As a recruiter, I can tell you that interviewing for a job is one of those things that is only mastered with practice and preparation. That being said, just because you have mastered your end of the interview process does not mean the recruiter, hiring manager, or panel doing the interviewing has mastered theirs. Clearly, that leaves a lot of room for fumbles, faux pas, and curve balls. At the end of the day, in order to nail your important interview, you will need to be prepared for all of the above.

When it comes to faux pas in the interview process, I have seen many, from walking out of interviews early to bad mouthing previous employers. There are many things that you can do to avoid any faux pas that may hinder your consideration for the position. Many of these tactics are centered around preparation.

Practice Makes Perfect

1. Do your research before the interview. Chances are, the potential employer will ask you what you know about their organization and how it works. Not only is it important to them that you can answer this question (shows initiative and interest in the position) but, it is important for you. Remember, you are interviewing them too. You need to understand the organization and how it works to better determine if it is a good fit for you or not.
2. Stay on topic. Sometimes, when you are so focused on how you deliver your message, you forget the original question. I have seen this happen time and time again. A candidate will ramble on for 10 minutes trying to answer the question, spewing irrelevant information, and losing the interviewer half way through. Articulate your answers, keep them brief, to the point, stay focused on the question, and only share relevant information.
3. Think ahead. Chances are, you have faced the “what if” or “how would you handle this situation” questions. These questions will most likely be asked because potential employers want to know how you would handle situations relevant to the position. One of the best things you can do is prepare a few examples of ways you have previously handled challenging or unexpected situations.

Be Honest

If you are asked a question you don’t have an answer for, or if you are truly unsure of how you would handle a situation, be honest and ensure the interviewer you would converse with colleagues, conduct research, and ask for help if needed.

Have Some Questions For Us, Too

Preparing your questions for the interviewer is just as important as preparing your answers. Put together a list of questions you have for your potential employer and make sure to bring them with you to the interview. Preparing questions can help you to better determine if the company is the right fit for you and shows the interviewer(s) that you have put a lot of time and effort into preparing for the opportunity.

Lastly, try to stay calm, cool, and collected throughout the process. Do not rush your answers. Take your time and think about what you are saying before you speak. Walking into an important interview can be intimidating, but remember we are all human and we have all been there before – plus, you’ve already made it this far so you know they are already interested in you. With the right preparation and practice, you can avoid the common fumbles and faux pas of the interview process.