WHAT NOT TO DO IN THE JOB INTERVIEW

Looking for a job can feel like a full-time job itself. You might spend hours trying to find the right position. Once you do, there’s the application process—submitting your resume, filling out forms, and sometimes even taking a qualification test just to be considered.

If you’re selected as a potential candidate, you’ll get an email or a call inviting you in for an interview. At this point, you might leave the interview with confidence only to leave the interview thinking you nailed it, but never getting that job offer.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The reason you didn’t get hired may not have been your qualifications—but rather what you did (or didn’t do) during the interview. To make sure you don’t make the same mistakes again. So here is What not to do in the job interview.

1. Do Not Be Late

Punctuality is non-negotiable! Arriving on time shows professionalism, responsibility, and respect for the employer’s time.

Best Practices:
✔ In-person interview? Aim to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early. This gives you time to check in, fill out any paperwork, and mentally prepare yourself.
✔ Work-from-home interview? Log in at least 10 minutes early to test your computer, headset, webcam, and internet connection. You don’t want to fumble with tech issues right as the interview starts—it makes you look unprepared.

Running late happens—but don’t let it happen to you. Plan, know your route and test your tech.

2. Do Not Avoid Eye Contact

Eye contact matters more than you think. It’s a key way to show confidence, engagement, and trustworthiness.

• In-person interview? Make direct but natural eye contact from start to finish. Avoiding eye contact can make you seem disinterested or even dishonest.
• Video interview? Look directly at the webcam, not your screen. This creates the same effect as in-person eye contact and makes you look focused and professional.

Even if you’re nervous, try to maintain steady eye contact. It shows you’re present, confident, and genuinely interested in the job.

3. Do Not Over-Talk the Interviewer

Getting comfortable with the interviewer is great but taking over the conversation? Not so much.

Answer questions concisely and clearly while letting the interviewer lead the discussion. Talking too much or worse, interrupting can make you seem overbearing or unprofessional.

What to Do Instead:

• Stick to answering the questions directly.

• If you’re unsure about your response, simply ask, “Did I answer that clearly for you?”

• Save any additional personal details for the end of the interview when they ask if you have anything else to add.

Remember, a great interview feels like a conversation, not a monologue.

4. Do Not Speak Poorly About Your Former Employer

This is a huge red flag for hiring managers. No matter how bad your last job was, complaining about a former employer makes you look unprofessional.

Why? Because the hiring manager might think:
✔ Will they talk badly about us one day?
✔ Are they difficult to work with?
✔ Are they just negative in general?

Instead of focusing on what was wrong at your last job, focus on why you’re excited about this new opportunity.

Pro Tip: Before your interview, prepare a positive, professional response for why you’re leaving your current or past job. Keep it short and focus on growth and opportunity.

5. Do Not Forget to Show Gratitude

Manners go a long way in an interview. From the moment you walk in (or login), show appreciation for the opportunity.

✔ If in person, greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile.
✔ If virtual, start with a friendly but professional tone.

And don’t forget the follow-up! Send a quick thank-you note right after the interview can help set you apart from other candidates.

Best Follow-Up Methods:

• Email (fast and professional)

• LinkedIn message (if you connected)

• Text or phone call (if appropriate for the company culture)

• Old-school thank-you card (rare, but memorable)

It doesn’t have to be long just a quick note thanking them for their time and expressing your enthusiasm for the role. This final step could be the push the hiring manager needs to choose you over someone else.

In Conclusion

Acing a job interview isn’t just about what you say or how qualified you are, it’s also about how you present yourself and handle the interaction.

By avoiding these common mistakes being late, avoiding eye contact, talking too much, badmouthing past employers, and skipping the thank-you note you’ll set yourself apart as a strong, professional, and prepared candidate.

Remember: The little things make all the difference between landing the job and getting that dreaded “We’ve chosen another candidate” email.

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