5 interview myths debunked

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-wracking! Unless you’re a job searching guru, chances are you’re asking advice from family members, friends, teachers, or internet forums. With so many differing opinions floating around, many times answers will be contradictory, outdated, or just all together untrue.

Unfortunately, some of these misbeliefs may cost you the job!!

To help you succeed in your search, I’ve compiled 5 common interview myths and the reality behind these misconceptions.

MYTH 1: My appearance doesn’t actually matter

As we always say here at Jobcase, dress for success! When going to your first #interview, make sure you’re putting your best foot forward, even if you’re applying for a job that has a more casual work environment. Let them know you put thought and effort into your interview from the beginning to end.

Besides, dressing sharp can make you feel more confident and shows your potential employer you take pride in your appearance!

This doesn’t just apply for in-person interviews. Dressing your best for virtual interviews is just as important!

MYTH 2: I’ll look desperate if I follow up after the interview

Quite the opposite, actually! When you follow up with the interviewer, it demonstrates your proactiveness and reaffirms your interest in the role. You can mail in a handwritten note or send an email to express your excitement to join the team and thank them for their time.

Small acts like this help differentiate yourself from the competition and increase your chances of moving on to the next step of the hiring process. Read more here!

MYTH 3: I don’t need to provide specifics, my resume says it all

While your resume provides a great snapshot of your work history and qualifications, avoid thinking that your application speaks for you. In some cases, the person interviewing you may have had less than 60 seconds to look over your #resume and cover letter! So, don't give general, broad answers.

For example, when they ask the question, “Why should we hire you?” they are looking for more than just “I have skills that will allow me to do well in this job.” Provide examples that illustrate past accomplishments and specific skills that will contribute to your success at their company.

Need tips on how to craft the perfect resume?

MYTH 4: I can only ask questions at the end of the interview

It’s important to have one or two questions prepared for when the interviewer asks if you have any, but that’s not the only time you should be asking things that come to mind. By asking questions, you’ll appear more engaged and you’ll reduce the possibility that you’ll forget what you wanted to ask at the end.

Remember that interviews should be a two-way conversation. While the employer is looking to learn more about you, it’s also an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and role.

MYTH 5: If I don't have the perfect response, I'm going to be disqualified

You do NOT have to know the right answer to every single question asked. As long as you try your best to understand what an interviewer is asking, and you put some thought into your responses, an employer will likely look at how you approach the questions rather than whether or not you answered each question flawlessly. We're all human after all, nobody is perfect!

Curious on how to navigate difficult questions in an interview?

What other myths have you heard about interviewing? Let us know below!