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The 10 Worst Job Interview Mistakes

Even smart people do stupid things sometimes. And when it comes to job interviews, there is definitely no shortage of gaffes and missteps than can not only cause a job seeker to no get hired, but can become the focus of laughter for human resources ...

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Even smart people do stupid things sometimes. And when it comes to job interviews, there is definitely no shortage of gaffes and missteps than can not only cause a job seeker to no get hired, but can become the focus of laughter for human resources professionals and managers.

A recent survey of 2,600 HR pros and hiring managers by job search website Career Builder distinguished the best of the worst interview mistakes:

  • Interrupted an interview to call his wife to ask her if the starting salary was enough
  • Brought childhood toys to the interview
  • Said her hair was perfect when asked why she should become part of the team
  • Bragged about being in the local newspaper for alleged theft
  • Ate a pizza he brought with him
  • Ate crumbs off the table
  • Asked where the nearest bar was located
  • Invited interviewer to dinner afterwards
  • Stated that if the interviewer wanted to get to heaven, she would hire him
  • Asked interviewer why her aura didn’t like her.

The survey also asked what job seeker behavior would make them nearly instantly end an interview. “You’re Not Ever Gonna Be Hired:”

  • Being caught lying: 66%
  • Answering a personal phone call: 64%
  • Appearing arrogant: 59%
  • Dressing inappropriately: 49%
  • Lacking accountability: 48%