What Annoys Interviewers the Most?

By Glenda May
Glenda May Consulting

Research by leading recruitment company Robert Half International asked executives to identify what they thought were the most common mistakes candidates make during job interviews.

Most common with 44 per cent of respondents was "Little or no knowledge of the organization they applied to join." "A lack of preparedness to discuss career plans and goals" was second, irking 23 per cent of respondents. "Limited enthusiasm" was listed by 16 per cent as a reason for eliminating prospects from the running.

So what can you to do improve your chance of a successful interview?

• Research the organization. Visit the website, read the mission statements and goals, read up on the past financial history. Peruse their advertisements (if applicable) to assess how the company is marketing themselves.

• Prepare some questions to ask at interview. This is your opportunity to stand out. These questions should demonstrate your research and show you are keen and interested.

• Once at the interview, listen carefully to the interviewer and pay attention while trying to avoid thinking about what you will say next. Maintain eye-contact, use non-verbal cues, such as nodding to show interest in what the interviewer is saying. Ask for clarification when anything is unclear, and paraphrase when you understand what was said.

• Keep your answers brief, focused and concise. Your task is to demonstrate that you have the skills and attributes the job requires.

• Finally don‚t be afraid to ask for what you want; if you like the sound of the job but the salary or benefits don't fit your needs, find out if they are negotiable. Be
prepared to ask for more holidays or other benefits such as flexible hours.

Glenda May is a corporate trainer, career coach and organizational psychologist. She is the Director of Management Mentors, a business arm of Glenda May Consulting Pty Ltd, Australia

You can email Glenda