Many people feel a surge of excitement when they receive an interview invitation. However, this excitement can lead to common mistakes during interviews. Recruiters and Employers have found that candidates frequently make the following errors.
Inappropriate Attire
Thomas Jacobsen, Director, AIMS International Malta, says: “Dress smart. Simply wear what you would normally wear to work and, when in doubt, lean on the side of smart. These days, businesses have team-specific webpages, so you can sometimes see photos of the team at work on the website and social media. You can then assess whether you need to make any adjustments to fit in with the company culture.”
The Handshake Approach
As Luke Attard-Montalto, Associate Director, AIMS International Malta says: “First impressions matter, and your handshake is a crucial part of that. A weak handshake can be unsettling, while a firm, courteous handshake is an essential skill in the workplace and beyond.”
Contesting The Interview Premise
Luke also shares another shortcoming that a Recruiter faces with prospective candidates: “While it may be true that a lot of first interviews are conducted online these days if you were asked to go to the office, don't dispute the interview's premise. You would most likely be invited to the office if you applied for an office-based position. Alternatively, the job is not for you if you believe it is not worth coming in for.”
Be Tech Ready
An important advice from Stefani Grech, Manager, AIMS International Malta: “The interview process might be hampered by failing to test your technology beforehand and ignoring issues like the online platform functionality or the interview location. Given that most initial interviews are now done via video conference, this is very important. I strongly advise candidates to join the interview at least 15 minutes in advance to identify if any technical issues will arise.”
Slandering Ex-Employers
Another one from Stefani: “Even if you are dissatisfied with your former employment, do not get overconfident during interviews and begin slandering them. This is a NO. Rather, concentrate on the benefits that resulted from those unpleasant events, the lessons you took away from them, and the ways in which you overcame obstacles in your professional life.”
Asking Or Not Asking Questions
Louise Vella, Director, AIMS International Malta: “Asking questions at the conclusion of the interview is a big YES, but be careful what kind of questions you ask. In your initial interview, inquire about the company's culture, regular daily tasks, role expectations, etc. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm, eagerness, and desire for the chance to advance or get hired. However, avoid benefit-related questions, such as asking about sick pay policies during an initial interview. If you were shortlisted by one of our Recruitment Consultants, you will already have wage and other benefits information, so there is no need to inquire during the interview.”
Show Genuine Interest
With expertise and experience in Human Resources Management for more than 20 years, Louise highlights: “Every recruiter and employer has seen candidates who are merely interested in the position or industry as a profession; they lack enthusiasm or affection for it. Applying alone won't get you paid. In order to convince employers that you are a good fit for the position, you must demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm and passion.”
Talking Excessively
Lana Zdravkovic, Junior Consultant, AIMS International Malta, says: “Don’t try to talk your way out of it. It is a NO. This can sometimes be attributed to anxiety, other times to overthinking, and frequently to the questions' excessive length, which can encourage you to say a lot and hope the correct response is somewhere in there. One common mistake we see with prospective candidates is them continuing to speak after responding. Be assured of what you've said and know when you've finished because some interviewers will purposefully pause to watch how the candidate will respond under pressure.”
Unprepared
Chris Armstrong, Director, AIMS International Malta, says: “This means that you haven't done your homework, you’re unaware of the key aspects of the role that you’re being interviewed for, and you can't make connections between your CV and experience and the role. It’s easy to notice when a candidate has turned up unprepared, and when they do, the interest in that candidate is lost quite quickly.
Nowadays, it’s very easy but very important to do proper research and to go on to the website to see what the company does, how it started, and any general information you can get. This really makes someone stand out from the pool of applicants.”
Be On Time
Last but not least, Ricoh Davids, Consultant, AIMS International Malta, says: “Allow yourself enough time to get ready, arrive twenty minutes in advance, but avoid showing up too soon! Arriving five to ten minutes early for your interview demonstrates your punctuality while avoiding a hurried approach.”
The Way Forward
Recognise these shortcomings, be aware and avoid them, and it will help you establish a strong personal brand, which is essential for professionals looking to advance in a crowded field. Let us assist you in initiating the Talent Management process, which will enable you to successfully acquire your ideal job in Malta.