Avoiding certain behaviors and mistakes in an interview can significantly improve your chances of success

August 20, 2025

Avoiding certain behaviors and mistakes in an interview can significantly improve your chances of success. Here are key things to avoid during a job interview:

1. Being Unprepared (The Cardinal Sin)

Walking into an interview without deep preparation is the biggest mistake you can make.

The Mistake: Not researching the company, its mission, values, recent news, or the role itself. It signals a lack of genuine interest.
The Fix: Devour the company’s website, especially their “About Us” and “Blog” sections. Check their LinkedIn, recent press releases, and industry news. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your research.

2. Speaking Negatively About Previous Employers

Venting about your past boss or company is a major red flag for interviewers.

The Mistake: Bad-mouthing a previous employer comes across as unprofessional and raises concerns about your attitude and discretion.
The Fix: Frame your reasons for leaving positively. Focus on seeking new challenges, opportunities for growth, or wanting to contribute to a company like theirs. Stay diplomatic and forward-focused.

3. Appearing Disinterested or Unenthusiastic

Your energy (or lack thereof) is contagious.

The Mistake: Slouching, avoiding eye contact, giving monotone answers, or checking your phone. It tells the interviewer you don’t really want to be there.
The Fix: Sit up straight, offer a firm handshake (or a confident verbal greeting for video calls), maintain eye contact, and actively listen. Show your passion for the role and the industry.

4. Giving Vague, Rambling Answers or Not Using the STAR Method

An interview is a test of your communication skills.

The Mistake: Answering questions with simple “yes” or “no” replies or going on a long, unstructured tangent without making a point.
The Fix: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This ensures your responses are concise, relevant, and powerfully highlight your achievements.

5. Failing to Ask Insightful Questions

When an interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for us?” the wrong answer is “No.”

The Mistake: Not having any questions implies you aren’t curious or haven’t thought deeply about the role.
The Fix: Prepare 5-7 intelligent questions. Ask about team dynamics, key challenges for the first 90 days, how success is measured in the role, or the company’s future goals.

6. Being Unprofessional in Attire or Demeanor

First impressions are formed within seconds.

The Mistake: Dressing too casually, being overly familiar, or using unprofessional language (including slang).
The Fix: Always err on the side of formal. A sharp, professional outfit shows you respect the interviewer and the opportunity. Be polite, punctual, and mindful of your body language.

7. Focusing Only on What the Company Can Do for You

While salary and benefits are important, the first interview is not the place to lead with them.

The Mistake: Asking “What’s the vacation policy?” or “How soon can I get a promotion?” before you’ve even discussed the role’s responsibilities.
The Fix: Focus your conversation on what you can contribute and how you can add value. Save detailed questions about salary and benefits for after an offer is made.

8. Arriving Late

Punctuality is a simple demonstration of reliability.

The Mistake: Arriving late to the interview without a very good reason and prior communication.
The Fix: Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early. For virtual interviews, log in 5-10 minutes early to test your technology and ensure a stable connection.

9. Not Actively Listening

An interview is a two-way conversation, not a monologue.

The Mistake: Interrupting the interviewer, or formulating your answer in your head while they are still talking, causing you to miss key points.
The Fix: Listen carefully to the entire question. Pause for a moment to collect your thoughts before answering. This shows respect and ensures your answer is relevant.

10. Forgetting to Follow Up

The interview isn’t over when you walk out the door.

The Mistake: Not sending a thank-you note, missing a chance to reinforce your interest and professionalism.
The Fix: Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email to each interviewer. Briefly reiterate your enthusiasm and mention a specific part of the conversation you enjoyed.

Your Success is Our Goal

At BACT, we don’t just place candidates; we empower them. Mastering the interview is a critical skill in today’s competitive job market. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you present the best, most professional version of yourself.

Ready to find your next opportunity with a partner dedicated to your success? Explore our open positions or get in touch with a BACT consultant today to prepare for your interview with confidence.