The Biggest Mistake Job Seekers Make in Interviews: Expert Insights From a 20-Year Hiring Veteran

In today’s competitive job market, the small things can make the biggest difference.

According to Adriane Schwager, CEO and co-founder of GrowthAssistant, a hiring platform, job seekers are missing a crucial step in interviews: preparation.

With two decades of experience in recruiting, Schwager has interviewed thousands of candidates and hired hundreds, yet she is continually surprised by how often people fail to research the companies they want to work for.

The Decline of Interview Preparedness

Schwager points out that this issue has grown significantly over the past five years. “It’s shocking how many candidates don’t do their homework before an interview,” Schwager shared in an interview with CNBC Make It.

“A very basic but critical step that candidates are skipping is understanding what the company does.”

This lack of preparation isn’t just a problem with entry-level applicants. Schwager has seen senior-level professionals make the same mistake, something that was once primarily a concern with fresh graduates.  This preparation gap is particularly concerning in specialized fields like healthcare, where professionals seeking advancement might benefit from targeted programs such as an NHS Consultant interview course to ensure they’re fully prepared for senior-level positions.

Why Is This Happening?

One possible explanation Schwager offers is that candidates coming through third-party recruitment agencies might be less invested in the roles they’re applying for.

“Either they’re not reading the prep provided by the agency, or they weren’t actively seeking the position in the first place,” she explains.

Whatever the reason, Schwager warns that failing to research the company can waste both the interviewer’s and the candidate’s time. Even a small amount of research can make a significant difference.

How to Stand Out in an Interview

Preparation doesn’t need to be time-consuming. Schwager says she’s always impressed when candidates mention something specific about her business or background early in an interview.

“It immediately signals that they are engaged and it sets a positive tone for the conversation,” she says.

Beyond basic research, candidates can elevate their preparation by reaching out to mutual connections for insights about the interviewer.

One of Schwager’s recent leadership hires took the initiative to listen to podcast interviews she had participated in, which left a strong impression on her.

Additionally, she advises job seekers not to shy away from contacting key decision-makers directly.

Some of Schwager’s most enthusiastic hires have reached out to her personally via social media, demonstrating not only their passion for the role but also their thorough understanding of GrowthAssistant’s mission.

A Simple Fix With Big Rewards

Schwager emphasizes that, regardless of experience level, interviewees need to prepare adequately to succeed.

Taking just a few minutes to research the company, familiarize yourself with its goals, and understand its key figures can significantly improve the chances of landing the job.

By showing genuine interest and doing some extra homework, candidates can transform a routine interview into a memorable conversation, potentially giving themselves the edge in today’s competitive market.

Key Takeaways:

• Job-seekers, regardless of experience, must thoroughly research the company before an interview.
• Mentioning specific details about the company or interviewer can start the conversation on a positive note.
• Don’t hesitate to contact higher-ups directly to express your interest.

For candidates hoping to succeed, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up prepared.

Also read: How to Attract and Retain Household Staff in Today’s Competitive Market