7 Job Interview Mistakes to Avoid, According to Etiquette Expert

Job interviews remain a nerve-racking hurdle for many, even with thorough preparation. A business-etiquette expert has identified the most common mistakes candidates make that can derail their chances of securing a position.

From arriving late to overlooking social media cleanup, these errors are often simple to avoid yet frequently overlooked. Understanding these pitfalls is the first step toward making a lasting, positive impression on potential employers.

One of the most fundamental errors is arriving at an interview without proper research. Business etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore emphasizes that in the digital age, there is no excuse for being uninformed about a company.

She notes that candidates have numerous resources at their disposal, including professional networks, company websites, and social media platforms. Failing to learn about the organization and the interviewers demonstrates a lack of genuine interest.

"There's no excuse for you to go into an interview and not know about the company and something about who might be interviewing you."

Preparation also extends to the questions you ask. Tailoring your inquiries specifically to the company shows you have done your homework and are engaged with the organization's mission and challenges.

Appearance is more than just clothing; it's a reflection of attention to detail. Whitmore observes that while very few candidates are overdressed, many are too casual or overlook critical finishing touches.

Even when wearing office-appropriate attire, applicants might forget to remove price tags or cut open the vents on a new jacket. Mismatched accessories, such as a belt that doesn't complement the shoes, can also detract from an otherwise polished look.

• Ensure shoes match the outfit's color scheme.
• Remove all tags and labels from new clothing.
• Check that vents on jackets are properly opened.

These small details matter because they signal your ability to be meticulous—a trait employers value highly.

Before a candidate even steps into the room, employers are likely already conducting online research. Whitmore advises that the first thing a potential employer will do is Google you.

They will scrutinize your social media pages to understand your lifestyle, associations, and personal brand. This digital audit allows them to form judgments about your character and fit within the company culture.

"They'll look at all your social media pages. They'll look at what you eat, what you drink, what you wear, who you hang out with, what your lifestyle is — and they make judgments."

To mitigate this risk, candidates should adjust their privacy settings and clean up their online presence. Removing any content that could be used against you is a crucial step in interview preparation.

How you speak is just as important as what you say. Whitmore warns against using profanity, slang, or terminology the employer might not understand. Additionally, filler words like "like" or "um" can muddle your message and make you appear less confident.

She recommends recording yourself or practicing ahead of time to ensure you speak clearly and precisely. This preparation helps eliminate verbal tics that can distract from your qualifications.

In the era of remote work, virtual interviews present their own set of challenges. Keeping your camera on is essential; it allows the interviewer to see your facial expressions and gauge your engagement.

• Ensure your background is tidy and free of distractions.
• A blank wall is preferable to a cluttered room.
• Turn the camera on to maintain eye contact.

If you must keep the camera off for personal reasons, be prepared to explain your preference professionally.

Punctuality is non-negotiable. Whitmore states that showing up late is a "huge no-no," noting that "when you're on time, you're still late." Arriving early provides a buffer for parking, finding the meeting room, and composing yourself.

This extra time allows you to use the restroom and calm your nerves, ensuring you are focused when the interview begins. It demonstrates respect for the interviewer's schedule and a proactive attitude.

The interview process doesn't end when you leave the building. Sending a thank-you note is a critical final step. Whitmore recommends going a step further by sending both an email and a handwritten note.

"I go overboard. I send a thank you email and a thank you note because this is an opportunity for you to get into the employer's eyes at least twice."

Follow up within 24 hours, address the person by name, and explain why you enjoyed the interview and why you are a good candidate. If you struggle with wording, Whitmore suggests using AI tools to polish your draft.

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly increase your chances of success. The core theme across all advice is attention to detail—in preparation, appearance, communication, and follow-up.

By researching the company, dressing appropriately, managing your digital footprint, and communicating clearly, you present yourself as a polished and professional candidate. Remember, an interview is your opportunity to demonstrate why you are the best fit for the role.

Start implementing these strategies today to approach your next interview with confidence and poise.