1.     Dressing inappropriately

Know the culture of the company. Don’t dress in business casual if many of the current employees wear more conservative clothing – you want to look like you already fit into the agency.

 

2.    Appearances that are loud, bright excessive or extreme

Resist the temptation to wear perfume, bright colors, or loud nail polish and cover up tattoos.  You want the interviewer to focus on your skills and accomplishments, not your appearances.

 

3.    Being late to the interview

This mistake pretty much speaks for itself.  Tardiness leaves a bad taste in any prospective e

mployer’s mouth.  If you can’t be on time for the interview, how dependable could you be as an employee?  Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled interview time.

 

4.    Not asking questions

Do not sit like a bump on a log during your interview.  Show interest in the company by asking the employer what his/her biggest challenges are; what the average work day for this position is like; or what the next steps are following the interview.

 

5.    Asking about salary and benefits

The appropriate time to discuss issues of compensation is when a firm offer is on the table.  Don’t bring up the topic prematurely.  Take the time to learn about the company and position first.

 

6.    Lack of resume or CV copies

Don’t assume that the employer already has a copy of your resume.  Many employers now conduct group interviews so you should always bring extra copies of your resume to pass around.  This will demonstrate that you have foresight and consideration.

 

7.    Being unprepared for questions

Avoid going blank during the interview by preparing your answers in advance to some of the most common interview questions.  This will help you appear poised and confident.

8.    Dishonesty

Never, ever lie to an employer to get the position.  You undermine your own strengths and abilities and the trust of the interviewer.  If you can’t get the position based on current and potentials skills and accomplishments, then you probably shouldn’t be applying for that particular position.

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