Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During a Post-graduate Job Interview

A common job interview mistake is providing vague or incomplete answers to interview questions. This often occurs when candidates fail to provide specific examples or sufficient details to support their responses. Mistakes during a job interview refer to actions or behaviors that can negatively impact the chances of securing the position. These mistakes can vary, but some common ones include:

Lack of preparation 

Lack of preparation for a job interview can harm your chances of success. It is essential to adequately prepare beforehand to maximize your chances of presenting well and impressing the interviewer. Consider the following tips: 

• Study the job description 

Studying the job description is important not just before the interview but also during the interview itself. During the interview, refer to the appropriate job description to showcase your alignment with the role and provide targeted well-informed responses.

• Review common interview questions

Prepare answers to common interview questions, such as discussing your strengths and weaknesses, describing a challenging situation, or explaining why you want to work for the company. Practice your responses to feel more confident during the interview.

• Dress appropriately 

Dressing appropriately shows respect for the interview process and reflects your seriousness and professionalism. When in doubt, it’s always better to dress more conservatively and adjust based on the company culture and specific instructions the employer provides..

• Bring necessary documents 

Ensure you have multiple copies of your resume, a list of references, and any other relevant documents the employer may require.

Poor communication skills 

Effective communication is crucial during a job interview. Avoid common communication mistakes such as speaking too fast, using excessive jargon, or failing to listen actively. Prepare responses to common interview questions and practice articulating them clearly and concisely. Paying attention to your body language for a job interview is essential as it conveys non-verbal cues that can influence the interviewer’s perception of you.  

Improving your communication skills takes practice and awareness. Consider seeking feedback from trusted individuals or participating in mock interviews to gain confidence and refine your communication style.

Negativity or lack of enthusiasm

Demonstrating a negative attitude or lack of enthusiasm during an interview can be a significant turn-off for employers. Avoid speaking negatively about past experiences or showing disinterest in the job opportunity. Instead, highlight your passion, motivation, and excitement for the position and the company.

Inadequate knowledge of the company 

Employers expect candidates to have a good understanding of their organization. Failing to research the company’s values, mission, culture, and recent developments can create the impression that you are not genuinely interested in the role. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the company to demonstrate your genuine interest.

Lack of questions or engagement

Not asking thoughtful questions or actively engaging with the interviewer can make you appear disengaged or uninterested. Prepare a list of relevant questions about the company, role, team dynamics, or company culture to demonstrate your enthusiasm and curiosity. Engaging in a meaningful conversation with the interviewer shows interest and helps leave a positive impression.

Here are some questions you can consider asking the interviewer:

• What are the short-term and long-term goals or expectations for someone in this position?
• How would you describe the company culture and values?
• Please provide more information about the team or department I would be working with.
• How does this company support professional development and growth opportunities?
• What are the biggest challenges or opportunities that the company is currently facing?
• Please share any recent or upcoming projects or initiatives I would be involved in.
• How does the company promote work-life balance and employee well-being?
• What is the typical career progression for someone in this role or department?
• Can you tell me about the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion approach?

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, and it’s common to make mistakes. However, being aware of these mistakes can help you avoid them in the future. Remember, mistakes happen, and it’s important to learn from them. Reflect on your interview experiences, identify areas for improvement, and use them to enhance your future performance.

Sampoerna University 

Sampoerna University is a fully accredited university in Indonesia that offers the best choice for those seeking excellent international education. Sampoerna University is a private, non-denominational, non-profit university licensed and certified by the Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. Formed according to national and international standards, Sampoerna University is qualified to contribute to society through education substantially.

Sampoerna University provides a range of student affairs services and resources to support students throughout their academic journey and enhance their overall college experience. Student Affairs provides a few services to help students to be work-ready through a series of programs such as career seminars, CV Reviews, Interview Practice, and job information sharing of internships and full-time employment.

Students are invited to join personality and job-fit assessments to help students understand whether their career goals match their interests and personalities. All programs are offered to students without charge,  and all program invitations are sent to students by university email and WA groups. Therefore, students should be active in checking their email and WA messages.