. Begin focusing on what you want instead of how... Read More

How to Make Money as a Reflexologist

Being a reflexologist is one of the top five career... Read More

Fear of Being Outsourced? Fight Back

Me, outsourced? Impossible. How could they replace a business-humor columnist?... Read More

Powerful Phone Interviews

Phone interviews are de rigueur with many organizations.Companies conduct phone... Read More

Recovering From a Career Crisis

If you have ever experienced any of the following, you... Read More

Online Business: The Underground Railroad for Corporate Escapees

Millions of people everyday spend eight hours or more in... Read More