“I forgot my pants!” 7 things NOT to do at a job interview + #1 must-do tip to get the job.

Over the years, I must have been in hundreds of interview situations both as a candidate and as an employer. Here are my top 7 “real-life examples” of what NOT to do in an interview – and #1 must-do tip to get the job.

  • 1. Slump back in the chair and keep looking at your watch.

Problem: The candidate looked like they didn’t want to be there.

Solution: The interview sped up to the rejection-stage, so they didn’t have to be.

  • 2. If asked, “why do you want this job?” try to avoid saying, “It’s close to my house.”

Problem: The candidate did not appear committed to (or even interested in) the role.

Solution: Help them get back to their house asap – at least it was close!

  • 3. Be overtly cocky.

Problem: Instant question marks around whether the person could be line-managed or work in a team.

Solution: Let them fly solo – out the door.

  • 4. Turn up to a formal setting wearing a ‘not-so-long’ top – without trousers!

Problem: Candidate doesn’t seem to understand work-based behaviours.

Solution: Reject and give feedback on matching attire to the type of company / role.

  • 5. Asked if you’d accept the job, avoid saying, “Yes, if I don’t get the other job I applied for.”

Problem: Openly stating that this job is a “runner up prize” doesn’t convey passion for this company.

Solution: Don’t offer the candidate the job, so they are not having to choose.

  • 6. Try to negotiate the job into something it’s not even remotely advertised as being.

Problem: Unreasonable negotiations just conveys the role is the “wrong fit” for you.

Solution: The company disregards you as a serious candidate and finds the “right fit”.

  • 7. Say you hate doing something that’s a key element of the job:

“No, I don’t like kids!” said the candidate – applying to work in a school!?

What not to do at an interview

So, these are some things to avoid if you don’t want to be rejected before you hit question 3.

But what is the #1 important thing you should do at a job interview?

The #1 must-do tip to get the job.

Convince the company that you have the skills and desire to work there…

RESEARCH ahead of time – know what the company ethos is, what it strives to achieve and how you can contribute to their vision.

Then in a friendly and professional manner, sell yourself by just being YOU.

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I first worked with Will whilst I was a junior member of a teaching team. I worked closely with him for around three years and he became a true mentor to me. During this time Will helped encourage me to discover my own leadership style and he mapped out what it takes to be successful. I highly recommend Will for life and career coaching.

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