Ten Job Interview Deal Killers
Showing Up Late
If you’re not early for a job interview, you’re late, right? Even arriving just a couple minutes past the designated time raises a big red flag about punctuality.
Not Bringing Requested Materials
If you asked for references and the interviewee comes up empty, for example, then you have to wonder about credibility.
Complaining About a Past (or Current) Employer
It’s fine to discuss work-based challenges, to demonstrate how they were addressed and overcome. But badmouthing a past or current employer is a sign of a bad attitude.
Arriving Unprepared
Find out how much an interviewee knows about your company–such as its core businesses, competitors and overall mission. If you get a blank stare, it could speak to apathy or a lack of initiative.
Pulling Out a Phone
If candidates can’t pay undivided attention to the interview while it’s happening, what makes you think they’ll focus on IT projects when on the job?
Emphasizing Job Titles Held–Not Accomplishments
Potential recruits should be able to describe what they contributed of actual value within a role, and address how they solved problems.
Not Asking Questions
If candidates literally have no questions about working for your IT department, it’s safe to conclude that they’re simply looking to land a job–any job–as opposed to building a career.
Dressing too Casually
Even if T-shirts and jeans are the norm for your IT department, a prospect should dress in business-appropriate attire.
Asking About Salary Right Away
You want employees who are driven by the value of the work itself, not money.
Not Following Up
Did you get a personalized thank you email after the interview? If not, you’ll want to avoid bringing on a thoughtless, over-entitled hire.
