Don't Let These 11 Job Interview Myths Stop You From Getting Hired The interview process is constantly changing — adapting to current employee-employer trends. Here's our latest list of what you should keep in mind the next time you are interviewed (or interviewing).
By John Rampton Edited by Mark Klekas
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Job interviews require a lot of effort from both the interviewer and the interviewee. There are a lot of guides and resources on how to navigate interviews, but they do not always get them right. There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the interview process.
The truth is the interview process is constantly changing — adapting to current employee-employer trends. Things previously considered taboo during the interview process are now at the forefront of prospective employees' minds.
Check out these top 11 myths about job interviews that may stop you from doing your best. And after that, check out this list that shares the best practices for a second interview.
Myth 1: Employers always hire the most qualified candidates
Most people think the most experienced and qualified candidate gets the job. How come? Fear of interviews fuels this myth. Despite what this statement says — it's not true.
Related: Job Interview Preparation Checklist - Glassdoor Blog
When focusing only on qualifications, you might overlook factors like cultural fit, salary expectations, and personality traits. It might not be at the top of your mind, but an employer considers these things when hiring. In other words, a perfect resume may not be the right choice if a candidate's personality doesn't match the company's culture.
Ask yourself, are you coachable? Does the employer see there is an opportunity to train you more for the position? If you are the right cultural fit, employers are willing to take you even if you are less experienced. You can always teach someone new hard skills but soft skills and personality are a lot more difficult to mold.
Myth 2: It's always better to overdress
Business attire often includes suits or other formal clothing. You've probably heard the cliché, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have." However, if you want to land a job at a company where things are more laid-back — this advice might not be appropriate.
Related: Business Casual Attire for the Modern Workplace
Dressing well is a good way to convey an impression of the organization. Additionally, you must take into account the company's culture. Also, how you dress will impact your self-confidence.
Go for attire that shows you are confident, serious, and comfortable in your body. Showing up to an interview in a suit that is two sizes too big says a lot more about you than if you were to keep your shirt untucked. Consider the difference between formal, business casual, and smart casual attire. The difference is what can help you feel and look your best in the interview.
Myth 3: If I follow up after the interview, I will appear desperate
Keeping in touch with the interviewer demonstrates your proactiveness and reaffirms your interest in the position. However, being overly eager or pushy can be annoying and might actually harm your chances of getting the job. Art Markman wrote in Harvard Business Review: "Interviewers may handle various jobs, and if everyone they interviewed reached out to them, their inbox would be overflowing."
Here are circumstances where you may want to send a note to the hiring manager from Markman:
- The 'thank you' note. You can send your first note the day after your interview. Send a quick email thanking the hiring manager for their time. Keep it brief and to the point. Markman suggests mentioning one specific interview aspect or what you learned about the organization. Lastly, express your excitement for their response.
- A follow-up. If you have not heard back from the hiring manager by the date they stated they would make an offer, write them a note. Write it on your calendar to follow up if you haven't heard back after one week. As soon as the time comes, send a short note.
- The exception. Contact the hiring manager if your situation or portfolio significantly changes between now and the interview date.
- The feedback note. If the interview went well, but you weren't offered the job, you may send one additional note asking for feedback.
Myth 4: A longer interview produces better results
Typically, in-person interviews last between 45 and 90 minutes. But did you know that most hiring decisions are made within the first 90 seconds? That's according to Undercover Recruiter. What's the point of spending 40 minutes on a decision that must be made in 90 seconds?
Alternatively, should we rely on a 90-second impression when making important hiring decisions? Definitely not.
In the end, it comes down to two things:
- Time-wasting, lengthy interviews should be avoided.
- The right questions must be asked before we pass judgment.
However, there is one classic interviewer-interviewee custom that you should hold true. Always have a question ready for the interviewer when they ask you if you have any questions. It shows you have active listening skills and want to fill a curiosity gap.
