There are plenty of tips out there on what you should do on an interview. Now let’s discuss the don’ts that could keep us away from landing that perfect job.
Badmouthing Past Employers
It should come as common sense, but there are still a surprising amount of applicants that continue to talk poorly of their former employer. Never bad mouth your past employers; you would set a bad example about yourself by doing so. The interviewer could grow uncomfortable, feeling that you would speak of their company that way. Your previous employer may also be a client or customer in which they share a good rapport with. Your best bet is to mention better times or explain how you overcame any difficult times with your former employer.
Cell Phone Usage
No matter how badly you want to check the scores for the game or if you feel that buzzing in your pocket reminding you about a text message, you should never use your cell phone during any face-to-face interview. It is better etiquette to turn it off completely before even entering the room. There are still quite a few candidates that have been rejected for continuous ringing of their cell phones, or even answering phone calls during the interview.
Being a Jabberjaw
It doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't be a fictitious anthropomorphic shark, but you should at least be aware of what you are saying when providing answers and be sure not to ramble. Always keep your answers to the point and specific to the question. Avoid talking aimlessly, but at the same time be responsive. The best way to do this is to answer their questions and provide a single example of how it (or your experience) can solve one of the company's pain points. Try not to bring up personal feelings unless you are asked.
Responding in One or Two Words
It can be difficult to juggle in between talking too much and talking too little, but silence is almost as bad of a killer as excessive talking. You should never be able to answer an interviewer's question in one or two words. Instead, make sure that you are able to deliver on the expectations you are setting. You need to be elaborate and specific with any and all responses you have.
The Big NO
Quite possibly the biggest issue in this list, never start off by saying NO. Instead, try to explain what you have done that is similar to what you've been asked, or how you think you can handle it. For example, if you are asked if you have experience in a certain programming language (such as JavaScript) you can instead mention your experience with another one (let's say Perl) and how you're willing to learn the discrepancies between both languages. Always turn it into a positive and express how you're eager to improve yourself.
