There are several reasons why you might not get hired for a job. In today's competitive job market, another job applicant can easily outshine you on an interview. If you’ve been out of work for several weeks or months, you're probably eager to find new employment. Understanding the reasons why you might not get hired can help you improve your interview skills and “wow” the interviewer.
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1. Not Qualified
Exaggerating your experience and skills is a surefire way to make a bad first impression. You might mistakenly list false information on your application to get your foot in the door. However, your inexperience will show in the interview. Reasons why you might not get hired include having insufficient skills and experience for a particular position. Be honest on your job application to avoid wasting your time and the employer's time.
2. No Enthusiasm
If you don't smile, speak in a monotone voice or appear distracted on the interview, the employer may choose another applicant. Not to suggest that you should be super excited, but it helps to show a reasonable amount of enthusiasm when you meet with the employer. You might smile, shake his hand and build a rapport. This shows that you are eager to get started with the company.
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3. Badmouthing a past Employer
Regardless of how evil and nasty your previous employer may have been toward you, don't mention this on the interview. If the interviewer inquires as to why you left your previous job, choose your words carefully and mention your previous employer in a positive light. This shows your maturity and professionalism, which is a quality that most employers seek.
4. Arriving Late
If your interview is scheduled for 9:30 in the morning, don't waltz into the interview at 10:00. This is a top way to tick off the employer. This indicates an inability to be punctual, plus it makes a bad first impression. To avoid any delays on the road, leave your house early and aim to arrive at the interview location at least 10 to 15 minutes early.
5. Bad Personal Appearance
Dress professional for your interview. Arriving in jeans, tennis shoes, revealing clothes or dirty clothes will turn off the employer. The employer may conclude that you're not taking the interview seriously. Wear business attire, remove body piercings and cover any tattoos.
6. Poor Communication Skills
The employer will ask several questions to assess how well you communicate. If you cannot utter a simple coherent sentence, or if you frequently use slang words, the employer may pass on the opportunity to hire you. Even if the interview is relaxed, be professional. Use proper English at all times.
7. Not Preparing for the Interview
Employers typically ask the same interview questions. With this said, you can research common interview questions online. Prepare for your interview and think of good responses to frequently asked questions. Additionally, learn as much as you can about the company. If you don't know the company's history or background, the interviewer may choose a more knowledgeable applicant.
Employers receive piles of job applications, and it can take months to receive a single call back. The more you prepare for the hiring process, the greater your chances of getting hired. What steps do you take to improve your odds of finding a job?
Comments
Mike: More importantly "knowing something about the company" is key. Understand their line of business, clients, and for goodness sake do a little research starting with their mission statement. Who are they? Where are they going? Who is their target audience and business line? As a hiring manager nothing has closed the deal faster than asking a perspective hire what assets they bring to the company to only receive a canned response such as "I'm a team player", or "because I am up for a challenge". As nice as this may sound it is an empty response that bears little fruit for what you can do for the company. This is a response I expect from a recent college grad or entry level hire, but never a "seasoned" job seeker. And if the company is "public" take 30 minutes to look up their 10k filings and get to know a little about their financials.
Rachel: Thanks for this article considering ill need to get a job soon ;)
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