Interviewers have limited time and resources to check all information about their applicants. This is an opportunity for most aspirants to ace their application. The interview is considered the critical part in getting your dream job. This is the part where jobseekers sell themselves to future employers. They have to prove that they are the best person for the job in a limited period of time. Most interviewers have red flags imposed during an interview. Here are some interview blunders that can be avoided:

1. Being egotistical by shifting the focus of the interview towards yourself

Remember that a job interview is always give and take. You offer them your service and they will give you a job. Both parties must meet halfway. You should prove to them that you are able to meet the company’s needs and in return, they will hire you. Being too ambitious and egocentric will leave a bad taste to the interviewers. This will make you sound inflexible, self-centered, and unwilling to compromise.

What to do

Focus on the job and the company that you are applying for. Make it clear that you are flexible and willing to do all the tasks assigned to you. Align your goals with the company and highlight it during the interview.

2. Being a know-it-all

Some job applicants who are aiming for an entry-level position have the tendency to overcompensate. This is oftentimes the mistake of fresh graduates who want to impress the company. The interviewee would claim to have all the skills listed on the job requirement even if they don’t. Your employer will then hire you and expect you to do your job perfectly. Consequently, failure in performing the task properly will disappoint them and might result in losing your job that would then leave a black mark in your professional records.

What to do

Be honest. Tell them what you can do and what you cannot. Focus on your strengths and point out the areas that need improvement and that you are willing to be trained. Make sure you highlight a specific skill that is essential to the job. Keep in mind that job roles are very specific. Some would require you to be highly skilled in a specific area, but not all areas.

3. Showing too much anxiety that affects the whole interview.

Another mistake that is often committed by new jobseekers is being more susceptible to getting anxious. Don’t be alarmed though as this is also a problem to some applicants even though they have been into a lot of interviews before. This causes the candidate to be overly excited or being low during the interview. This greatly affects on how you converse with your interviewer thus shifting the mood in a negative way. Additionally, you might be unable to control your answers and be too honest on how you feel with the new job or your past bosses and companies. Being too excited or disinterested leaves a negative impression to the interviewer.

What to do

Practice! There is no harm in attending another interview if you fail the first time. Once you have the idea on what to do during the big day, you will be more relaxed and confident. Think of happy thoughts and focus on your purpose of coming over. Meditating before the interview can also help.

4. Unable to Position Yourself Apart from the Other Applicants

Most job applicants tend to forget that there could be hundreds of other candidates interested in the same position. The interviewers might overlook you as a potential candidate.

What to do

The interview should be an opportunity to showcase your skills and capabilities that will make you the perfect person for the job. Don’t be just an ordinary applicant. Instead, pose yourself as a must-have.

5. Coming to the Interview Unprepared

Most jobseekers are guilty of this crime. This greatly affects every applicant’s level of confidence. They are either unfamiliar with the company or they don’t know why they want the job. It leaves a negative impact when the interviewer asks you if you know anything about the company and you respond with a blank stare

What to do

Be ready for the interview. Think about common interview questions and formulate your answers. Make an extensive research about the job and the company and think of ways to prove that you are suited for the post. You must also be physically prepared for this. Relax, unwind, and prepare your best suit or dress for the big day. Remember, this is a make or break situation. Your interview is your first step towards your dream job.