Myth 5: You should twist your weaknesses into your strengths
It is almost a given that candidates will be asked about their strengths and weaknesses during an interview. This topic can, however, lead to arrogance or insincerity. Oftentimes, hiring managers will observe studied responses that portray a true strength as a weakness. A good example would be to say, "I'm my worst critic."
In his book, business author Russell Reynolds Jr. wrote that honesty is the best policy. And he recommends that you demonstrate self-reflection and your ability to accept constructive criticism.
Related: Getting Stronger Is All About Strengthening Your Weaknesses
Reynolds Jr. also recommends avoiding clichés and generalizations and providing specific examples. "Instead, in the position you're applying for, describe how you could utilize these skills."
How about your weaknesses? "Don't let this weakness keep you from being a great candidate; show the recruiter that you are working on this weakness and tell them how," Reynolds advised.
Myth 6: Your resume explains your work history better than you do
It is important to remember that while your resume gives a good overview of your work history and qualifications, do not assume that it speaks for you. In fact, employers look at resumes for an average of six to seven seconds. So, don't give general, broad answers.
Whenever they ask you, "Why should we hire you?" they look for more than just an explanation, like "I'm the best at what I do." Show them examples demonstrating your achievements and specific skills that will help you succeed at their company.
Myth 7: Keeping your answers short and sweet is always better
In addition to the previous point, many job seekers believe that short interview answers speed up the process. During an interview, a prospective employer isn't just interested in your skills and education but also looks at how you present yourself. For the interviewer, it's important to hear thoughtful, accurate, and relevant responses and observations.
In short, this is your chance to sell yourself, so take advantage of it. Take the time you need.
Myth 8: You will be interviewed by a professional who is experienced and trained in interviewing
You will most likely be interviewing with a manager or coworker, not a human resources professional. That means you can expect the following to be true:
- Training is rarely provided to interviewers.
- It is also common for interviewers to overestimate their abilities.
As a result, interviewers often have favorite questions they believe will reveal an applicant's true character. The company might even ask unexpected or irrelevant questions. Here's the thing, though. These trick questions rarely lead to job success. The best way to leverage these questions to your benefit is to provide concrete, specific details, and examples in your responses — instead of long, generic responses.
Related: How to Interview Your Interviewer
Myth 9: Never talk about money
The hiring manager might ask you to name your salary requirement straightaway. In addition to putting you on the spot, this question can back you into a corner where you can't negotiate. Idealist Careers' program coordinator, Victoria Crispo, told one news outlet that's not necessarily true:
"Whenever a dollar amount is mentioned accidentally, and you regret it," Crispo said.
She added something like the following statement that could be helpful to keeping the conversation smooth:
"My salary range request is based on an in-depth understanding of your needs after speaking with you in person."
To support your claim, she suggests mentioning anything mentioned during the interview, "such as your related experience or working more than 40 hours per week."
Myth 10: You're only allowed to ask questions at the end
Prepare one or two questions that you can ask the interviewer when they ask if you have any questions. But don't stop there. If you have any additional questions — don't hesitate to ask. Additionally, asking questions makes you appear more engaged and reduces your chances of forgetting your question later.
Having a two-way conversation during your interview is always a good idea. Both the employer and the candidate benefit from a job interview. After all, it allows both parties to learn more about each other.
Related: Interviews Are a 2-Way Street: How to Make the Most of Them for Mutual Success
Myth 11: Work must begin immediately
The standard interview question, "When can you start?" sends shivers down an interviewee's spine. The reason? There is fear because they aren't sure how to react. Consequently, another interview myth emerges — if hired, you must start working immediately.
Take courage — it is highly unlikely that you will have to begin your new job tomorrow.
It is common for employers to be familiar with the standard provisions in employment contracts. Because they are familiar with the procedures, the answer to this question interests them. A new employer will not think highly of you if you leave your current position high and dry.
If you are deciding or answering a question, take your time. If you are offered a job, I suggest starting two weeks after receiving the offer. And don't forget that a 48-hour consideration period is acceptable.
