Section 4: Common reasons for failures at job interviews – Polls

Poll ended – here are the results ->

What is the worst mistake candidates make that ruin their chances of being hired?

• Doesn’t show any interest in the job for which they are being interviewed and indicates they just want to get their foot in the door (34%, 50 Votes)
• Shows up late for the interview (29%, 43 Votes)
• Bad mouths their current or former employer(s) (25%, 37 Votes)
• Comes to the interview dressed for a nightclub scene or dressed like they just cleaned their house (16%, 23 Votes)
• Doesn’t turn off cell phone during interview and then proceeds to take calls (0%, 23 Votes)

Total Voters: 147

What are some other critical mistakes to avoid? (3 answers allowed)

• Fails to research the company and/or be familiar with the job for which they are being interviewed (57%, 64 Votes)
• Starts negotiating salary before they are even offered the position (43%, 49 Votes)
• Unable to articulate in their own words their strengths and/or weaknesses (39%, 44 Votes)
• Appearing nervous or arrogant (28%, 32 Votes)
• Fumbling while answering (26%, 29 Votes)
• Doesn’t ask any questions (24%, 27 Votes)
• Talks too much or not enough (19%, 21 Votes)
• Follow up calling twice a day, every day, to check up for updates in the process (16%, 18 Votes)
• Claim expertise in too many fields (13%, 15 Votes)

Total Voters: 113

What is the single most important reason why candidates are rejected after job interviews?

• Lack of preparation & interview skills (29%, 43 Votes)
• Skills and experience do not fit (25%, 37 Votes)
• Poor communication skills (23%, 35 Votes)
• Availability of more suitable candidates (14%, 21 Votes)
• Does not fit with company culture / values (9%, 13 Votes)

Total Voters: 149

Why won’t anyone hire you?

• Lack of good prep to interviews – reshape you job interview performance (29%, 36 Votes)
• You are not alone – Too many individuals competing for too few job openings (22%, 27 Votes)
• Missing job target: You’re not a good fit for the positions you’re applying for. You must revise your skill-sets, experience and qualifications (22%, 27 Votes)
• You might be selling yourself short (15%, 19 Votes)
• Take stock of what you’re projecting – you might project the wrong impression (8%, 10 Votes)
• You aren’t creative enough in your job search – expand your job searching activities and sources (4%, 6 Votes)

Total Voters: 125