In a time when there is economic uncertainty and record levels of unemployment, I am often amazed by the number of people who shoot themselves in the foot when it comes to applying and interviewing for positions. Being an employer, I have encountered so many different situations when interviewing people for positions. I would like to share with you some of the mistakes I have come across that would prevent me from hiring a candidate.
- You submit your references’ contact information, say it may not be updated and ask the future employer to contact the individuals to confirm the accuracy.
- You are asked for three references but only give two.
- You are selected for an interview, cancel it due to other obligations, forget the date and time of the rescheduled interview and ask for another chance.
- You begin a Skype interview and ask the interviewer to hold on while you complete a non-emergency telephone call with a relative.
- You admit that you were unaware that you lived in a different time zone from the employer – even though the interview confirmation included the time zone – and that you are not prepared for the Skype interview.
- You are asked specific interview questions and do not manage to answer any of them completely. You then ask if you answered the questions.
- You interview for a position, get the offer and then ask if you can share the work with your business partner.
- Your cell phone rings during an interview, and you answer it.
- You say you are an expert in AP style and then proceed with describing APA style.
- You apply for a virtual position and then ask to interview for the position in person.
How about you? Have you encountered similar situations? What incidents can you add to this list?
Curt Grymala says
If I didn’t know you so well, I’d swear you were making some of this stuff up. The things some people do or fail to do when looking for employment never cease to amaze me.
Another item you could have added to the list would have been:
“The job advertisement indicates that you are required to submit ___________ (transcripts, writing samples, resume, cover letter, etc.) in order to be considered for the position, but you don’t bother submitting it/them.”
Linnie Carter says
Hi, Curtiss! I’m glad you know me well! 🙂 Your addition is excellent, because too many people do not bother to follow the application instructions. And they don’t get hired!