1. Arriving late (or logging in late)
Lateness signals unreliability before you say a word. Plan your route and aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. For a video interview, test your link, camera and sound the day before and log in five minutes early.
2. Not researching the company
"Why do you want to work here?" catches out unprepared candidates. Spend 20 minutes on the company website and recent news so you can speak specifically about them.
3. Rambling or memorising answers
Long, unfocused answers lose the interviewer. Prepare structured responses using the STAR method for behavioural questions, and keep answers to about two minutes.
4. Badmouthing a previous employer
Even if you left on bad terms, speak neutrally. Complaining about a past boss makes interviewers wonder how you will talk about them one day.
5. Weak body language
- Offer a firm handshake and make eye contact.
- Sit up, avoid crossing your arms, and do not fidget with your phone.
- Smile and show genuine interest.
6. Dressing wrong for the role
Dress one level above the everyday dress code of the job. Neat, clean and professional always beats casual. When in doubt, go more formal.
7. Having no questions to ask
When they ask "Do you have any questions?", always say yes. Prepare two, such as "What does success look like in the first six months?" It shows real interest.
8. Lying or exaggerating
Never inflate your experience or qualifications. Verification and reference checks are standard, and dishonesty ends applications and careers.
9. Forgetting to follow up
A short thank-you email within 24 hours keeps you front of mind and shows professionalism. Reaffirm your interest and mention one thing you enjoyed discussing.
Put it into practice
Avoid these mistakes and you will already be ahead of most candidates. When you are ready, browse current openings and apply directly to employers.