A job search is a process. The first step is sending out job resumes to various companies. Once you’ve covered this step of the job search process successfully, then congratulations! You are now ready to move on to the second part of the job search process which is the job interview.

On this part, your answers to the job interview questions will make or break your job application in the company hence it’s very crucial that you plan for your job interview. And when the day finally comes, it’s understandable to feel jitters but there are ways to reduce your stress. Knowing some common job interview mistakes and how to avoid them is one of the ways to do so.

Here are some of the most common mistakes job seekers make on job interviews:

Mistake #1: Not taking the job interview seriously. Most job seekers think that once you get invited for a job interview, you’re as good as in, in the company. This is not true though. The job interview is not done simply for formality’s sake. The purpose of the job interview is so that the hiring manager can meet the job seeker in person and assess whether or not the applicant is a perfect fit for the open position in the company. 

Mistake #2: Not showing why you’re the best choice among the rest. The job interview is your chance as a hopeful job applicant to show the interviewer why you should get the job and not anyone else. So familiarize yourself with the job description of the position you are interviewing for so that you will be able to illustrate to your potential employer how your experiences, abilities and strengths befit the company’s needs. This is not the time as well for being modest. During your job interview, remember to toot your own horn. Don’t be afraid to talk about your accomplishments whether in school or your previous companies.

Mistake #3: Failing to ask questions during a job interview. Your job resume may be impressive on paper, but employers look for job applicants who are able to ask several intelligent questions as well during the job interview. Prepare at least 3 to 4 questions to ask your job interviewer in advance. Keep in mind that a job interview is all about the exchange of information and not having questions to ask may give your potential employer the impression that you’re not prepared.

Mistake #4: Trash Talking. So you hated your last employer. This doesn’t mean you should speak badly of them during your job interview. Nothing turns off potential employers more than job applicants who air their dirty laundry out in public. Avoid talking about your previous employer in a negative light no matter how unfairly you feel you’ve been treated. When the subject of your previous employment comes up, try to put a positive spin to it. This way, potential employers would perceive you as someone who is decent and professional.

Mistake #5: Don’t talk salary so soon. Yes of course salary is a big factor when you’re considering a certain job position. It is an important detail that every job searcher must determine before accepting any job offer. But the subject should be saved for a later interview.