Don't Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

23rd October 2025

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

3rd October 2025

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

3rd October 2025

The air is getting crispier and pumpkins are appearing on doorsteps which can only mean one thing – spooky season is officially upon us!

While you might be planning your perfect costume or creating the perfect treat box for your guests, for many, this time of year also brings thoughts of new beginnings and career moves for the new year.

We’ve seen countless interviews and while most go swimmingly, some common pitfalls can turn a promising candidate into a ghostly memory.

So, as we celebrate Halloween, here are three common interview fails that can derail your chances, along with practical advice on how you can avoid them:

The Disappearing Act – Lack of Preparation

Imagine this – you’re settling in for your interview, feeling confident. The interviewer asks, “So, what do you know about (company)?” and your mind goes blank. You stammer, “Uh, you’re a (company function)…right?”

This is perhaps the biggest interview fail of all. A lack of preparation screams disinterest and shows a fundamental disrespect for the interviewer’s time and the opportunity itself. It signals that you haven’t taken the application process seriously.

How to avoid it:

Research the company – Visit their website and understand their mission, values, recent news and services. Understand who they are and what they do.
Understand the role – Read the description thoroughly. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills. Think about how your experience aligns with each point.
Research your interviewer – If you know who you’ll be speaking with, a quick LinkedIn search can give you valuable insights into their background and professional interests.
Prepare Questions – Always have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates engagement and initiative

The Grave Robber – Speaking ill of Past Employers

The interviewer leans forward, “Tell me about why you left your last role.” You take a deep breath and launch into a scathing critique of your previous manager, the “toxic” work environment, and how you were “underappreciated”.

While you might think you’re justifying your move, badmouthing employers is a major red flag. It makes you sound negative, unprofessional and leaves the interviewer wondering if you’ll speak about their company the same way in the future. Recruiters and hiring managers look for candidates who handle conflict and transitions with maturity and professionalism.

How to avoid it:

Focus on the positive – Frame your reasons for leaving in a positive light. Talk about seeking new challenges, opportunities for growth, or a better alignment with your career goals.
Maintain professionalism – Even if your past experience wasn’t ideal, speak with diplomacy and professionalism. It shows maturity and a positive outlook.
Look forward – Emphasise what you’re looking for in your next role and how this opportunity aligns with your aspirations.

The Mummy’s Curse – Forgetting Body Language and Professionalism

You walk into the interview room, slumping slightly, avoiding eye contact. When asked a question, you mumble your answer, fiddle with your phone on the table and interrupt the interviewer.

Your non-verbal communication speaks volumes. Poor body language and a lack of professionalism can make you appear disengaged, uninterested, or even disrespectful, regardless of how brilliant your answers might be. It creates an instant, negative barrier.

How to avoid it:

Dress the part – Always dress professionally, even if the company culture is casual. It shows you take the interview seriously.
Punctuality is key – Arrive a few minutes early. Being late is a sure-fire way to start on the wrong foot.
Eye contact – Maintain appropriate eye contact. It conveys confidence and engagement.
Active Listening – Listen attentively to the interviewer’s question and comments. Nod occasionally to show you’re engaged.
Confident posture – Sit up straight, project confidence and avoid fidgeting.
Mind your manners – Be polite, thank the interviewer for their time and send a follow-up thank-you email.

In Conclusion

Don’t let these common interview fails haunt your career prospects. By preparing thoroughly, maintain a positive and professional attitude, and being mindful of your communication, you’ll impress your interviewer and land that dream role.

Ready to put these tips into practice? Check out our latest vacancies on our Job Portal or register your vacancy with us today.

The air is getting crispier and pumpkins are appearing on doorsteps which can only mean one thing – spooky season is officially upon us!

We’ve seen countless interviews and while most go swimmingly, some common pitfalls can turn a promising candidate into a ghostly memory.

