Top 10 Things Not to Do in a Job Interview

Has your application caught a recruiter's eye and you have a job interview scheduled? Congratulations! With the help of your Actual advisors and our many articles, you have worked on your application, prepared for your interview, you know the questions to ask and the ones not to ask the recruiter—in short, you're all set. Really? Here are 10 faux pas to avoid at all costs if you want to land your dream job.

1- Arriving late

And not letting them know! This immediately gives the recruiter a bad impression, leading them to think you lack respect or organizational skills. Of course, some things are beyond your control (traffic jams, public transport strikes). You should therefore plan your route in advance and leave early enough. And if you truly have a real and valid reason, notify your contact promptly, apologize over the phone, and then again in person.

2- Not preparing for the job interview

As mentioned in the introduction, an interview requires preparation. Recruiters expect candidates to have researched the company, its business, its market, and its current news. A lack of preparation shows a lack of interest and motivation for the role. Conversely, by finding out about the company, you will feel more at ease during the interview.

3- Exhibiting inappropriate behavior

Sitting down before being invited to do so, using overly familiar or even rude language, being too casual or not relaxed enough, fidgeting with accessories or your hair, avoiding eye contact with the recruiter, slouching in your chair, chewing gum, crossing your arms... the list of breaches of etiquette goes on. Don't forget that your body sends many signals! Of course, you should be yourself in an interview, but making an effort to master your body language is essential to convince your future employer.

4- Not turning off your mobile phone

This goes hand in hand with disrespectful behavior! For the duration of the interview, forget about your mobile phone. You need to be 100% focused on the recruiter. To avoid being interrupted by a ringtone or notifications, switch off your device and leave it in your bag or pocket. If you need to present documents, remember to print them out or bring a laptop.

What about video interviews? Remote interviews have their own traps: an untested connection, a crackling microphone, a cluttered background, or notifications popping up on screen. Test your equipment beforehand, set yourself up in a quiet, well-lit space, close unnecessary tabs and applications, and look at the camera rather than at your own reflection.

5- Failing to manage your stress

We all know that a job interview can be particularly nerve-wracking. Rest assured: recruiters know it too, and a touch of nervousness at the start of an interview has never disqualified anyone. The key is not to let it overwhelm you. Work on your breathing, prepare, anticipate... put all the odds on your side to show that you are confident in yourself and that you are THE right person for the job.

6- Reciting your CV

In a job interview, reciting your CV line by line is out of the question: the recruiter has already read it in detail, which is why you're sitting in front of them. Instead, illustrate and build upon what you wrote with concrete examples, figures, etc. This is also your opportunity to ask questions about the assignment, the role, etc. Asking relevant questions throughout and at the end of the interview is proof of interest to the recruiter.

7- Not asking the right questions

And speaking of questions... some are worth waiting for. Discussing compensation is no longer taboo: more and more job listings now display a salary range, and you have every right to bring up the subject during the recruitment process. However, during a first interview, avoid initiating discussions about salary, paid leave, or meal vouchers. You are primarily there to sell your skills and show your desire to work for the company... not just for its perks.

8- Lying or omitting information

Don't play a role and don't lie during the interview! Everyone experiences ups and downs in life. A professional career is rarely a straight line, and gaps in a CV are common. You just need to learn how to highlight these downtime periods. Fake dates, concealed dismissal, exaggerated skills: the recruiter could check your background and contact your references. Staying true to yourself will always work in your favor.

9- Criticizing your employer

Even if you really don't get along with your (soon-to-be) ex-employer, never criticize them! It shows a lack of tact and diplomacy, and will project a negative image of you. Frame your conversation from a more neutral perspective, describing instead what you are looking for in terms of management.

10- Failing to listen actively

Interviews that leave the best impression on recruiters (and are therefore winning moves for the candidate) are those that are based on a two-way dialogue. Don't rattle off your entire presentation all at once by monopolizing the conversation. Pay attention to your interviewer: answer their questions clearly and concisely without digressing. Follow up with a question only if appropriate (don't overdo it), and use this moment to reassure the employer about your added value.

Finally, a little bonus tip: don't take things personally! If despite all your preparation and a suitable profile you don't get the job, it's nothing personal—it just means you weren't the right candidate. And even if it's disappointing or discouraging, it's better to realize it now than after signing your contract. So don't give up: you will find many job offers on the Actual website. Also remember to contact your advisor to discuss training and career conversion.