5 Things You Should Never, Ever Do at an Interview

5 Things You Should Never, Ever Do at an Interview

While every jobseeker obviously has their own interview style, there are some things that you should never, ever do when you show up to meet with a hiring manager. Remember that your qualifications aren’t the only thing that the potential employer will be looking at – they’re also analyzing whether or not you are someone that will fit into their culture and be nice to work with.

Take a look at these 5 things that will make you look undesirable as a future employee and steer clear at all costs.

  1. Bringing gifts to the hiring manager. Yes, you want to stand out from the crowd at your interview, but showing up with a gift in hand will only make the hiring manager feel uncomfortable. Or worse, it will look like you’re kissing up to your future boss and aren’t a professional candidate.
  1. Reading your answers during an interview. It’s great to prepare for an interview and even write out some answers to common questions to help you think about what you’re going to say. However, reading these answers is a sign that you can’t think on your feet or communicate effectively.
  1. Talking trash about your current or last employer. Even if you had an awful experience at your last position and the hiring manager asks you for your thoughts, avoid dishing about how horrible or mistreated you were. Remain positive and pinpoint the areas where you were able to grow and learn from thanks to your former employer.
  1. Offering to work for free. There’s no reason why you should ever offer to work for free—even if it’s just for a short amount of time. Some candidates have offered this up as a way to get their foot in the door and prove their worth. However, not only is it illegal for someone to work with no pay (there are a few exceptions), but it shows that you don’t value your work.
  1. Begging for a job. Okay, we get it—you really need a job. But trust us, begging for the position is not the answer. There are many other ways to show that you want the job that don’t make you look desperate and crazy.

Displaying these odd behaviors during an interview will only serve as a red flag to potential employers. Focus on presenting yourself in a polished, professional manner and you’ll be well on your way to landing that new job.


Posted on December 3, 2015



Hawaii's Real Companies

Local employers share what makes their businesses unique with Real Jobs Hawaii SpokesYeti, Steve T. Yeti. Spoiler alert: the people who work there make all the difference.

What It’s Like to Work at Island Lava
Real Jobs Hawaii visited Island Lava to find out more about the Hawaii snack business.
What It’s Like to Work at Popeyes Hawaii
Steve T. Yeti visits Popeyes Hawaii to find out the unique benefits of working there. Also, fried chicken porn.
What It’s Like to Work at The Pig & The Lady
The Pig & The Lady show Steve T. Yeti why working at their restaurant is pretty amazing for passionate food lovers.