4 Job Interview Don'ts

Job interviews are stressful enough without adding self-inflicted wounds into the equation. When you are being peppered with seemingly endless questions about your qualifications and work history, the last thing you want to do is make easily avoidable mistakes.

Not all mistakes are created equal. If you flub a word it is unlikely that you will be disqualified for the job. Other errors, however, can be much more costly. Here are four "don'ts" that you should avoid at all costs if you hope to have a fighting chance at being hired:

• Don't act unprofessionally: You might think you are being honest by calling your last manager a jerk, but the hiring manager will see this more as a personality red flag. A good way to avoid this error is to conduct mock interviews before the big day. Your "interviewer" will be able to alert you to anything you say that could be interpreted as an unprofessional remark or behavior.
• Don't be selfish: Job interviews are ultimately a way for the employer to determine whether you fit their needs. While it is appropriate to ask the hiring manager detailed questions about the position, you could come across as self-centered if you only ask about salary or how much vacation time you will receive.
• Don't dress casually: Coming to the interview dressed in casual attire will give the impression that you are not a serious candidate. Striking the right balance between over-dressed and casual is the key to success.
• Don't lie: Think your white lie about how much you accomplished at your previous job won't be discovered? Think again. All employers conduct thorough background checks of candidates so it's likely you will be caught. Even if you're not, you could be setting yourself up for failure by claiming you can do things for which you are not qualified.