Experts Outline Modern Interview Mistakes That Could Cost Job Seekers

Subtle habits, from carrying an iced coffee to an interview to wearing AirPods in the waiting room, could inadvertently sabotage a job seeker's chances, according to career experts. These seemingly minor details can influence a hiring manager's perception, especially when candidates are otherwise evenly matched.

Will Steward, CEO & Co-founder of The SaaS Jobs, and Michele LaFemina, Clinical Director at Pathways Treatment Center, highlight several modern-day behaviors that may raise red flags for potential employers.

One of the most debated issues is bringing an iced coffee into the interview room. While some view it as a sign of poor time management or an overly casual approach, others believe employers should be more flexible with perceived professional norms. Steward advises against it, suggesting it can make the interview feel too informal before rapport is established and adds an unnecessary item to juggle. LaFemina notes that juggling multiple items like a phone, bag, and coffee while attempting to shake hands can make a candidate appear distracted.

Wearing AirPods or headphones, even to calm nerves, can create a barrier and signal disengagement. LaFemina points out that it can make others feel the candidate is in their own world and will only engage when ready.

Similarly, repeatedly checking a phone for notes can make a candidate seem underprepared or disconnected. Steward suggests using a small notebook instead if notes are essential, as it appears more deliberate than consulting a phone, which could be mistaken for checking messages or searching for answers.

The use of AI or reading from a script, especially in virtual interviews, can result in rehearsed-sounding answers that prevent interviewers from getting a true sense of the candidate's personality. LaFemina warns that unnatural pauses or overly polished sentences can create uncertainty about whether the interviewer is meeting the candidate or a constructed version of them.

For remote interviews, choosing an inappropriate location, such as a noisy café or a bedroom, can suggest a lack of preparation. Steward emphasizes the need for a quiet environment where the interviewer can focus on the candidate, not the surroundings.

While salary and perks are important considerations, making them the sole focus of interview questions can signal a primary interest in compensation over the role itself. LaFemina advises balancing questions about pay with curiosity about the team, expectations, and the job responsibilities.

Other potential pitfalls include wearing AI glasses, which can raise privacy concerns or suspicions of receiving external assistance. Steward strongly advises against this unless an accessibility need has been pre-arranged.

Regarding attire, experts suggest aiming for slightly smarter than the company's everyday dress code. While some workplaces are more relaxed, items like trainers, jeans, or low-cut tops might be too casual for certain professional settings.

Even details like distracting nail art or chipped polish can be noticed, particularly for roles requiring attention to detail. Chewing gum is a universally advised-against habit due to its potential to impair speech and create distracting mouth movements.

Finally, basic hygiene remains crucial. Strong body odor, unwashed hair, or dirty clothing can significantly impact first impressions. While good hygiene is non-negotiable, overly strong fragrances can also be uncomfortable in a small meeting room.