Knobull Puts A Stop To Interview Errors

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - April 4, 2024 - PRLog -- Lynn Bentley reported, "Even if you get a response from a job posting and have years of experience, the interview process can be full of uncertainty.

I'm the President of Knobull, and I've played the role of both interviewee and hiring manager for companies of various sizes over the past 30 years. It can be very helpful to use JobStars career coaching at Knobull to formulate your pitch and avoid significant interview mistakes!"

1. Not preparing enough

To stand out, do your homework — it's the first step to interview success.

As a hiring manager, encountering candidates who haven't taken the time to understand the organization's mission and goals is not only disheartening but painfully obvious.

Go into your interview armed with (at least) an understanding of the product or service offered by the company, an overview of the market landscape and key competitors.

2. Failing to include metrics in your story

As a hiring manager, I don't need an hourlong explanation of every role and project you've been a part of.

The most impressive candidates can consolidate their experiences into a succinct and compelling narrative that demonstrates their expertise and drive, associated with key metrics pertinent to the role. My preference is a simple model using situation faced, action taken, measured result.

3. Neglecting to ask the right questions

Asking insightful questions showcases your interest in the role and company. As a hiring manager, encountering candidates who have no questions, or only surface-level questions, can signal a lack of genuine interest or preparation.

Ask the questions you need to know the answers to determine whether you'll be your happiest and most successful self in the role.

4. Overlooking nonverbal cues

Body language is important during any interview (especially for roles, for which excellent communication in all forms is an absolute necessity).

As an interviewee, maintaining positive body language can enhance your perceived confidence and credibility — even over Zoom. You should appear engaged through appropriate hand motions and maintain good posture.

5. Ignoring cultural fit

Balance is a hot topic. A big mistake I made early in my career was to ignore company red flags because a company name or salary felt too good to pass up.

Remember, just because something looks good on paper, or feels good to someone else, doesn't mean it's the right opportunity for you.

6. Forgetting to follow up

Post-interview etiquette isn't dead, but in an increasingly remote world, people often forget this is the case. Sending an appreciation message or post-interview LinkedIn connection demonstrates professionalism and reinforces your interest in the role.

Bentley concluded, "Having received and sent such messages, I can attest to their impact — they leave a positive impression and keep you top of mind during the decision-making process."