When it comes to making a job application, the many stages of the recruitment process can prove tiresome for a lot of candidates. But for those who make it to the final interview stages, it can be especially frustrating if they are not then offered the position in question.
Despite having the best intentions – and perhaps even qualifications – many candidates will wind up with nothing but friendly advice and no tangible job leads. So what are the reasons for this? Why are some people so successful in interviews, whereas others aren’t? A recent article on Forbes suggests some reasons why interviews don’t always lead to job offers – take a look and see if you agree.
The ‘Rebound’
When looking for a career change, it can be easy to fall into the habit of bad-mouthing your previous job – sometimes even the employer themselves. Whilst your interviewer may want to know your reasons for leaving your old job, you shouldn’t make them feel as if they are the ‘rebound’ option; that is, the job you jump into to recover from your old one.
Instead, speak positively about your old career and describe what you have learned from it. Say that you are pro-actively looking for something else, and explain that this opportunity – which you have a genuine interest in – would be the ideal alternative.
Promising to Learn
If a candidate is lacking in certain skills that the job requires, they often promise that they will pick it up quickly – but this calls for the employer to take a leap of faith that this will be delivered.
It’s more advisable for applicants to come to the interview with an existing strategy that relates to the job in question. This will show that they understand and can handle the job, and demonstrates existing knowledge rather than simply a blind promise to learn.
Mistranslating Your Experience
Contrary to promising to learn, is giving the impression that you think you know too much. Just because you have experience in a particular field or industry, this won’t necessarily translate into the particular role that you are applying for.
By not showing awareness of how much you still need to learn and develop, candidates risk coming across as naïve – or worse, arrogant. By all means show off your expertise, but don’t make sweeping statements or claims about knowing more than you do.
Not Allowing for Culture
Different companies and industries will have their own values and cultures; whether that’s how they dress, how they communicate or how they conduct meetings. For example, marketing and media professions tend not to be as corporate as those in banking or finance.
When you attend an interview, make sure that you have considered the culture of the company and how you can fit into or adapt to it. These ‘soft skills’ will be assessed by your interviewer just as much as your professional qualifications.
What other factors do you think can dictate the success of an interview?
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