Meeting the recruiter is an essential step in getting a new job. Usually the main objective of a job interview is to convince recruiters that you are the ideal candidate. But, sometimes this meeting doesn’t end as expected; recruiters didn’t contact you back. There is no response to your follow up email. If all of this happened; it means that you failed at the job interview. Here are the top 15 killer mistakes that will ruin your professional life.

Job Interviews in Luxembourg:

Failing at a job interview can happen to any candidate. Too much confusion and a badly prepared meeting can portray you as the worst candidate. There are many ways to lose this appointment. As a candidate, you need to know when an interview is going badly and learn from previous mistakes. You can predict the final result by relying on a few clues left by the recruiter: the absence of any smile, the lack of eye contact, etc….During a job interview, certain behaviors can affect the whole meeting. It doesn't matter how good the CV is and it doesn't matter how motivated you are. Of course, nothing is lost if you are really a good candidate...Fratres will provide you with a selection of these mistakes that are to be avoided. You can also sign up to Fratres to know about the necessary professional requirements in your favorite country:

1. Arriving Late

It is very difficult to get rid of a bad first impression. You should know that an interview starts in a specific time and place: Arriving late will be badly reviewed, especially when you don’t justify it. Try by all means coming on time and expressing your apology in case you have missed the appointment.

2. Badly Dressed 

You can never be blamed for your fashion choices if they include a tie or a suit. But, the whole look can be badly interpreted if you wear casual clothes and give less importance to the meeting. In Luxembourg, certain professions require a level of elegance. Before coming to the job interview, take a look at the corporate culture and the required look to meet the recruiters. Take a look at; Five Doubts You Should Clarify About Getting Started.

3. Being Overconfident 

This might surprise you as a reason for a job interview rejection. The difference between a confident candidate and an arrogant candidate is often toxic. By showing a high level of confidence, you may deliver the following messages: you are overqualified for the job or you don’t have enough credibility. Do not be afraid to be modest by choosing phrases like “I had the chance to…” I have the occasion/ opportunity…Be careful not to show less interest in the job.

4. Poor Body Language:

The way you sit, you talk, you behave are signs that can tell a lot about your professional personality. Another mistake that can culminate a negative impression is that you do not look your interlocutor in the eye. Avoiding eye contact can sometimes be translated as lack of self-confidence and confusion. Your whole attitude must prove that you are present, focused and involved!

5. Don’t know how to Introduce yourself Professionally:

When you come to a job interview, the first thing you need to do is introduce yourself to interviewers. This can be a challenging task, especially when you are an entry-level applicant. However when  the interview is progressing, you feel more and more at ease... But, be careful not to fall into excess of familiarity and reveal your personal life! 

6. Reciting your CV

It is very important to master your career and know how to talk about it. However, avoid answering too quickly and showing your CV by heart. In other words, when you prepare for your interview, think about the outlines but do not memorize your answers. Looking natural is better. So try to adapt your speech to the person in front of you and to the job you have applied for. According to the expectations described in the job or internship advertisement, it's up to you to highlight the parts of the CV that will hit the mark!

7. Failure at Describing Strategies:

Questions like "What compensation do you offer?" » or « How much can I get for extra hours? » are to be avoided during the first part of the interview or during the first interview (when you know that you will have several to pass). Because, even if these advantages are elements to be taken into account, they will only be discussed if the recruiter is interested in your application and offers you a probation period. Take a look at; These Local Practices In Cover Letters Are So Bizarre That They Will Make Your Jaw Drop!

8. Not knowing the Company/Sector/ Field

Many candidates fail to research the company. Reading the job offer is not enough. Knowing the position but also the sector will allow you not to remain speechless in front of the recruiter and to discuss with him. This small research will help you show recruiters that the position is already in your hands and that you are interested in it.

9. Not having Prepared trick Questions

The conduct of an interview is governed by certain codes. There are questions that you cannot escape. These “trap” questions must be prepared so as not to feel destabilized during the interview. These questions do not come up in 100% of interviews. but if they come up and you are “dry”, your blockage can make a bad impression.

10. Not Bringing Documents Required for the Job

To think that you will be more spontaneous if you have not prepared anything: you will obviously get rejected. Preparing yourself for the interview allows you to be much more comfortable in front of the recruiter, and therefore more natural. 

11. Having no Questions to Ask

At the end of an interview, a “good recruiter” will always ask you if you have any questions. This is often a delicate step for the candidate. Remaining silent is not the solution. A question, even a simple one, will reflect your interest in the job. For example, you can ask a question about the organization chart and the structure of the company… to better understand the workings of the company.

12. Neglecting the Follow-up Email

At the end of the job interview, you must be aware of the rest of the recruitment procedure. Follow-up is a crucial step in the recruitment process. In some cases, this will be guided by the recruiter. Otherwise, it is always welcome to send an email at the end of the interview to thank recruiters  for their time and attention.

12. Lying in your Answers

It may seem tempting to enhance your background, your experience or both in order to obtain this job of your dreams. Even if you had a career in your imagination, the reality always comes back. A recruiter may be able to verify what you say and derail your plan. Stay honest and do not make up any fake details.

13. Criticize his Former Employer

Disparaging your former employer (if it's not your first job) is never well received. Whatever your reasons, it may make your recruiter think that you lack maturity, flexibility or adaptability. Also, he might tell himself that if it went wrong before, it might happen again. Focus on your desire to evolve, learn and gain experience, both professionally and personally. Take a look at; Hierarchy in Luxembourg

14. Address the Issue of Salary

As a general rule, it is advisable not to address the question of salary or the number of paid holidays during the first interview, unless your recruiter asks you about it. It can always be discussed later, during a second interview.

15. Leaving the Interview:

Sometimes you get a sudden phone call or find yourself distracted with external matters. If you find yourself obliged to leave, keep in mind that you might lose the opportunity and recruiters will not give you the chance to meet again. Leaving the interview shows no attachment to the job or the field as you cannot confine a single day to the meeting. 

These were the top 15 errors to avoid during a job interview. There are various attitudes that can affect your meeting. Training and preparation always give the best results after the job interview.