Job interviews are nerve-racking at the best of times. Some people struggle to relax and give calm and collected answers. Others have trouble remaining focused and tend to trail off topic. It’s easy to let your nerves get the best of you.

But did you know there are also a few key mistakes you could be making in an interview without even realizing it? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common interview blunders. The good news is that all of these mistakes are 100 percent fixable with some practice and a little planning.

Writing a Sloppy Cover Letter

Your cover letter is the first thing that a prospective employer sees. It’s your opening statement. Your sales pitch. If your cover letter is vague or full of spelling or grammatical errors, you’ve already made a bad impression before anyone ever reads your resume. Make sure your cover letter is polished, clear, and an excellent representation of who you are.

Speaking Ill of a Past Employer

No matter how you left things at your last job, never badmouth your previous employer in a job interview. While you want to provide an answer to the question, “Why did you leave your last position?” do not come across as negative or combative. Always be professional.

Not Showing Enough Enthusiasm

Employers want to hire candidates who understand their company and seem to have a genuine interest in the position. If you show up to an interview without having done your research, you’re going to come across as disorganized and disinterested. Learn as much as you can about the company before the job interview. Search online and ask around to gather as much information as you can.

You Can’t Sell Your Skills and Experience

The best way to explain why and how you’re qualified for a job is to provide concrete examples. Don’t just say that you possess a certain skill; tell your interviewer about a past experience where you used that particular skill to excel in the workplace.

Ready For a New Job?

If you can master these four things, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of the job interview. Looking for a job in the GTA or Southwestern Ontario? We have offices in Toronto, Newmarket, Milton, and St. Thomas. Reach out to HCR today!