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What not to do in interviews

For those looking to move on from their current firm in 2011, new research has revealed some of the top interview blunders to avoid.Mentioning money as your sole motivation in a job interview…

user iconLawyers Weekly 30 June 2011 Careers
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For those looking to move on from their current firm in 2011, new research has revealed some of the top interview blunders to avoid.

Mentioning money as your sole motivation in a job interview may be an obvious interview gaffe, however there are a number of subtle mistakes professionals make during the application process which could mean they miss out.

In new research released this month by recruitment specialist Robert Half, a number of leading hiring managers listed the biggest mishaps they, or their colleagues, had witnessed when interviewing candidates.

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While some of the extreme interview blunders included bringing parents along to the interview, telling knock-knock jokes in response to questions and answering phone calls during the interview, more subtle mistakes were identified.

"For many, the interview process can be a stressful and nerve-wracking experience and can lead to subtle interview mistakes," explained Robert Half UK managing director Phil Sheridan. "To put your best foot forward, try to let your personality shine through as employers are looking for candidates who display excellent interpersonal skills and good judgement in addition to strong technical capabilities."

According to leading hiring managers, while authenticity is appreciated, common sense should prevail. As the research revealed, some job candidates are simply too candid, don't wear the appropriate attire or commit the ultimate interview error - they are dishonest.

According to Robert Half, the most common interview mistakes include providing long-winded responses, poor posture, disrespecting previous employers as well as throwing in the towel too early.

"While you certainly don't want to give a series of one-word responses, be careful not to ramble. Aim to be thorough, yet succinct. Don't over-answer or attempt to fill dead air in between questions," Robert Half advises.

Candidates should avoid venting their frustrations about their current or former employment during an interview. "It's important to be tactful and diplomatic. Criticising former employers only makes you look mad. Even a mildly sarcastic quip can raise red flags. When in doubt, take the high road."

And if an interview is not going too well, Robert Half warns candidates not to throw in the towel.

"Don't act dejected if you feel the interview is going poorly. If you fumble a response, maintain your composure and move on. Showing that you can swiftly recover after a setback might actually work in your favour."

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