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What Not to do at a Job Interview

Written on March 29, 2011 by Sarah Ward

Job Interview Cartoon: David Farley

Certain things at job interviews can be deal breakers. Read on for a list of what not to do at a job

interview.

1. Dress like a hobo. Shocker. Career coach Jennifer Armitstead once shared a story about the

fellow who showed up wearing a red graphic tee, cargo pants, and grubby tennis shoes for an

interview he was instructed to wear a suit to. Needless to say, he didn’t land the job. Call in

advance to see what the company dress code is and dress accordingly. A safe bet for men is to

wear a collared shirt with a tie and nice pants. For ladies, nice pants or skirt and a collared shirt

or nice blouse. Remember, avoid cleavage and too-tight clothes!

2. Answer your cell phone during an interview. It’s best to leave your cell phone outside, turn

your cell phone off, or have it on silent in your pocket or purse. In a job interview, you want to

give it 100%. Don’t let yourself get distracted.

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3. Avoid eye contact. Averting your eyes can make it seem like you’re hiding something.

Maintaining eye contact 70% of the time is ideal, instilling trust and rapport and conveying

confidence.

4. Wear excessive perfume/cologne. You never know when the person you’re interviewing with

may be allergic.

5. Ask for food from the break room. This actually happened! In case you get hungry with all the

job hunting, keep a snack in your bag or car for after the interview.

6. Slam your last boss. Even if things didn’t end on a positive note, be diplomatic.

7. Chew gum. If you want fresh breath, pop an Altoid before you go inside. Chewing gum and

blowing bubbles is distracting.

8. Ask the secretary out on a date. Making a negative impression on receptionists (often known as

gatekeepers) can be damaging to your chances for the job. Besides, it’s not typically a good idea

to date people at the office!

9. Act desperate. We get it, it’s a tough job market out there and landing a job interview is rare.

But don’t make the mistake of coming off as desperate (even if you are). Practice your poker

face, play it cool, put your best foot forward, and send a thank you card after the interview.

10. Show up late. Plan to be there ten minutes early so you can compensate for construction or

detours on the way. Companies care about punctuality.

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