Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when you feel the job perfectly fits your skills and career goals.

The following list includes actions you should avoid and what you should do instead.

Not Being Prepared

It would help if you avoided approaching your interview with a “wing-it” attitude.

Image of a man with his face in his hands beside a white question mark

View the organization’s website, press releases, and social media accounts to research it before the interview.

You should also review your resume and practice potential interview questions.

Have the login details on hand and remove any distractions.

Image of a man looking at a laptop screen

You may be interested in learningtips for a stress-free remote interview.

Dressing Inappropriately

Avoid dressing casually for a job interview.

Regardless of what you choose to wear, ensure the clothes are clean and aren’t wrinkled.

Image of old dirty running shoes

Avoid going on tangents or not answering the interviewer’s question.

give a shot to speak at an average speed and avoid mumbling.

Keep your responses concise, regardless of how friendly or welcoming an interviewer is.

Image of a confused woman

Criticize Past Colleagues and Employers

Many interviewers will ask why you’re considering leaving your current job.

You don’t want to be critical of your current employer or colleagues.

Your responses about current and previous employers should be diplomatic.

Image of laptop with message saying waiting for happiness and sorry. could not load

Potential employers don’t want complainers or disloyal employees.

Stay away from questions you might find the answers to in your research.

You also don’t want to ask questions about paid time off or whether you got the job.

Image of a woman raising her hand for a question

Talking and texting during an interview can be seen by an interviewer as disruptive and rude.

It sends a message to the hiring manager that you don’t consider the discussion a priority.

Your mobile phone isn’t the only thing that may serve as a distraction during your interview.

Image of mobile phone with shut down settings

The good news is that you don’t have to prepare alone!