Job Interview Weaknesses

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Job Interview Weaknesses - You Can Improve!

In my career as a staffing manager, I have conducted a lot of interviews. I will tell you, there are very few people who consider themselves "excellent" job interviewers.

If you feel that job interview weaknesses are keeping you from that dream job, don't despair! The number one key to improving your performance in that next interview is to follow a good system and practice for your interview ahead of time.

Some Common Job Interview Weaknesses 

(and how to fix them)

Lack of Industry Knowledge
I've seen so many people show up for an interview with a great background, great suit, personality out the wazoo, and then blow it by sitting down and saying "So...what do you guys do here?" DON'T DO IT! If you can't at least spend a few minutes looking at the company's website, perhaps their latest financial release, and find a few articles about what's happening in the industry; how can you expect them to hire you? Always go into a job interview with a few key facts about the company in your mind, and look for the opportunity to show that you did your homework.

Poor communication skills
People are often nervous during an interview, which is normal, but if your nervousness gets out of control you may end up stuttering, stammering, and spitting out sentence fragments like a buffoon! The key to reducing nervousness? Preparation! You might not achieve a zen-like state of calm, but if you practice your responses and stories (out loud) until they become natural, you will feel a lot more in control.

Inappropriate attire / Poor etiquette
A few months ago I interviewed a very talented individual who was quite successful in the Oil and Gas industry here in Denver. I had already seen his impressive resume and spoken with him on the phone, and was expecting to be dazzled. When he showed up for the interview he was dressed in jeans and an un-tucked, wrinkled shirt, and smelled like he had just swallowed an ashtray in the elevator on the way up to my office. Yuck! No matter what your credentials, you still need to make the best first impression you can.

Job Interview Weaknesses Are Really Hidden Opportunities 

The job market is very competitive right now. Employers are getting more and more picky about the people they hire, and performing poorly at the interview can really torpedo your chances at a great new job.

Make sure you are as prepared as you can be! The interview preparation strategies I recommend here can really mean the difference between "You're Hired!" and "Don't Call Us - We'll Call You."

Job Interview Weaknesses - This Guy Has Them! 

Don't be like Milton - Get Prepared Now!

Don't get stuck in a dead end job, being pushed from cube to cube like Milton from the movie Office Space! You CAN overcome those weaknesses.

More Job Interview Information 

by Interview_Guy

I am a former staffing professional and have participated in over 300 interviews in my career. I love sharing tips and techniques to help people find... (more)
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