So, as we celebrate Halloween, here are three common interview fails that can derail your chances, along with practical advice on how you can avoid them:

The Disappearing Act – Lack of Preparation

How to avoid it:

Research the company – Visit their website and understand their mission, values, recent news and services. Understand who they are and what they do.
Understand the role – Read the description thoroughly. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills. Think about how your experience aligns with each point.
Research your interviewer – If you know who you’ll be speaking with, a quick LinkedIn search can give you valuable insights into their background and professional interests.
Prepare Questions – Always have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates engagement and initiative.

The Grave Robber – Speaking ill of Past Employers

How to avoid it:

Focus on the positive – Frame your reasons for leaving in a positive light. Talk about seeking new challenges, opportunities for growth, or a better alignment with your career goals.
Maintain professionalism – Even if your past experience wasn’t ideal, speak with diplomacy and professionalism. It shows maturity and a positive outlook.
Look forward – Emphasise what you’re looking for in your next role and how this opportunity aligns with your aspirations.

The Mummy’s Curse – Forgetting Body Language and Professionalism

You walk into the interview room, slumping slightly, avoiding eye contact. When asked a question, you mumble your answer, fiddle with your phone on the table and interrupt the interviewer.

How to avoid it:

Dress the part – Always dress professionally, even if the company culture is casual. It shows you take the interview seriously.
Punctuality is key – Arrive a few minutes early. Being late is a sure-fire way to start on the wrong foot.
Eye contact – Maintain appropriate eye contact. It conveys confidence and engagement.
Active Listening – Listen attentively to the interviewer’s question and comments. Nod occasionally to show you’re engaged.
Confident posture – Sit up straight, project confidence and avoid fidgeting.
Mind your manners – Be polite, thank the interviewer for their time and send a follow-up thank-you email.

In Conclusion

Ready to put these tips into practice? Check out our latest vacancies on our Job Portal or register your vacancy with us today.

The air is getting crispier and pumpkins are appearing on doorsteps which can only mean one thing – spooky season is officially upon us!

We’ve seen countless interviews and while most go swimmingly, some common pitfalls can turn a promising candidate into a ghostly memory.

So, as we celebrate Halloween, here are three common interview fails that can derail your chances, along with practical advice on how you can avoid them:

The Disappearing Act – Lack of Preparation

How to avoid it

Research the company – Visit their website and understand their mission, values, recent news and services. Understand who they are and what they do.
Understand the role – Read the description thoroughly. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills. Think about how your experience aligns with each point.
Research your interviewer – If you know who you’ll be speaking with, a quick LinkedIn search can give you valuable insights into their background and professional interests.
Prepare Questions – Always have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates engagement and initiative.

The Grave Robber – Speaking ill of Past Employers

How to avoid it

Focus on the positive – Frame your reasons for leaving in a positive light. Talk about seeking new challenges, opportunities for growth, or a better alignment with your career goals.
Maintain professionalism – Even if your past experience wasn’t ideal, speak with diplomacy and professionalism. It shows maturity and a positive outlook.
Look forward – Emphasise what you’re looking for in your next role and how this opportunity aligns with your aspirations.

The Mummy’s Curse – Forgetting Body Language and Professionalism

You walk into the interview room, slumping slightly, avoiding eye contact. When asked a question, you mumble your answer, fiddle with your phone on the table and interrupt the interviewer.

How to avoid it

Dress the part – Always dress professionally, even if the company culture is casual. It shows you take the interview seriously.
Punctuality is key – Arrive a few minutes early. Being late is a sure-fire way to start on the wrong foot.
Eye contact – Maintain appropriate eye contact. It conveys confidence and engagement.
Active Listening – Listen attentively to the interviewer’s question and comments. Nod occasionally to show you’re engaged.
Confident posture – Sit up straight, project confidence and avoid fidgeting.
Mind your manners – Be polite, thank the interviewer for their time and send a follow-up thank-you email.

In Conclusion

Ready to put these tips into practice? Check out our latest vacancies on our Job Portal or register your vacancy with us today.

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

Don’t Spook Your Interviewer - 3 Common Interview Fails to Guarantee Application Failure

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