5 Mistakes Recruiters Won't Forgive

In a job interview, there are common, banal mistakes that seem "acceptable", and then there are those that are unforgivable.

Here are a few:

1. Being too sophisticated

While a job interview is a professional form of seduction, it's not a ball. Avoid inappropriate or overly flashy clothing that distracts from the rest. Also avoid excessive makeup and strong scents (deodorants and heavy, cloying perfumes). There is no need to bother your interviewer with a scent that evokes memories (you never know!), or even physically bothers them.

2. Not speaking

You are there to communicate. To communicate information, and to gather information through communication. Therefore, speak! It is bad form to answer briefly, abruptly, with one definitive and sufficient word. You must elaborate, argue your points, explain, and politely take into account your interviewer's legitimate ignorance and curiosity. Know that a candidate who is stingy with words, remains silent and/or does not provide enough information is systematically refused the position. Learn to talk about yourself naturally, and to show interest in the company you are applying to.

3. Talking too much and not listening enough

"Communicating" does not mean drowning your interviewer in an inexhaustible flow of words, useless chatter, and various and sundry sounds, ranging from unpleasant to unbearable! It's not about monologuing, detailing your life in a monotonous voice, or describing your professional experiences in minute detail when you haven't been asked to! Besides boring, tiring, or even annoying the recruiter, you have nothing to gain. You will simply be considered incapable of summarizing or being interesting and captivating orally. Next! You must be able to adapt your speech to your interviewer's expectations by listening to the question, understanding it, and not being afraid to ask for clarification if you don't understand or have not clearly defined it. Never hesitate to ask your interviewer to rephrase their question. This will only prove that you are paying attention to what is expected of you, that you are eager to answer a specific request. And isn't that the hallmark of a good employee...?

4. Not using correct language

Respecting your interviewer means looking them straight in the eye, without avoiding their gaze, and speaking using at least correct vocabulary. Absolutely avoid slang, vulgar or overly trendy words, and verlan (reverse slang). Remain naturally in a daily register, if not a refined one. You are not with a friend, and you are there to prove that you are capable of maintaining an hour-long conversation using the language of a responsible adult. The same goes for the emphasized "uh" at the end of each sentence, or the light and playful "what" and "huh" that punctuate the sentences of many young people.

5. Lying

All recruiters will tell you: a lie, even the smallest one, is unforgivable. The discovery of a falsehood immediately creates a loss of interest by causing a loss of trust, a valuable and essential asset in a company. Therefore, never take this risk that would radically block your path to this position, but also to others in the same company. Not to mention that a reputation is quickly established in some cities...

Also discover our article on behaviors to avoid in interviews
 

The ReKrute Team