As an interview coach, witnessing candidates believe in common myths is disheartening.
It can seriously shake anyone’s confidence.
Resulting in missed job opportunities.
Let’s debunk these myths and guide everyone toward a more informed approach to interviews.
So, here are some of the most common myths and their realities:
🔺Myth: Sending a thank-you email is not necessary after an interview.
✅Reality: Sending a thoughtful thank-you note can reinforce your interest, express gratitude, and leave a positive impression.
🔺Myth: Networking is only beneficial before applying for a job.
✅Reality: Networking continues to be valuable throughout your career; it’s not just about landing the initial job.
🔺Myth: Job interviews are only about the employer evaluating the candidate.
✅Reality: Interviews are a two-way street; use the opportunity to assess if the company aligns with your career goals and values.
🔺Myth: Negotiating salary is a taboo topic during the interview process.
✅Reality: Discussing salary shows professionalism and ensures both parties are on the same page before making commitments.
🔺Myth: It’s best to conceal any gaps in employment history.
✅Reality: Addressing employment gaps honestly and explaining what you learned during those periods can demonstrate resilience and honesty.
🔺Myth: I should memorize my answers word-for-word.
✅Reality: Memorizing responses can make you sound robotic; focus on understanding key points instead.
🔺Myth: Talking about weaknesses will hurt my chances.
✅Reality: Addressing weaknesses with solutions demonstrates self-awareness and a growth mindset.
🔺Myth: Online presence doesn’t matter as much as the interview itself.
✅Reality: Employers often research candidates online, so maintain a professional digital presence on platforms like LinkedIn.