In the job search process, an interview is one of the key stages that determines the employer’s decision. It’s your chance to show yourself, but sometimes a single mistake can reduce the chances of getting the desired job — even for a very promising candidate. Here are the common mistakes and how to deal with them:
1. Lack of clear motivation
Often, to the question “Why do you want this position?” candidates reply with something like “I just want any job.” This creates the impression that you are not interested or don’t understand how you can contribute.
Tip: think in advance about why this vacancy interests you — which of your skills and experiences can be useful for the position you’re applying for.
2. Lies or exaggeration in the resume
Applicants sometimes include overstated information about their skills or responsibilities. But during the interview, this can be easily verified — and losing the recruiter’s trust can be fatal.
Tip: be honest. If there are gaps in your experience, it’s easier to explain them directly and show your willingness to learn than to risk being caught in a lie.
3. Not researching the company in advance
If during the interview it becomes clear that the candidate doesn’t know what the company does, what its values are, or what projects it runs, it may look like they don’t care or haven’t taken the preparation seriously.
Tip: before the interview, be sure to check the company’s website, read about it, learn about its products or services, and look for recent news or announcements — this will make the conversation more engaging and show your genuine interest.
4. Having no questions for the employer
When a candidate stays silent in response to “Do you have any questions for us?” it creates the impression that they don’t care — or aren’t taking the vacancy seriously.
Tip: prepare 1–3 questions in advance — for example, about a typical workday, the actual tasks involved, or opportunities for professional growth.
5. Speaking negatively about a previous job
Criticizing a former employer or company may come across as a sign of conflict-proneness. Employers value professionals who can remain composed in difficult situations and highlight the positive lessons learned from their experience.
Tip: if you had negative experiences, mention them delicately — it’s better to explain what you learned, how you overcame challenges, and what you took away from those situations.
Employment Service specialists can help you prepare for your interview: review your resume, help you formulate answers, and practice for the interview. Contact us — we’re here to support you!
Our contacts: https://t1p.de/rzryk.
Call center of the Donetsk Regional Employment Center: 0-800-219-713.