7 Reasons You Didn’t Get the Job

Every job interview will not result in a job offer—a sad but reality-based fact. While we know it will happen, we are left to ponder why? What could I have done differently? These thoughts often spring from a well of disappointment, but thoughtful consideration and examination can result in a better outcome in the future.

Check out these common reasons, shared by hiring managers and recruiters, why a job offer is not extended.

1. Punctuality

Nothing begins an interview on a negative note as much as when the candidate arrives late. Take whatever steps necessary to ensure a timely arrival, including a pre-interview-day drive to the location, allowing fifteen or more additional minutes of drive time, a pre-trip car inspection, etc. Take note of the time of day you will be traveling and take into account rush hour traffic.

2. Inappropriate dress

Appropriate apparel plays a considerable role in that crucial first impression. In most cases, a job interview calls for professional or business attire. (Unless, of course, you are interviewing for the position of senior lifeguard whereby a polo shirt and khaki shorts would be deemed appropriate.) The key is to choose apparel that represents the type of business conducting the interview, as this will demonstrate an understanding of the company.

3. Lack of confidence

While flexibility and an accommodating attitude can rightly be considered positive qualities, too much of this “good thing” can be perceived as a lack of confidence or constant willingness to please. A quick nod in agreement to anything and everything can also come across as desperation—a quality no hiring manager will find endearing.

4. Lack of a great culture fit

Candidates must remember companies aren’t merely looking for someone who can do the job. How, or if, a particular candidate will align with the company’s culture has to be a key consideration. A successful candidate will take the time to delve into the company’s culture prior to the interview and then prioritize demonstrating how he/she would fit into that culture.

5. Unrealistic salary expectations

Who doesn’t want to earn top dollar for his/her unique skillset? But demanding, inflexible, or unrealistic expectations will cause a potential employer to pass. Investigate the salary range for similar positions in your area and, if necessary, adjust your expectations.

6. Lack of prepared questions

Did you research the organization and come prepared with questions to ask? Many candidates find the interview portion where candidates ask the questions to be uncomfortable, and some may even take a pass. Not a good idea! Showing up with no prepared questions will most often be a strike against the candidate.

Check out this LeaderStat post for a list of thirteen questions that demonstrate a candidate’s interest in both the company and the position. Questions such as—

• Where does this job fit within the company’s activities?
• How do you see this position changing in the next few years?
• What is the greatest challenge of this position?

7. Neglecting body language

Hiring managers and recruiters make a point of tuning into a candidate’s body language, noting whether it matches their “talk.” An insistence that one possesses leadership skills will be difficult to believe if the candidate’s body language demonstrates that the interview process nearly undoes him or her. “Of course, I’m open to new ideas,” will be questioned when spoken by a candidate with arms-crossed and a very rigid posture.

Give yourself the best possible chance of receiving a job offer by banishing these common mistakes from your future interview experiences. You've got this!